About Us
Design and Practical Experience with Sustainable Focus.
At Taiao Architecture & Engineering, we’re driven by a passion for innovative design, sustainable solutions, and a commitment to creating spaces that work with New Zealand’s natural environment. We strive to be more than an architecture and engineering firm, every aspect of our work reflects our values and our vision for a better, more sustainable future.
Our Vision
We see a future of infrastructure that meets human needs while working in harmony with the natural world - sustaining, regenerating, and restoring.
Our Values
We prioritise people, sustainability, and innovation. Guided by creativity and professionalism, we are experts in durable,Te Taiao designs that balance function, aesthetics, and environmental responsibility.
Milestones and Achievements
Since our founding in 2020, Taiao has achieved a number of important milestones.
Who We Work With
We collaborate with a wide range of clients, professionals, and organisations across New Zealand. Whether you're a homeowner building your dream home or a developer working on a multi-lot subdivision, Taiao offers flexible, sustainable, and technically robust support every step of the way.
Our collaborators include:
Architects seeking a structural partner who understands architectural form.
Builders and construction companies who need clear, buildable designs.
Project managers and developers looking for end-to-end engineering oversight.
Homeowners and renovators bringing their vision to life.
Commercial property owners needing structural assessments and upgrades.
Our integrated team of engineers and designers ensures clear communication, streamlined delivery, and aligned outcomes across all project types.
Collaborating with Architects
Engineering Solutions That Support Architectural Vision
At Taiao, we understand the importance of architectural integrity - because we’re architectural designers too. That’s why we love partnering with fellow architects to bring creative, sustainable designs to life without compromising on vision or practicality.
Whether you need input on detailing, structural calculations, or a full design-and-engineering collaboration, we work flexibly and respectfully to support your design goals. We know how challenging it can be to prioritise sustainability within the realities of buildability, compliance, and cost. That’s why we focus on practical, collaborative solutions - not roadblocks.
Why architects enjoy working with Taiao:
A shared design language and appreciation for detail.
Integrated architectural, structural, civil, and geotechnical expertise.
A commitment to sustainable design principles.
Clear, open communication from start to finish.
Flexible support tailored to your workflow.
If you’re an architect looking for a collaborative partner who respects your vision and understands the design process, we’d love to connect.
Meet the Team
Dylan Kaufman
Dylan brings a unique combination of structural, civil, and architectural design engineering, underpinned by a deep passion for ecological architecture and regenerative design. He holds a BE (Hons) (Civil) from the University of Canterbury and blends his technical skill with holistic training in mind-body (somatic) coaching, yoga, qigong, massage, and creative arts therapy.
Dylan’s work is rooted in a philosophy of holistic wellness - both for people and for the planet. He specialises in modern earth buildings that harness nature-based solutions and elemental forces. His projects are known for being innovative, energy-efficient, and thoughtfully integrated into their natural context.
Nev Wilson
Nev studied civil engineering at the University of Canterbury, gaining experience in structural, civil, geotechnical, and coastal engineering. After years in the field — and exploring New Zealand’s wild landscapes - Nev founded Taiao with a desire to integrate his technical skillset with a deeper commitment to sustainable, nature-connected design.
With nearly 20 years of experience, Nev specialises in rammed earth builds and thrives in collaborative projects that blend architectural creativity with environmental responsibility.
Jamie Nguyen
Jamie holds a Bachelor of Civil and Environmental Engineering (Hons) from the University of Auckland and is a Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) with specialist expertise in multi-storey buildings and retaining structures.
With 8 years of experience in seismic design and complex, high-value projects exceeding $500 million, Jamie brings outstanding foresight, practical buildability insight, and deep familiarity with NZ building code compliance. His combined project management ability and client communication skills make him a reliable consultant from RFP through to PS4 sign-off.
Our Process
From Vision to Completion - Seamless, Collaborative, and Built to Last.
At Taiao Architecture and Engineering, our process brings together architects, designers, and engineers under one roof to deliver cohesive, sustainable solutions. Whether you're building a home, developing land, or needing technical reports, we guide you through each stage with clarity and care.
Let’s Build Something Sustainable Together
Looking for a design and engineering partner who understands sustainability, collaboration, and innovation? Whether you're planning a residential build, a commercial development, or a unique architectural project, Taiao brings expertise and passion to every stage of your journey.
Get in touch today and discover how we can help bring your vision to life - naturally.
