Our People
Architect
Directors
Francis Whitaker
REGISTERED ARCHITECT
B. ARCH, FNZIA
fwhitaker@masonandwales.com
+64 21 620 747
Francis Whitaker graduated from the School of Architecture at the University of Auckland in 1977 and, after gaining overseas experience, joined Mason & Wales in 1983.
Francis is a passionate and talented architect who displays exceptional originality and creativity in the design of a wide range of building types, which are designed for the enjoyment of building users and communities, and to be timeless and enduring.
His masterful drawings bring projects to life early in the design process, which allow for engagement and encourages interaction and contributions from clients and stakeholders, to underpin the viability of projects
Francis is involved in all facets of architectural design, including master planning and urban design, planning and design of buildings for small towns, subdivisions, commercial developments and resort environments, as well as numerous houses.
He has received numerous New Zealand Institute of Architects Awards for Architecture and Master Builders Awards, including three Supreme Awards.
Hamish M. Muir
REGISTERED ARCHITECT
B. ARCH (Hons), FNZIA
hmuir@masonandwales.com
+64 21 704 263
Hamish M. Muir is a third generation Otago Architect, who is proud to be leading New Zealand’s first architectural practice.
With over 20 years professional experience, he has been responsible for a wide range of project types and sizes, for discerning clients of all types throughout New Zealand, and overseas.
He enjoys being personally involved with projects from concept to completion, and encourages a collaborative and integrated approach to all stages of the architectural process, with clients, contractors and consultants alike.
Hamish has been recognised by various awards and publications for his built work including world leading sustainable design and high quality houses, and in 2024 was recognised as a Fellow Member in 2024 by the New Zealand Institute of Architects, for his high standing in the profession, degree of eminence, and service to the Institute.
Hamish is dedicated to the practice of architecture, with a vision to enrich people’s lives and make a positive contribution to both built and natural environments.
Architect
Associates
Matthew Barbour
REGISTERED ARCHITECT
B. ARCH (Hons), ANZIA
Matt grew up in the rural North Island, and graduated from Victoria University, before joining Mason & Wales in 2007.
Due to his attention to detail in design and documentation as well as office processes and systems, he is an invaluable member of the team.
Involved in projects from initial briefing, through concept design and to completion, Matt is adept at both freehand drawing as well as CAD, which enables him to enrich the craft of architecture.
Matt is involved with a wide range of projects across the office and around New Zealand, and has been responsible for the delivery of some of the more progressive projects in the firms recent history.
Ruth Whitaker
REGISTERED ARCHITECT
M. ARCH, ANZIA
Ruth is a second generation architect, who graduated from The University of Melbourne in 2010, and worked in Australia before returning to Mason & Wales in 2012.
A composed and talented designer who is particularly skilled in freehand drawing to communicate and develop ideas to reality, from large-scale planning studies to small and intimate interior details.
Ruth is involved with projects from conception through to completion, and has successfully delivered many high quality, and award-winning projects whilst fostering valuable client relationships.
Team
Zachary Blue
REGISTERED ARCHITECT
M. ARCH (Prof), BAS, ANZIA
Louis Deverson
REGISTERED ARCHITECT
B. ARCH (Hons), ANZIA
Luke Melhop
REGISTERED ARCHITECT
M. ARCH (Prof), BAS, ANZIA
C. Ashley Muir
ARCHITECT
B. ARCH, FNZIA
Karl Sasse
SENIOR ARCHITECTURAL TECHNICIAN
NAT CERT ARCH TECH
Peter Tucker
TECHNICAL LEADER
NAT DIP ARCH TECH
Chris Sharp
TECHNICAL LEADER
NAT DIP ARCH TECH
Simon Warden
ARCHITECTURAL GRADUATE
M. ARCH (Prof), BAS
Sean Marr
SENIOR ARCHITECTURAL TECHNICIAN
NAT DIP ARCH TECH
Trish Stace
ARCHITECTURAL TECHNICIAN
NAT DIP ARCH TECH & NZ DIP ARCH DRAFTING
Tukiteraki Bull
ARCHITECTURAL TECHNICIAN INTERN
Nicki Swift
OFFICE MANAGER
Hilda Lowery
OFFICE MANAGER
Careers
Mason & Wales Architects are considering applications from people with relevant experience and the right attitude, who are seeking long-term career opportunities in Dunedin and can hit the ground running.
Candidates who are New Zealand residents, are welcome to express interest with a CV and portfolio of work, by visiting the Dunedin office in person or via email.