New Zealand : An Architectural Identity Dialogue

One of the important themes that have dominated the architectural scene during the last 30 years is the question of regional identity, and the question of New Zealand identity in specific. Traditionally, architectural discourse has been largely concerned with form. It has been dominated by disputes that turn around questions of style. Although architects have been looking overseas for new ideas and models from Europe and America, many architects recognised that the creation of a New Zealand style was a priority. Many New Zealand architects' buildings embody and express cultural and social meanings, which relate them to the wider New Zealand context. Among these architects, Roger Walker and Ian Athfield, whos styles offer a potentially rich field for the discussion of New Zealand identity.