‘N.Z. Architects Unrecognised’

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30937, 18 December 1965, Page 16

‘N.Z. Architects Unrecognised’

(New Zealand Press Association) WELLINGTON, Dec. 17. “It is gratifying to New Zealand architects to have their talents praised by a visiting American architect when he criticised the Government for engaging an American architect to design a chancery for the New Zealand Embassy in Washington,” said Mr E. V. Dawson, president of the Institute of Architects today.

“Mr Holyoake is reported as saying he did not know of any New Zealand architect who designed buildings for New Zealand overseas. He must realise that the only reason for this is that the Government has not provided the opportunity. “The Government Architect and his staff would be eminently capable of designing this building, as would any number of private firms. Most countries regard such an occasion as an opportunity to demonstrate their talents to the world. Not so New Zealand,” he said. “New Zealand architects are already privately entrusted with work overseas, usually engaging the assistance of a local firm in regard to local regulations. This would appear to have been the proper course in this case. “If it is too late to reverse this decision it is to be hoped that New Zealand painters, potters, sculptors ano fabric designers are not similarly ignored so that the building may be identified in some way with New Zealand.

“It is disheartening for the profession to know that not even the prospect of saving the overseas funds to be paid in feet would induce the Government to recognise the ability at its disposal,” said Mr Dawson.