Rangitahi Kawe

I was born and raised in Tauranga Moana and have strong Iwi affiliations to Ngāti Ranginui, Ngāti Maniapoto and Ngāpuhi, through my father, and Ngāti Porou and Ngāti Kahungunu on my mother’s side. I am deeply connected to my whakapapa, and have a commitment to bring my culture, experience, and skills to the work I do.

My previous experience includes residential development, playground design, stream restoration, and a cultural design advisor. I bring a wide range of technical skills and expertise that explores my interest in urban development, infrastructure development, Nga Aro Tākaro / Traditional Māori Play design and community design projects.

Recently, my work on Karaka Pines Retirement Village, Te Āhuru Mōwai Playground and O Mahurangi / Penlink road development has allowed me to develop skills in leading a team, consultant coordination and engagement through key stakeholder groups including Mana Whenua. I approach design with a strong commitment to foster the best project outcomes, creating and enriching quality spaces for people to enjoy. I plan to continue my work with the inclusion of mātauranga Māori and to continue exploring and expanding on traditional cultural methodologies within practice and the wider field of landscape architecture.

Qualifications

Master of Landscape Architecture, Victoria University of Wellington, 2014
Bachelor of Architectural Studies, Majoring in Landscape Architecture, Victoria University of Wellington, 2011

Affiliations

Registered Member, New Zealand Institute of Landscape Architects (NZILA)
Pae Tahi Member, Ngā Aho Māori Design Professionals
Member, Te Tau-a-Nuku Māori Landscape Architect Professionals