Of Māori, Samoan and Tokelauan heritage, Elisapeta Heta has been awarded the New Zealand Institute of Architects (NZIA) President’s Award for 2022. The award reflects Elisapeta’s influence as a changemaker and cultural leader in indigenous design in New Zealand and internationally.
The President’s Award acknowledges those who give freely of their time and energy to advance the concerns of the architectural profession and the community upon which Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architecture is built.
NZIA President, Judi Keith-Brown says, “Elisapeta has contributed tirelessly to the Institute.”
Elisapeta is the Principal – Kaihautū Whaihanga – Māori Design Leader Architecture at Jasmax a third-generation architecture and design practice in New Zealand. Jasmax has more than fifty years experience in the industry and is described as being at the forefront of bicultural and sustainable design in the Pacific.
Known as an advocate for change, Elisapeta has spoken on the international stage to provide Māori and Pasifika perspectives on the importance of place to design and cultural identity.
She has contributed to cultural design outcomes for nation-defining projects, including Tāmaki Makaurau’s City Rail Link, the New Zealand Pavilion at Expo 2020 in Dubai, and was also named Emerging Design Professional at the 2021 Interior Awards.
