Background Information
Why should a person be a Registered Architect?
Use of the title 'architect' and 'registered architect' is protected by law. No person who offers building design services can call themselves an architect or registered architect without being currently registered with NZRAB. If they do, then they are breaking the law.
There are other people who design buildings who may be Licensed Building Practitioners however, they are known as architectural designers, not architects.
Registration is more than a title; it signifies professionalism and a commitment to ethical practice and ongoing professional development. It provides assurance that the architect has demonstrated the competence, knowledge and experience required for registration and is accountable to the profession’s statutory regulator.
Who can become a Registered Architect in New Zealand?
To apply for registration an applicant:
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may have a recognised architectural degree and significant architectural work experience
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may not have a recognised architectural degree, but have other architectural qualifications and/or extensive architectural experience
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may be an architect registered in an overseas jurisdiction.
How do I apply to be a Registered Architect?
To accommodate different types of applicants NZRAB has eight different pathways to registration. These can be found on the 'To Apply' button, under 'Initial Registration' here.
Each pathway has specific criteria which must be met before an application can be submitted. To find out more specific detail, click on the 'To Apply' button and read the specific requirements for each pathway.
What are Project Record Forms?
Pathways 1 and 2 require Project Record Forms (PRFs) to be completed and included with the application documentation. If you are eligible to apply via either pathway 1 or 2, it is a good idea to fill out the PRFs while working towards registration.
The PRFs are available to download, click on the 'Project Record Forms' button under 'Initial Registration' here.
Further Advice
For advice on registration procedures, please email registration@nzrab.org.nz.