Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects (NZIA) and the award-winning Tim & Kev's Big Design Adventure podcast are delighted to announce a new collaboration that celebrates the people, places and ideas shaping great architecture and design.

Hosted by Australian broadcaster and comedian Tim Ross and Grand Designs presenter Kevin McCloud, Tim & Kev's Big Design Adventure podcast has become a popular architecture and design podcast, taking listeners inside remarkable buildings, meeting the people who create them, and exploring why good design matters.

The partnership reflects a shared commitment between the NZIA along with Tim and Kevin to champion the value of thoughtful architecture, inspire curiosity about the built environment, and encourage conversations about how great design enriches our communities and everyday lives.

Series 1 and 2 host over 30 episodes of intriguing and insightful conversations, including an episode with Frances Martin, granddaughter of legendary New Zealand ceramicists Bruce and Estelle Martin, who lives in their John Scott designed home in Hawkes Bay (Series 1, Episode 9).

Following its recognition as one of Apple Podcasts ANZ Best of 2025, Tim & Kev's Big Design Adventure has returned with Series 3, releasing brand-new episodes every week.

Last week's special episode uncovered a previously unheard archive conversation between Tim Ross and acclaimed New Zealand actor Sam Neill, revealing a lifelong passion for architecture that shaped his view of the world.

In the episode, Sam reflects on the buildings that first inspired him while studying in Christchurch, including the influential work of modernist architects Sir Miles Warren and Peter Beaven, and discusses the legacy of Sir Ian Athfield, and the evolution of New Zealand architecture. He also shares his thoughts on designing his own homes, the importance of collaboration between architects and clients, and why thoughtful architecture enriches the way we live.

Alongside these design conversations, Sam reflects on his remarkable acting career, his connection to New Zealand's landscapes, and the parallels between filmmaking, architecture and winemaking—making this a rare and deeply personal conversation that celebrates creativity, place and the enduring influence of great design.

"We're thrilled to be partnering with the New Zealand Institute of Architects," said Tim Ross. "We've always believed that good design deserves a bigger audience, and we're excited to continue sharing stories that celebrate the buildings, people and ideas that shape our lives."

Listeners can hear Tim & Kev's Big Design Adventure on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms, or stream episodes directly at bigdesignadventure.com.

Listen now:

Website: bigdesignadventure.com

Apple Podcasts, Spotify and all major podcast platforms.