Meet Dave Strachan, the esteemed Design Director of Strachan Group Architects, whose extensive background and deep-rooted connection to Te Awamutu shape the foundation of Waipiko Landing. With over 40 years of experience in architecture and a passion for sustainable design, Dave brings a unique perspective to this project.

Dave, awarded the prestigious 2020 NZIA Gold Medal, has led a career marked by notable achievements and innovative contributions to New Zealand architecture. His expertise is especially evident in sustainable design, having earned a Master of Architecture Degree with a focus on this area from the University of Auckland. His work emphasises pre-fabricated sustainable buildings, perfectly suited for challenging sites like Waipiko Landing.

Dave’s personal history with the Waipiko Landing site adds a layer of passion and dedication to the project. Having spent his youth exploring the area, once a thriving dairy farm, he carries a lifetime of memories and local knowledge that deeply influence his design philosophy. His early experiences on the land, from afterschool chores to his first design and build projects, have ingrained a strong appreciation for the site’s heritage and potential.

Under Dave’s leadership, SGA has been recognised with over 35 awards from the New Zealand Institute of Architects for various projects, ranging from bespoke homes to community facilities. This legacy of excellence assures that Waipiko Landing is not just a housing development, but a carefully crafted community that aims to enhance the local landscape and lifestyle.

Driven by enthusiasm and a profound connection to his roots, Dave envisions Waipiko Landing as more than just a place to live—it’s a return to the essence of community and a celebration of the New Zealand landscape. His designs promise to integrate modern living with the natural beauty of Te Awamutu, making Waipiko Landing a testament to innovative, contemporary architecture that respects and uplifts its surroundings.