We have answered the most common questions below. If you do not find what you are looking for, give us a call or send us an email and we will get back to you promptly.
General
What is the difference between a licensed architectural designer and a registered architect?
Licensed architectural designers and registered architects both design buildings, but they have different qualifications and registration bodies. In New Zealand, licensed architectural designers are Licensed Building Practitioners regulated by MBIE. We are fully qualified to design residential homes and light commercial buildings. For most homeowners, a licensed designer provides the same quality of outcome at a more accessible price.
Are you LBP licensed?
Yes. We are Licensed Building Practitioners in the Design and Drafting category, regulated by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. This means we are accountable professionals operating under the Building Act 2004.
How long have you been in business?
Architech Designs was established in 2012 and we have over 25 years of combined industry experience in residential and light commercial design across Auckland and New Zealand.
Where are you based?
We are based in Blockhouse Bay, Auckland. We work on-site across Auckland, the Franklin District, and Waikato, and offer remote design services to clients throughout New Zealand.
Our Process
How does your process work?
We start with a free consultation to understand your project, site, and budget. From there we develop a concept design and 3D model, refine it based on your feedback, produce full working drawings, and then lodge and manage your consent with council. You are involved and informed at every step.
What is included in the free consultation?
The free consultation covers a full discussion of your project goals, site constraints, budget, and timeline. If needed we can also visit your site. There is no charge and no obligation to proceed.
How long does a project take from start to consent?
This varies depending on the complexity of the project. A straightforward new home build might take three to five months from initial consultation to consent approval. More complex projects or those requiring resource consent can take longer. We give you a realistic timeline at the outset.
Do you manage the consent process with council?
Yes. We prepare and lodge the full application with Auckland Council and actively manage it through the process. If council requests additional information or clarification we handle it promptly on your behalf.
Consents
What is the difference between a building consent and a resource consent?
A building consent confirms that your building work complies with the New Zealand Building Code. A resource consent is required when your project does not comply with the rules in the district plan, such as height limits, site coverage, or setback requirements. Many projects only require a building consent, but some require both.
How long does building consent take in Auckland?
Auckland Council has a statutory timeframe of 20 working days to grant building consent once a complete application is lodged. In practice it can take longer if the application is incomplete or if council raises queries. We prepare thorough applications to minimise delays.
Can you help with resource consent applications?
Yes. We specialise in resource consent applications including non-complying and discretionary activities. We prepare all required documentation and manage the application through council on your behalf.
What is a Certification of Acceptance?
A Certificate of Acceptance is issued by council for work that has already been completed without a building consent. It provides some level of recognition that the work has been inspected and meets minimum standards. We can advise whether this option is appropriate for your situation.
Services and Pricing
What types of projects do you work on?
We work on new home builds, extensions and additions, renovations, subdivision design, residential heritage design, and light commercial projects. We also handle consent applications for existing buildings and work carried out without consent.
How much does it cost?
Our fees vary depending on the scope and complexity of your project. We provide a fixed price quote after the initial consultation so you know exactly what to expect before we start. The consultation itself is always free.
Do you offer 3D design and visualisation?
Yes. We produce 3D models and visual presentations as part of our concept design phase. These help you understand exactly how your finished home or project will look before any work begins.
Can you help with subdivisions?
Yes. We design and document subdivision layouts and manage the associated resource consent process. We work with surveyors and other consultants as needed to get your subdivision across the line.
Auckland City
North, South, East and West Auckland — our primary service area.
Franklin District
Pukekohe, Waiuku and surrounding Franklin areas.
Waikato
Hamilton and surrounding Waikato region.
Nationwide NZ
Remote design services across all of New Zealand.
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