Without registration, you won’t be able to call yourself an architect and you won’t get much say in the way you work, let alone where the profession is heading. Registration also gives you the opportunity to work overseas as an architect, or to start your own practice.

Whether you have just graduated or have been working for a while, the NZIA encourages you to become a Registered Architect. The NZIA APL Registration Programme is a resource tailored to aid you along the pathway to registration.

The programme is led by architects from leading New Zealand practices and you'll receive the benefit of their valuable knowledge and experience. To be eligible for the registration programme, you need to be a Graduate Member of the NZIA.

The NZIA especially values its architecture graduate members. Graduates are the future of the profession and the NZIA wants your future to be successful, purposeful and fulfilling.

Who is eligible?

The process and assessment procedure for registration is set down by the New Zealand Registered Architects Board (NZRAB).

To be eligible for registration, applicants must apply under NZRAB criteria called ‘pathways’. There are three pathways. Pathway 1 is for applicants who have not yet been registered. Pathway 2 is for applicants who have previously been registered. Pathway 3 is for applicants who are APEC architects from Japan, Singapore and Canada.

Full pathway details can be viewed on the NZRAB website.

The majority of registrations in New Zealand fall under Pathway 1. Before undertaking registration, applicants in this category must complete two to three years of practical work experience. Prior to registration, it is expected applicants will have experience in all phases of an architectural project and be able to demonstrate competence throughout. They will also require a sound knowledge of legal and contractual issues related to the practice of architecture.

The NZIA APL Registration Programme is comprised of workshops and seminars which are presented by leading New Zealand architects and representatives of the NZRAB. It’s a collegial exercise that provides a way for those undertaking registration to share notes, network and form study groups. It is a valuable step on the path to registration.