Intelligent structural engineering design that balances performance, buildability, cost, and resilience.
Structure Design provides structural engineering analysis and design for a wide range of buildings, infrastructure, and sculptural structures across New Zealand, with the ability to deliver complex and technically demanding projects.
What we do
We provide structural design and analysis services tailored to the needs of each project, including:
- Structural engineering design for new construction
- Assessment, alteration, and upgrade of existing structures
- Independent peer review and expert advisory services
Analysis is applied at a level appropriate to the risk, complexity and decision being made.
Analysis capabilities
Appropriate analysis informs every stage of our work, from early feasibility through to detailed design and review. Understanding how a structure is likely to behave under real loading conditions allows informed decisions around form, materials, and detailing.
We use a wide range of analysis techniques, selecting the right tool for the job:
- Straightforward methods where appropriate
- 3D computer modelling for seismic design and multi-storey construction
- Bespoke analysis tools for multi-storey timber buildings
- Vibration analysis for sensitive floors
- Advanced earthquake simulation and non-linear analysis where seismic performance or complexity demand it
Our in-house engineering systems allow options to be tested efficiently at early stages, supporting timely decisions and dependable long-term performance.
Sustainability and embodied carbon analysis
Where carbon reduction is a project objective or specific client requirement, we assess the embodied carbon for structural elements to inform project decision-making. Embodied carbon assessment can be used to compare structural systems, assess material choices, and test early design options.
We have particular expertise in timber structural design and in efficient hybrid systems combining timber with other materials.
Sustainability is also addressed through the assessment and re-use of existing structures, often delivering significant carbon savings while preserving asset value.
Design and analysis at Structure Design combines technical rigor, informed judgement, and specialist capability to deliver resilient, efficient structural outcomes across New Zealand.
Get in touch to discuss how our structural engineering expertise can support your next project.
Start by getting in touch with Structure Design to talk about what you want to achieve. One of our senior engineers will contact you to understand your requirements, provide initial advice, and outline the next steps. Early involvement allows us to influence structural form and materials, helping improve cost effectiveness, buildability, sustainability, durability, and seismic resilience from the outset.
Yes - where it adds value.
We are early adopters of new technology and use AI-assisted tools to improve efficiency in areas such as data handling, workflow integration between software platforms, and refining documentation and communication. Our core structural analysis and design remain grounded in established engineering principles, industry-standard software, and experienced engineering judgement. AI is used to support these processes, not replace them.
We are also actively exploring areas such as parametric design and optimisation, where these tools can help test options more efficiently and inform better design decisions on complex projects. All outputs are reviewed and verified by our engineers before being issued. We see AI as a tool to enhance clarity, speed, and insight - not as a substitute for engineering judgement.
Our clients often ask us to provide a one-stop-shop for design of primary building structures and for design of seismic restraints for non-structural elements such as ceilings, partitions, building services, and timber-framed facades with brick or lightweight cladding. This approach can streamline the design coordination and delivery process, especially for complex projects. We have provided these services for a wide range of buildings, from multi-storey commercial to retirement complexes and hospitals.
Yes. Most structural steel used in New Zealand is imported, as only reinforcing steel and some plate and coil products are manufactured locally. The key issue is not where the steel is made, but whether it can be verified as meeting New Zealand Building Code requirements, including material standards, traceability, and quality assurance.
In New Zealand, certification schemes such as ACRS are commonly relied on to demonstrate compliance. If the supplier does not have recognised certification, additional testing, documentation, and verification may be required, which can introduce cost, programme risk, and uncertainty. We recommend addressing this early in procurement and ensuring the contractor’s supply chain includes clear compliance pathways before any material is ordered.
Other structural materials like cross-laminated timber (CLT) can also be sourced from overseas. In this case, the supplier will need to submit evidence to verify that the product meets New Zealand Building Code requirements. For CLT, this would include compliance with fire performance and durability requirements.
We typically respond to enquiries within one working day, and often sooner.