James Whetter

James Whetter is a Principal who leads residential projects at Jasmax, with over 25 years’ experience across Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia and the UK. He specialises in the design and delivery of medium- to high-density residential buildings and has a deep understanding of the technical requirements and commercial metrics required for successful development.

At Jasmax, James leads a team of specialists delivering equitable, inclusive, and sustainable housing solutions. He has developed considerable knowledge around delivering more affordability, while improving social and environmental outcomes, and has attended several international research trips to explore build-to-rent models, cooperatives, and restricted profit development models.

A strong advocate for innovation in design and construction, James actively promotes the adoption of mass timber buildings. He is currently leading several neighbourhood-scale, mixed-tenure housing developments. 

Recognising his leadership and contribution to the sector, James was named a National Board Member of the Urban Development Institiute of New Zealand (UDINZ) in 2025.