Jasmax strengthens Queenstown presence
Jasmax has strengthened its presence in Tāhuna Queenstown with the relocation of Associate Principal and architect Paul Lelieveld to the region – a move that reinforces the practice’s long-term commitment to the Southern Lakes District.
The move reflects the scale and complexity of development across the region, and the growing need to have a senior, locally based project leader close at hand for clients. With Jasmax’s expanding portfolio including the Cromwell Memorial Hall, Queenstown Airport upgrades, and Queenstown Cable Car, Lelieveld’s presence ensures greater continuity, responsiveness and collaboration for clients.
“After a decade working in Jasmax’s Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland studio followed by a year traveling through Europe, I was drawn to the more diverse, seasonal lifestyle that Queenstown offers – the mountains, hiking, mountain biking and cycling,” says Lelieveld. “But beyond the lifestyle appeal, being part of such a significant period in the Southern Lakes’ development felt like a great opportunity.”
Building on strong foundations
Jasmax has operated in Ōtautahi Christchurch for over 15 years, building long-standing relationships with clients and Ngāi Tahu across Te Waipounamu / the South Island through this studio and the wider practice. Lelieveld’s relocation builds on these established connections while enabling the practice to be even more responsive, accessible and locally engaged.
“We’ve been active in this region for years, and now we’re reinforcing our presence with a project leader on the ground. This move acknowledges the importance of having people who are locally based to front projects and clients, while strengthening relationships that already exist,” explains Lelieveld.
As a full-time resident, Lelieveld is deepening connections with local consultants, contractors, and collaborators, while providing clients direct access to Jasmax’s international and multi-disciplinary expertise. His local presence allows for more agile problem-solving and a deeper understanding of regional context.
Designing for Queenstown’s next chapter
The Southern Lakes presents unique opportunities and challenges. The district has experienced significant growth in both tourism and its local community, creating opportunities while also exposing the limits of existing community services and infrastructure.
“Balancing the needs of a transient population with those of a permanent community is an opportunity we see as an important next stage for Queenstown,” says Lelieveld. “The region’s unique natural environment is something to be treasured and I believe this offers exciting possibilities for more innovative and sustainable design solutions.”
“It’s critical that we approach development cautiously – conscious of the character, landscape, and history of the region. Supporting the region’s evolution while maintaining its essential character is paramount.”
Local insight, international expertise
Jasmax’s expanded Queenstown presence gives clients direct access to a senior architect, backed by the full resources of its Trans-Tasman studios. This model provides local insight and relationship continuity, with international expertise across all project sectors.
For Southern Lakes clients, this represents partnership with a practice that’s been invested in the region’s development for years and is now positioned to contribute even more meaningfully to its future.
Now based full-time in Queenstown, Paul Lelieveld is available to discuss project opportunities across the Southern Lakes District. As an Associate Principal and senior architect, Paul has broad multi-sector expertise spanning commercial, education, aviation, and civic and community sectors. He specialises in the delivery of complex developments that require coordination of multi-disciplinary consultant teams and multiple stakeholder interests.