Career Breaks

Why we did this research

Career breaks are a common part of working life, particularly for women in architecture. However, the impacts of these breaks -on career progression, confidence, registration, and return-to-work experiences are not well understood or consistently supported within the profession.

Between 2024 and 2025, Architecture + Women NZ (A+W) conducted national surveys and engaged with practitioners across Aotearoa to better understand these experiences.

This research aims to:

- identify systemic barriers affecting returners
- highlight gaps in workplace and institutional support
- inform better practice, policy, and professional pathways
- support a more equitable and inclusive architectural profession

National research on career breaks

We have conducted two national surveys exploring career breaks in architecture:

2024 Survey – Architectural Career Breaks
2025 Survey – Architectural Career Breaks
These surveys gathered insights from practitioners across Aotearoa New Zealand, focusing on:

- parental leave and caregiving breaks
- return-to-work experiences
- professional registration and CPD challenges
- workplace support and culture
- long-term career impacts
 

View full survey reports here:
https://architecturewomen.org.nz/research/surveys/architectural-career-breaks

Organisations contributing to this work

We acknowledge the support and engagement of:

- Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects (NZIA)
- Teulo
- New Zealand Registered Architects Board (NZRAB)
- Other members of the community who provided support and guidance
 

Also special thanks to Co-Chairs Shereena Noelle Sumeran & Katie Simmons; Jamie Lawrence; Nadya Chadovich (A+W committee)
Their involvement supports ongoing dialogue around registration, professional development, and inclusive practice in architecture.

Ongoing development and advocacy

This research is supported by an active working group focused on:

- improving understanding of career breaks in architecture
- advocating for flexible and equitable professional systems
- developing practical tools and resources for returners
- engaging with industry stakeholders and professional bodies
 

The working group continues to collaborate with practitioners, researchers, and organisations across Aotearoa and internationally.

If you would like to be a part of our working group please contact: [email protected]