Our structure
Governance of the Institute is undertaken by the Institute Board, led by an elected President, which meets four times a year.
In its decision making, the Board is guided by a set of rules that define objectives and help decide matters of importance. The Board's composition is determined by election, with Institute members in each of the eight branches voting for a regional representative. The five schools of architecture and the New Zealand Registered Architects Board are also represented.
President
James Blackburne, FNZIA, Architect
James Blackburne was announced President Elect of Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects in 2025 and assumed his role as President in June 2026.
Hailing from Tairāwhiti Gisborne and a director of Architects 44, Blackburne is widely respected for his contributions to architecture, heritage conservation and professional leadership. He succeeds Huia Reriti, who has served as the Institute’s Perehitini (President) since 2024.
A longstanding Institute member and appointed a Fellow in 2005, Blackburne has contributed to a range of governance and advocacy initiatives. Alongside his architectural practice, he has played a significant role in heritage protection through his involvement with Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga and Historic Places Aotearoa, reflecting a longstanding commitment to preserving and celebrating New Zealand’s built heritage.
James’ Presidency of Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects is a two-year term.
Current Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects Board
President: James Blackburne (until June 2028)
Auckland Board Member: Michael Thomson (second term to June 2027)
Waikato & Bay of Plenty Board Member: Evan Mayo (second term to June 2029)
Gisborne & Hawke's Bay Board Member: Chris Ainsworth (second term to June 2029)
Western Board Member: Elinor Harvey McDouall (first term to June 2029)
Wellington Board Member: Julie Stewart (first term to June 2028)
Nelson & Marlborough Board Member: Magdalena Garbarczyk (first term to June 2029)
Canterbury Board Member: William Fulton (first term to June 2029)
Southern Board Member: Tim Ross (second term to June 2028)
Co-Opted Emerge Representative: Charlotte Dunning (first term to 2028)
Ngā Aho Representative: Samantha McGavock (first term to June 2026)
Policies set by the Board fit broadly into the following areas: practice support, membership services and professional development. Members assist with work in these areas to ensure that all members are kept up to date with developments and services.
The network of eight branches throughout the country provides a place for local membership services and activities and a connection with local communities. They also help members stay connected with current issues and provide local support to the profession.
Each Branch has a committee, led by a Chairperson elected from the local membership.
Current Branch Chairs
Auckland: Clair Nicholls
Waikato & Bay of Plenty: Daniel Smith
Gisborne & Hawke's Bay: Marie Fleming
Western: Jono Murdoch
Wellington: Tina Williams
Nelson & Marlborough: Nick Burn
Canterbury: Daniel Sullivan
Southern: Shana Payne
Our Structure
The Institute Board
Members nationwide elect representatives to Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects Board. Policies set by council fit broadly into the following areas: practice support, membership services and professional development. A network of eight branches throughout the country provides a local focus for members, who use their branch as an avenue for involvement in the Institute’s activities. The day-to-day work of the Institute is undertaken by a small team of professionals led by a chief executive.
