He will be remembered as one of New Zealand’s most distinguished architects—a visionary of built form whose work has shaped cities, celebrated heritage, and enriched communities across Aotearoa.

Born in Christchurch and raised in the seaside suburb of Sumner, Cheshire overcame early adversity, having been born without the lower half of his right leg, yet found freedom and resilience in the ocean and the surf. His early life reflected a spirit of curiosity and resolve that would come to define a remarkable architectural career.

Pip Cheshire, FNZIA, CNZM. Photo: Jane Ussher 

After studying political science at the University of Canterbury, he pursued architecture at the University of Auckland starting in 1976. Even as a student, his talent was unmistakable—his design for Auckland’s The Melba restaurant heralded a career that would span decades and typologies.

In 1984, he co-founded Bossley Cheshire Architects with Pete Bossley, and five years later played a pivotal role in the formation of Jasmax, New Zealand’s largest architectural firm. Through Jasmax and later his own practice, Cheshire Architects, he brought to life projects that married intellectual rigour with civic purpose. From the award-winning redevelopment of the University of Auckland’s Leigh Marine Laboratory to the invigorating transformation of the Britomart precinct in downtown Auckland, his work contributed enduring spaces that balance history, innovation, and human experience.

His role in the design team for the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa further demonstrated his breadth and cultural sensitivity, while his voluntary work documenting Antarctic heritage huts in the Ross Sea revealed a deep respect for history and the environment.

Beyond buildings, Pip’s influence extended to the profession itself.

He was Chair of the NZIA Auckland Branch from 1998 to 2000, made a Fellow of the Institute in 2007, and later served as its President from 2014 to 2016. In that role, he championed inclusivity through the development of Te Kawenata o Rata, the covenant between the Institute and Ngā Aho that formalises an ongoing relationship of co-operation. He also served as Adjunct Professor at the University of Auckland from 2003 to 2008, mentoring aspiring architects with his characteristic intellect and generosity.

In 2013, Pip received the NZIA Gold Medal in acknowledgement of a career “propelled by a confluence of admirable personal and professional qualities: courage, adventurousness, curiosity, enthusiasm and persistence.”

In 2024, he was made a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to architecture and commitment to the betterment of New Zealand’s built environment.

Pip’s legacy is one of creativity, stewardship, and profound contribution to the fabric of New Zealand’s built environment—an enduring testament to the power of architecture to shape our shared world.

He was a devoted husband and father and will be missed by the many friends and colleagues who were fortunate to have known him.

Information about funeral or memorial arrangements will be shared as it becomes available.

In 2013 the Institute made a short film to celebrate Pip Cheshire's Gold Medal. Watch below.