Plimmer brings extensive international experience in architecture and interior design, alongside strong local connections and knowledge of the Otago region. His appointment signals Ministry’s commitment to supporting regional development with world-class design capability backed by a national team.

He says he was drawn to Ministry’s combination of history, quality, and culture, “What impressed me most about Ministry was the way Directors Malcolm and Lindy Ewart chose to acquire and continue the company’s lineage, and the depth of expertise they’ve built across all sectors. It’s an invigorating, agile environment with a genuine care for its people, and a clear vision for sustainable growth. Add to that the calibre of work produced, the loyalty of clients, and the energy of the team — it felt like the right place at the right time in my career.”

Bringing skills and networks rooted in the South Island from his four years living in Wānaka, Plimmer was the ideal choice for Ministry. 

“I studied in Christchurch and have spent years visiting this region through family ties. Over the past four years I’ve immersed myself in the business community across Wānaka and Queenstown, getting to know the people who are shaping its growth. That local insight, paired with my international design experience in Europe and the Middle East, gives me a unique perspective on how we can deliver projects that are both ambitious and sensitive to place,” says Plimmer. 

His career includes extensive work in hospitality, multi-storey residential, and large-scale architectural projects, coupled with business development experience that brings a client-focused lens to design. Earlier in his career, Plimmer contributed to the design of Queenstown’s Pounamu Apartments, giving him first-hand experience in the region’s development trajectory.

By having ‘boots on the ground’ in Queenstown, Ministry will be able to deliver the same fast, focused and collaborative service it is known for nationally while supporting the growing demand for large-scale, complex projects in the lower South Island.

Ministry is already contributing design strength in local hotels, retirement, retail and residential developments, and are currently in discussions with clients around major hotel and multi-residential developments. It is also anticipated that their national experience in hospitality, commercial, luxury retirement living and community master planning will contribute a welcome boost to the region, with potential long-term opportunities in built-to-rent housing, education and data centres, responding to evolving demand in the regional market.

Ministry’s leadership team says Plimmer’s appointment reflects the company’s ambition to be recognised as a truly national practice.

“New Zealand’s design needs are as diverse as its landscapes — from the subtropical north to the alpine south. With Plimmer operating from the Queenstown Lakes region we can support clients across the full spectrum of opportunities in Otago and Southland, backed by the strength of our national team,” said Ministry Director Malcolm Ewart.