A trans-Tasman partnership has been appointed to design the remodelled gallery. Sydney-based FJMT (Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp), Auckland-based Archimedia and Auckland City will work together to develop a design for one of the largest projects of its kind in New Zealand.

FJMT+Archimedia have an international reputation for their work on high profile public building and urban design commissions. They have considerable expertise in heritage sensitive buildings that integrate new building extensions, such as their award-winning restoration of the heritage Mint in Macquarie Street, Sydney. Other major public projects they have been involved with include Australia’s Parliament House, the University of Sydney’s Scientia building, and the University of Auckland's landmark Business School.

Architect Richard Francis-Jones says:

"This is an incredible opportunity to create a wonderful and exciting art gallery for the twenty first century, inspired not only by the majestic heritage architecture of the existing buildings, but equally by the beautiful organic quality of Albert Park."

Michael Carver is recognised internationally as an expert in gallery design and is consultant to a variety of the world's most renowned arts institutions. He is established as one of the few experts requested to provide advice, peer review and publish guidance for such notable bodies as The Museum and Galleries Commission and The Museums Association in the UK.

Bernard Makoare has provided valuable cultural insight and interpretation to help determine key architectural and design elements that will be incorporated into the new building and its immediate surrounds. He has worked closely with the architectural team to shape and define some of the key symbolic elements of the new art gallery form which respond to traditional Maori beliefs and the site’s sense of history and place.

Makoare is currently Project Manager, Ngati Whatua Heru Hapai: Te Runanga o Ngati Whatua and secretary of Tama ta uaua marae, Kaihu. He is also a member of Haerewa, the Maori advisory board which works with the gallery, a Ngati Whatua representative on the Taumata-a-iwi at Auckland Museum, and newly appointed to Puatatangi Committee of Toi Maori Creative New Zealand. He is an artist, designer and musician.

Jeremy Salmond is a director of Salmond Reed Architects and will assist the team with conservation and heritage issues associated with the development of the Auckland Art Gallery.

New Zealand heritage expert Jeremy Salmond has been consultant to the Auckland City Council in many recent heritage projects. Salmond Reed Architects has been directly involved in the Auckland War Memorial Museum, St Matthews in the City Church, Sacred Heart Cathedral, Civic Theatre and Auckland Chief Post Office heritage restoration projects.

The Salmond Reed Architects has recognised expertise in heritage matters. The Auckland Art Gallery project team engaged Salmond Reed to develop the revised conservation plan and he will be working directly with Auckland City Council and the architect in the detailing of the heritage aspects of the gallery project.