Our team.
Meet our core Tū Tika team. Our diverse backgrounds, expertise and strengths enable us to provide an extremely versatile, highly engaged and client-focused approach.
The Tū Tika team holds professional membership and affiliations with:
· CCANZ (Cement and Concrete Association of New Zealand)
· EngNZ (Engineering New Zealand Te Ao Rangahau)
· HERA (Heavy Engineering Research Association)
· NZSEE (New Zealand Society for Earthquake Engineering)
· NZTDS (New Zealand Timber Design Society)
· SCNZ (Steel Construction New Zealand Incorporated)
· SESOC (Structural Engineering Society New Zealand)
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Jaden (Nui) Whiunui
CIVIL AND STRUCTURAL ENGINEER
CPEng (Civil & Structural), SESOC Nelson Regional Representative, Member of EngNZ, NZGS and NZSEE
Working for over two decades in multi-disciplinary consulting organisations and with large asset holders throughout New Zealand, Nui has delivered innovative solutions across residential, commercial and industrial sectors. He combines his profound dedication to engineering excellence with a passion for community engagement. Of Māori (Waikato-Tainui, Ngati Maru) and NZ European descent, he draws on this rich heritage to foster inclusive and sustainable project environments. Nui is the SESOC Nelson regional representative. An avid rugby fan, he is also a coach and board member for Nelson Marist Junior Rugby, and on the Board of Trustees of St. Joseph’s School Nelson.
KEY PROJECTS
Stockton CHPP: Jaden was a lead structural engineer for the Stockton Coal Handling Preparation Plant, collaborating with Brightwater Engineering. This involved detailed design and connection of approximately 200 tonnes of steelwork and supporting foundations, including rock anchors, to withstand extreme wind speeds of 200km/h. The design also accommodated 500 metres of conveyors and heavy vehicles exceeding 120 tonnes.
Sanford Mussel Processing Factory Strengthening, Havelock: Following the Kaikoura earthquake, Jaden spearheaded the seismic strengthening of this critical industrial facility. His leadership ensured the project’s completion within a critical four-week window, significantly enhancing the factory’s resilience and securing the continuity of operations.
Arthur Wicks Seismic Upgrade (AWB) IL4: In this collaborative effort, Jaden played a pivotal role in enhancing the structural resilience of a prominent building. His contribution ensured the building’s occupants’ safety and served as a benchmark for regional seismic upgrades.
Andy Reid
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER
BE(Mech), CPEng(Structural)
With over 20 years’ engineering design experience, Andy’s expertise is bolstered by his deep understanding of structural and mechanical engineering principles and ability to see the complete picture of a proposed or completed structure. He has specialist expertise in the structural design of timber, concrete and steel structures, beam element and finite element modelling, NDT inspection techniques, 3D presentation modelling and draughting as well as extensive knowledge of current structural codes. Andy finds his equilibrium on the water, sailing and foil boarding.
KEY PROJECTS
Arthur Wicks Seismic Upgrade (AWB) IL4: Andy’s innovative approach was instrumental in this project, which aimed to increase the building’s resistance to seismic forces. His ability to think outside the box led to the implementation of cutting-edge engineering solutions that have set new standards for structural resilience.
Riverwalk Apartments: This four-story building features a lightweight gravity structure, vierendeel truss and concrete shear walls, all supported by a steel screw-piled foundation.
Kaikoura Library and Museum: PRESSS technology was used for a seismic-resistant design. This included a hybrid system with mild steel bolts and post-tensioned bars, enhancing the building’s earthquake resilience and simplifying repairs.
Mitchell Kemp
SENIOR STRUCTURAL ENGINEER
BE(Hons), MEngSt, CPEng (Structural), CMEngNZ
Based out of Tū Tika’s Wanaka office, Mitch is an extremely versatile engineer with extensive knowledge of various structural materials, systems, and construction methods. His 10+ years’ experience designing, assessing, and monitoring complex construction projects across New Zealand alongside architects, contractors, and other consultants allows him to take a holistic approach to providing pragmatic structural solutions. His work is characterised by effective communication and attention to detail, leading to a seamless design and construction experience.
KEY PROJECTS
Hutt Valley Health Hub IL4: Mitch led the structural design of this healthcare facility, incorporating advanced seismic resilience features such as the Resilient Slip Friction Joint (RSFJ). His work ensures that the facility can continue to serve the community, even in the aftermath of significant seismic events.
Mt Holland Lithium Refinery: In this critical industrial project, Mitch’s expertise was pivotal in designing structural supports that met stringent safety and operational requirements. His contributions underscore the critical role of engineering innovation in supporting sustainable resource extraction.
Arthur Wicks Seismic Upgrade (AWB) IL4: Contributing his expertise to this collective effort, Mitch helped enhance the structural safety of a critical building, reinforcing his commitment to safeguarding communities through engineering excellence.
Allan Croft
PROJECT MANAGEMENT CONSULTANT
NZCertEng(Electrical), TechnicianCert(Industrial Electronics)
A proven leader with exceptional organisational skills and business acumen, there’s not much Allan hasn’t done during his illustrious management career – from overseeing large engineering teams and leading manufacturing and export businesses, to project managing significant plant builds and earthquake strengthening projects on time and under budget. Based in Nelson, Allan is a keen boatie, fisherman and lover of the great outdoors.
Sharon Hayward
OFFICE MANAGER
BusDip (inc)
In addition to her extensive finance and administration experience, Sharon is Tū Tika’s highly valued organiser extraordinaire and self-described “camp mother”. She ensures all day-to-day aspects of the business run smoothly, enabling our engineers to focus on engineering. Sharon’s energy is undeniable, completing long distance trail running adventures such as the 33km Abel Tasman Coastal Classic just for fun, as well as plenty of walking and biking. Sharon and her husband have two adult children and run their own business. The way to her heart is through a good coffee.
“I have worked in with Tū Tika for several years on a wide range of projects from structural elements for buildings to engineered designs for supporting plant and equipment. The Tu Tika team great to work with, from consultation right through to final completion.
I have found Jaden and his team to be very professional and knowledgeable. Their designs are practical in real world applications, ensuring a quality product in a cost-effective manner is achieved.”
DAVID CARLSON-McCOLL
Water and Wastewater Engineer, Envirolink