Architect
Work environment
- Usually work regular business hours
- Usually work in offices but may travel to visit construction sites or clients
- May work outside in hazardous conditions
- Need to be accurate, creative and solve problems
Salary information
Typical tasks
- Create designs and plans for buildings
- Discuss design ideas with clients
- Do building site inspections
- Advise on building processes and costs
- Apply for building and resource consents
- Oversee architectural projects
- Plan interior and exterior spaces
- Prepare contracts
- Ensure plans meet building regulations
Outlook
The architecture industry in New Zealand is influenced by wider construction trends, with demand softening after a recent building boom but showing signs of cautious recovery. Firms are adapting by diversifying projects and adopting digital tools like BIM to improve efficiency. Sustainability is a major driver, with growing focus on low‑carbon design and energy‑efficient buildings, reflecting global moves towards net‑zero construction and smarter, technology-enabled design.
What employers and industry want in graduates
- Creative thinking and strong design skills
- Good technical knowledge, including digital design tools
- Problem-solving and attention to detail
- Clear communication and teamwork skills
- Understanding of sustainable and environmentally responsible design
- Ability to manage time, budgets and project requirements
Professional registration
New Zealand Registered Architects Board
04 471 1336
AUT programmes
The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.
Further study options
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