New Zealand Diploma in Architectural Technology (Level 6)

Jeremiah Gauniqio - Architectural Technology

“Since I was a kid I’ve always liked drawing buildings and then through high school I started getting into construction. I was born in Fiji, came to New Zealand in 2011 and finished high school here. I looked at studying architecture in Auckland but my brother and sister had both been to NorthTec so I found out about the course here.”

“Working with Archi-CAD is the thing I love most about the course but it is also the most challenging thing for me. I thought architecture would all about drawing but it’s mostly computerised and CAD is a challenge to learn. I’m surprised at how much is involved in architecture technology apart from design and construction. We visited the council a few weeks back to learn about how to register a building and there’s lot to learn about regulations and procedure. I enjoy processing all that information, but I have my days.”

“The tutors explain everything fully, and I’m the youngest in our class so I also have the advantage of learning from students who have construction or other related work experience. In return I can help them with some of the current trends.”

“When I get my diploma I want to work with an architect to see how they work and to get experience. I may on go to study a degree architecture but for now I’m keeping my options open.”

Nan Zhang - Architectural Technology

“I decided to do this course because of the TV show Fixer upper. I’ve studied other things in the 10 years I’ve been living in New Zealand and I’ve been working as a chef, but studying architectural technology means I can get into business flipping houses with my wife.”

“I especially love the CAD and the modern technology that we use. It’s fast and the results look really professional. The architectural language is a bit of a challenge for me, because even though I’ve lived here for 10 years, it’s a specific language of its own. And the course is more complex and detailed than I realised from reading the brochure online.”

“However, the students and tutors are great and really friendly. We’re quite a mix of ages and experience and some of the students have a building background and are helpful in sharing their knowledge.”

“Getting this qualification will open the door for me to get into business. I will have knowledge on house design and construction, and the regulations and compliances that relate to that. First I will get a job to get some experience and some money, then my dream is to be in the business of house renovation (or flipping) with my wife. She has her own additional interest in tiny houses so there are also possibilities there.”

Damian Manahi - Architectural Technology

“I had been working as a builder but got injured last year so decided it was time to change. By extending into design, I can still draw if I get hurt.”

“I love designing and this course is helping me understand why we do what we do when we’re building. It’s extending my horizons of what’s possible. I would tell anyone now to push your limits.”

“Working out all the detail for the working drawings is a stretch for me, but it’s interesting because we have to explore options within council restrictions, and choose the right materials. We touch on everything from water flow, corrosion, types of soil, as well as the expected building subjects.”

“Our class is a good little unit with a range of different skills, plus we get help from the year 2 students.”

“My main goal is to design and build my own buildings and sell them. It’s something I can take anywhere in New Zealand. My first step when I finish the course though will be to find work in the industry.”

Duaine Thompson - Architectural Technology

“By coming here straight from school I’ve put myself in a position where I’m forced to either bend or break. I’m amazed and how fast and intensive my learning is and I’m loving it.”

“As a kid my favourite toy was a transformer. It could become something else. I loved finding ways to improve and re-think things, and I’ve been told I have a keen eye for creativity and design. My sister advised me to come here and that decision has breathed life into my path. It has connected a lot of dots. Saying yes to things has really helped me move forward.”

“By stretching to learn new things, it’s incredible how it affects every aspect of your life. If say, I’m really engaged and learning in class, it lifts my table tennis game in my youth mentor role.”

“The hardest part is to start. It’s far harder to start than to continue. You have to have the mind-set to evolve and open yourself to new learning. Your body then does what your mind says.”

“I love the intensity of this course. I also like how one tutor emphasizes how to be professional in this field and the other one focuses on how to develop yourself in architecture and in your life. It’s helped me create my own aspirations for being here.”

“From the foundation of doing this course, I’m going to study at the Sydney School of Architecture because my sister lives there and because it’s a complete change of scene. I want to get my PhD in Architecture and by doing so, to become the youngest Maori PhD Architect in the world.”

“I’m looking forward to that journey and I hope the ripples from that will inspire any kid with a dream. I’m the Youth Representative for NorthTec and I’m in the process of organizing a Youth Summit. This is my work. If people want to move forward, I’ll help you with your aspiration.”

Joey Waddell - Architectural Technology

“One of the key reasons for coming here is the tutors. They are real, they’re knowledgeable and experienced, and they treat us like peers. They really encourage us to push beyond our own limits and to expand enough to take in new learning and experiences. I did Business Admin here last year and enjoyed the vibe and the level of motivation so much that I decided to start on this architectural journey.”

“I’m amazed at how big the architectural industry is. As well as the obvious house design, we’re learning about landscapes, council by-laws, business law, specs, materials, building components and measurements. It’s a whole new language and with it we’re learning where to find the info what we need.”

“I want to get a job in the commercial architectural world working with others when I finish the course. It will give me some on-the-ground-experience before then going on to study architecture at university.”

“It’s too soon to know what I might specialize in but at the moment I’m keen on designing houses that get the most out of their environment and their space.  This includes functionality, views and energy use."