Here’s a guide to key events in Tāmaki Makaurau that graduates won’t want to miss:

Frances Kéré, Futuna Lecture Series 2025
Sunday 14 September, from 6:30pm to 8:15pm | St Mary’s-in-Holy Trinity Cathedral, Parnell, Auckland.

The festival opens with the renowned Futuna Lecture Series, featuring Pritzker Prize-winning architect Francis Kéré from Gando, Burkina Faso. Celebrated for his socially responsible and community focused architecture, Kéré’s human-centred approach underscores the transformative power of design. Utilising local materials, traditional techniques and engaging communities in the process, his projects address complex social, cultural and environmental challenges. For graduates, this lecture probes reflection on the kind of contribution we hope to make to the profession, and consider lessons that can be applied here in Aotearoa.

Sarah Allan, UK Government’s Chief Architect Lecture
Wednesday 17 September, from 6:00pm | Neon Theatre, University of Auckland, Auckland.

Sarah Allan, the UK Government’s Chief Architect and Head of Architecture and Urban Design within the Chief Planner’s Directorate, will discuss how architecture and planning intersect with policy and governance to shape design outcomes across housing, infrastructure and culture at both local and national scales. For graduates, this lecture extends learning beyond the studio, revealing the interplay between policy and design, and the broader forces that influence architecture. This will stand us in good stead to navigate the realities of the industry, encourage critical thinking about the role of architecture in shaping cities and communities, while offering perspective on career paths outside private practice.

Open Studio
Saturday 20th September, from 10:00am to 2:00pm | See NZIA website for participating studios and their locations.

Open Studio is consistently a festival highlight - and for good reason. The day offers a rare chance to step inside some of the city’s leading architectural practices, providing insight into project work, values that shape design outcomes and studio culture. As a graduate, I know the transition from university to practice can feel daunting, and this event is helpful for both students and graduates to understand how different studios operate and what to expect in practice. The relaxed setting encourages questions and provides insight into the type of practice you might see yourself working in, whether that’s a small, design-led studio or a larger multidisciplinary firm. 

A + W Pecha Kucha
Friday 19th September, from 5:30pm to 8:00pm | UnserHaus Kitchen Appliance Showroom, 65 Parnell Rise, Auckland.

Asia, Aotearoa and the Architecture of Crisis
Saturday 27th September, from 5:00pm to 6:00pm | Neon Theatre, 22 Symonds Street, Auckland.

The Architecture + Women NZ Pecha Kucha celebrates the voices and contributions of women in architecture. This year’s theme: “Good public Architecture - and How Women Shape Communities,” brings together inspiring speakers who are reshaping the way we design. A week later, the Asia, Aotearoa and Architecture of Crisis Pecha Kucha will turn the spotlight to global issues, from displacement and migration to climate and identity in architecture. The Pecha Kucha format, 20 slides at 20 seconds each, is a rapid fire structure that relies on the synergy and simultaneous delivery of visual and verbal presentation elements, challenging presenters to communicate their ideas with efficiency. Given the client-facing nature of architecture, presentation skills are a must-have in practice, and events like these are the perfect place for us to see how professionals articulate complex ideas with clarity to engage audiences.

Weaving Connections
Thursday 25th September, from 6:00pm to 8:15pm | Wynyard Pavillion, Auckland.

Weaving Connections brings together architects, urban designers, planners and more in the industry to connect and share ideas. Hosted by Architecture+Women NZ, Women in Urbanism Aotearoa and the NZIA, this event is perfect for students and graduates looking to engage with others in the profession in an informal and welcoming environment. Networking is an important skill in any career, and this event provides us with the chance to develop connections, seek mentorship and explore opportunities for professional growth. Its relaxed structure encourages authentic conversation, facilitating meaningful relationships that will support our transition from university to practice.

The Great Debate
Friday 26th September, time to be released | Q Theatre, Queen Street, Auckland.

A festival staple, The Great Debate sees two teams of architects, engineers and social commentators tackle a pressing industry topic. Last year’s debate considered whether Auckland’s iconic Queen Street should evolve or devolve. For graduates, it’s an opportunity to hear diverse perspectives on current issues in the profession. Following the debate, the mixer provides an opportunity to discuss these ideas further and socialise with peers and professionals.

These highlights are just a snapshot of the nationwide programme. From talks and exhibitions to open studios and walking tours, there is something for everyone. The Aotearoa Festival of Architecture runs from 14th to 28th September 2025, and offers graduates a unique chance to step into the industry, broaden our perspectives and be inspired by the people shaping New Zealand’s built environment. Visit the NZIA website for the full schedule.