Have you ever walked into a room and immediately felt at peace? Or noticed how a building can sit so perfectly in its landscape that it looks like it grew there? The spaces we inhabit are so much more than just bricks and mortar - they are the silent narrators of our lives.
Join us for a truly fascinating journey into The Built World with renowned Hawke’s Bay Architectural Designer and ex-farmer, Andy Coltart. Andy has spent decades challenging the status quo. In this inviting and eye-opening session, he will share his incredible story of shifting from farming to property development, and how he learned to rewrite the rules when rigid council regulations stood in the way of great design.
You’ll hear brilliant behind-the-scenes stories, like how he successfully created, along with others, a 30-year no-build zone along the Black Barn ridge, and how he championed the harmony between house and landscape at Riverside - even down to writing council rules for visual impact controls including self-imposed curtain linings and door and window facing colours to protect the visual environment! This was marginally successful as subsequent owners like to express themselves. Andy will reveal why freedom of expression in design is crucial for protecting our investments, and why working closely with the land is the secret to a beautiful home.
Availability is limited to 25 tickets.
What to Expect:
- Fascinating Insights: Learn how architecture, landscaping, and freedom of expression shape the spaces we inhabit and protect our investments.
- Behind-the-Scenes Stories: Hear firsthand how a local trailblazer successfully challenged the status quo to protect Hawke's Bay's visual environment.
- Meaningful Connection: With only 25 seats, this intimate setting is perfect for mingling and connecting with fellow guests.
Secure your ticket today and prepare for an afternoon of wonderful food, brilliant company, and eye-opening conversation.
Please note: We cater to most dietary requirements with prior notice. Please advise us of any allergies when booking.
About the experts
Andy Coltart
Andy Coltart is a celebrated Hawke's Bay Architectural designer, developer, and former farmer approaching 100 projects to his name - a rare achievement in New Zealand. Transitioning from farming into architecture during a changing climate, Andy quickly became a trailblazer, working with councils to incorporate some landscaping issues. From creating a 30-year no-build zone along the Black Barn ridge with Te Mata Estate and Weleda to championing landscape-led architecture at Riverside, Andy's work is defined by a deep belief that house and landscape must work in seamless harmony. When he speaks, he brings a room to life with brilliant stories and infectious curiosity.
Christina Tay - Learning Facilitator
Christina is a lifelong learner with a profound passion for exploring diverse cultures and disciplines. Her curiosity has inspired extensive global travel, from teaching English to Buddhist monks in Laos and volunteering at a Thai orphanage to visiting museums across Europe, the UK, and Asia. A highlight of her travels is the Bishop Museum in Hawai'i, which she visits frequently, including during the 2014 World Indigenous Peoples' Conference on Education.
Her academic journey began with law and politics at Waikato University, where she discovered dispute resolution. She subsequently earned a Master’s in Mediation and Conflict Resolution from Strathclyde University, UK. This period included an exchange at the East China University of Political Science and Law in Shanghai and research in Hong Kong on the ombudsman's role.
Currently a Learning Facilitator for Love Heart Social Learning, Christina also teaches the Restorative Practices microcredential at Victoria University. A fully accredited restorative justice facilitator and assessor, she recently delivered mediation training in Micronesia. Previously, she served as Director of Employee Assistance Resolution Services at Victoria University.
Outside of work, Christina enjoys connecting with loved ones and attending international events, such as the 2025 Restorative Practices conference in Singapore, to continually expand her expertise.
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