More about the Designers Institute of New Zealand

The Institute’s Origins

The Designers Institute of New Zealand Inc. was formed in 1991 by the merger of the New Zealand Society of Industrial Designers (formed 1960), and the New Zealand Association of Interior Designers (formed 1968). Today the Designers Institute represents graphic design, spatial design, industrial design, craft design, design education, design management and interactive media.

Representation on the Designers Institute Board

The Designers Institute Board is made up of members from each design sector of the industry. Each sector is given representation on the board relative to the size of that sector as a proportion of the total membership. The board directs the affairs of the Designers Institute, determines policy and controls the organisation’s monies and finances.

Our goals

The Designers Institute exists to look out for the best interests of its members across the different sectors of design. We want to provide a forum for the voices of New Zealand designers, and to give them the support they need to achieve design excellence. By presenting a united front we hope to always champion fresh, innovative work that competes on a global scale.

Our Mission

To make sure our professional designers are valued and rewarded for the contribution they make to the economic, cultural and social growth of New Zealand. To do this we have a number of goals:

• Bring the different design disciplines together under a united front.
• Improve the standards of professional service.
• Increase demand for design excellence
• Increase the profile of design.
• Encourage the development of professional skills within the membership.

Our Memberships

National

• The Copyright Council
• The Construction Industry Council (CIC)

International

• International Council for Graphic Design Associations (Icograda)
• International Council of Societies of Industrial Design (ISCID)

Lobbying on behalf of designers

As the official voice of New Zealand designers, the Designers Institute lobbies Government on behalf of its members, and has input into proposed changes to legislation that can affect designers. The expert knowledge, experience and professionalism of Designers Institute, together with our legal representatives, gives Designers Institute members strength, credibility and marketability in the design arena.