Strong, enduring and rooted in Aotearoa — like the tree we are named for
Our story
Tōtara Institute began in 1971 as a Wellington study group: a handful of architects, engineers and surveyors who met monthly to talk through the lessons of the latest earthquake reports. By 1989 it had become a national body, and today it supports more than 3,000 members through twelve branches from Kaitāia to Invercargill.
We took our name from the tōtara, the native timber prized for its strength and durability. It is a reminder that the best buildings, and the best professions, are built to last.
Our purpose
We exist to raise the standard of practice across the built environment, so that the homes, workplaces, streets and infrastructure of Aotearoa are safe, healthy and fit for the future. We do that by setting expectations for continuing professional development, bringing the disciplines together, and speaking up for good design and sound regulation.
What guides us
Manaakitanga
We look after our members, the communities they design for, and each other.
Kaitiakitanga
We take seriously our responsibility to the land, the climate and the generations who will inherit what we build.
Integrity
Independent, evidence-based advice, and professional conduct our members and the public can rely on.
Lifelong learning
Practice keeps changing. We help members keep pace, from graduate to fellow.
Governance
The Institute is an incorporated society governed by a Council of nine members, elected by the membership for three-year terms. Council sets strategy and appoints the Chief Executive, who leads a small national office in Wellington.
Our annual general meeting is held each year alongside the conference, and every financial member has a vote.
President Mere Hutchings (planner, Tauranga), Vice-President Daniel Okafor (structural engineer, Christchurch), and seven elected councillors drawn from every discipline and region.
Twelve volunteer-led branches run local CPD evenings, site visits and social events. Your branch is set by the address on your membership record.
Standing committees cover professional development, policy and submissions, emerging professionals, and the annual conference.
Our constitution, code of ethics and annual reports are available to members on request from the national office.
Get in touch
National office
Level 3, 1 Example Street
Te Aro, Wellington 6011
Aotearoa New Zealand
Open Monday to Friday, 8.30 am to 5 pm.