Esteemed architect, teacher, and friend: In memory of David Kernohan MNZM
Te Wāhanga Waihanga-Hoahoa—Faculty of Architecture and Design Innovation acknowledges the passing of David Kernohan. He will be remembered as a much-loved academic, architectural leader, and cherished member of the University community.
Over more than two decades, David contributed to the School of Architecture, and helped shape the lives of many students and colleagues. He has left a profound legacy in the built environment of Aotearoa New Zealand.
David joined the School of Architecture in 1977 as a Senior Lecturer, later serving as Chairman of Department from 1982 to 1986 and again briefly in 1989. From 1992 to 1996, he led the Faculty as Dean, guiding the staff and students through a period of transformation and growth.
In the classroom, David was a passionate and generous teacher, known for his expertise in architectural technology, urban design, and building heritage conservation. From 2001 to 2013, he taught courses that inspired students to think critically and ethically about architecture’s role in society.
Beyond his academic achievements, David was an influential figure in the national architecture landscape. He was a Fellow of the New Zealand Institute of Architects, was named a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to architecture in 2015, and was a key voice in some of the country’s most important conversations around planning, heritage, and the built environment. His dedication to the profession was reflected in roles that spanned public service, education, and industry.
David played a pivotal role in saving the iconic Futuna Chapel from demolition, later becoming a long-time trustee of Friends of Futuna. He also served on the Wellington Waterfront Board, contributing to the vision and development of one of the capital’s most treasured public spaces.
David’s knowledge of architecture extended far beyond design—he had a rich understanding of building science, environmental planning, resource management, and the legal frameworks that support sustainable development.
His work as one of the three authors of the 2002 Hunn Report on weathertightness marked a turning point in New Zealand’s understanding of building quality and performance. The report highlighted systemic issues in the building industry, particularly poor design, inadequate building practices, and insufficient regulation, which contributed to the leaky building crisis. This authoritative report has been well read, and frequently referenced in many forums including the High Court of New Zealand for over 20 years.
From 2007 to 2023, David continued to serve the public interest as Deputy Commissioner for the Environment Court, bringing fairness, integrity, and deep expertise to complex planning and heritage cases.
Those who knew David will remember him not just for his professional achievements, but for his warmth, his humility, and his unwavering commitment to mentoring others. He was a thoughtful, principled, and fair-minded man—deeply respected by peers and students alike.
“David Kernohan was an architectural treasure personified. His enthusiasm, knowledge, wit, and wisdom brought life and activity to the School of Architecture. He is remembered with great warmth by his colleagues and many former students,” says Nigel Isaacs from the School of Architecture.
“David looked to the future – whether through his work on the use of Post Occupancy Evaluation and building evaluation to improve future buildings, or the opportunities for the best use of heritage architecture. His books on Wellington and Wairarapa buildings provided the first guides to the too often overlooked architectural highlights.
“Perhaps the most important from a national perspective, David’s work on the “Leaky Building Syndrome” (known as the ‘Hunn Report’) set the scene for the revised Building Act 2004 and improvements to the NZ Building Code. Its impact continues to be visible today’s new buildings,” says Nigel.
“David’s work will continue to contribute to buildings in New Zealand and around the world in the future.”
Friend and former colleague, Michael Donn from the School of Architecture adds, “David’s ability to move with humour, empathy, and principle between communities is what sticks in the mind.
“A distinct memory was in the 1980s, during a second-year design project involving a small marae community. David drew a powerful parallel between the displacement of people from their land and the loss of language in his native Scotland. In doing so, he congratulated the community, suggesting there was real hope in the way they had preserved, and revitalised their culture and language—perhaps more successfully than what he had seen at home.
“David’s impact on architecture in New Zealand is immense and enduring. His passion for the discipline, his devotion to his students, and his many contributions to public life have shaped our landscapes, our thinking, and our community.”
David was remembered at a Memorial Service on Thursday 17 April. Friends, colleagues, peers, and those who knew David are invited to leave a message for the Kernohan family.