Our people
Poornaka is a structural engineer with over a decade of experience delivering buildings and infrastructure projects across New Zealand. He enjoys working closely with architects and developers to shape practical, well-resolved structural solutions that support strong design outcomes. His portfolio includes retaining structures, multi-story buildings, and complex new builds, with a particular focus on balancing structural performance, constructability, and cost. Poornaka takes a thoughtful, collaborative approach to every project, helping ensure a smooth path from early concept through to construction.
A highly-skilled professional, proficient in the management of large, complex and programme-critical works, Damian draws from over 15 years’ civil construction experience to deliver projects to the highest standards, within the most challenging timeframes. Project management and programming are Damian’s key strengths — being methodical in his approach while still thinking creatively and critically. Through clear communication, Damian co-ordinates multiple parties from investigation and design to job setup and construction. He is well versed in the fields of permanent and temporary barrier design, traffic management design, hydraulic design, major earthworks, concrete, pavement construction drainage, service installation and relocation.
Juan is an experienced Senior Civil Engineer with over twelve years in the industry, specialising in land development projects of all sizes, from residential subdivisions to large commercial and industrial developments. With a strong focus on stormwater design and roading, he delivers practical and innovative solutions that meet both project needs and regulatory requirements. Known for his attention to detail and ability to collaborate effectively with stakeholders, Juan ensures clear communication between clients, consultants, and regulatory bodies. His experience in designing and managing infrastructure projects—including public roads across Auckland and Waikato—has equipped him with the expertise to handle complex engineering challenges. Juan is dedicated to delivering high-quality, cost-effective solutions that add value to every project and contribute to the long-term success of his clients.
With over six years of experience in civil engineering, Zorany Agudelo specializes in stormwater and wastewater infrastructure, land development, and subdivision projects. She has a strong background in civil design and construction monitoring for both residential and commercial developments. Zorany values clear communication and strong relationships with clients and stakeholders, ensuring risks are identified early and addressed proactively. Committed to delivering practical and efficient solutions, she prioritizes prompt responses and value-driven engineering. Passionate about working on projects across New Zealand, Zorany enjoys collaborating with different Councils to navigate diverse regulatory requirements and achieve successful project outcomes.
With many years of experience across a variety of Structural Engineering sectors—including residential, commercial, educational and aged care—Alyx has dedicated his craft to the residential sector. Alyx enjoys the collaborative nature of residential engineering, working closely with architects, clients, developers, and other consultants to bring solutions to life. With over a decade of experience in the industry, he uses his technical skills to deliver buildable, cost-effective structural designs. As a director, Alyx is passionate about providing support to his staff and encouraging them to further their careers. He always makes himself available for questions and training, as he is proud of his team and driven to continue to raise the most highly skilled residential engineers. His vision is for DHC to be recognised as the “go to” Engineering company in the New Zealand Residential market. In the weekends you can find Alyx coaching or supporting his kids on the side of sports fields. In his downtime, he is most often swinging a golf club at Waitemata Golf Club or enjoying one of the many beaches north of Auckland.
With extensive experience across Auckland and regional New Zealand, Dominic is a highly skilled Structural Engineer specialising in a diverse range of projects. As a Director of DHC and Senior Engineer in the Residential team, Dominic focuses on delivering practical and cost-effective engineering solutions for high-end residential properties, medium-density developments, educational facilities, and light commercial projects. With a deep understanding of structural principles and a commitment to quality, he ensures that each project is not only aesthetically pleasing but also structurally sound and compliant with industry standards. His expertise in engineering design and problem-solving makes him invaluable in any development initiative. Outside of work, you can find Dominic spending time with his young kids and hitting up the golf course.
Jonathan is an innovative and technically excellent structural engineer with extensive experience in a variety of structures including high-rise commercial buildings, steel lattice towers, apartment buildings, reinforced concrete commercial buildings and industrial structures. Since graduating in 2010 his career has spanned New Zealand, Australia, Thailand & Hong Kong. He has worked closely with leading experts, both academically and professionally, to successfully deliver a wide variety of interesting and complex projects.
Nathan is a passionate and highly skilled structural engineer who takes pride in delivering exceptional value to every project. Driven by a deep enthusiasm for structures and innovative design, he thrives on solving complex engineering challenges with creative yet practical solutions. As a Director of DHC, Nathan brings strategic leadership, technical excellence, and a commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. He ensures that the firm's design ethos emphasizes advanced technical analysis, strategic decision-making early in the design process, and the consistent achievement of significant cost savings and optimized structural performance. Nathan has extensive experience across a diverse range of sectors including commercial offices, apartment buildings, shopping centres and retail, multi-storey and basement car parks, industrial warehouses and facilities, education, health care, retirement villages, infrastructure, earth retention structures, water tanks, and bridges. With a strong commitment to seismic resilience, buildability, and efficiency, he ensures every structure meets stringent standards and aligns seamlessly with client objectives and real-world practicality. He values open communication and close collaboration, fostering strong relationships with clients, contractors, and design teams. Nathan’s proactive, hands-on approach ensures projects run smoothly, delivering outcomes that exceed expectations and offer lasting value.
With over 15 years of experience spanning Australia and New Zealand, Nigel brings to his projects his vast experience across the different civil engineering sections – residential, commercial, infrastructure and industrial. Nigel works closely with the wider design team and clients to achieve efficient and practical designs. Collaboration and communication is key. As a director, Nigel is passionate about Team growth, culture and sound communication. He prides himself on responsiveness and driving care behind designs and design outcomes. On weekends, Nigel enjoys spending time with family and whilst not amazing, tries his best at golf.
With over 15 years of experience in structural engineering, Andrew has had the privilege of working on a diverse range of projects across New Zealand and Australia. After graduating from the University of Canterbury, he gained extensive experience in both countries, particularly through design and build contracts that demanded practical, efficient solutions from concept to completion. Andrew has contributed to the successful delivery of large industrial facilities, multi-storey commercial buildings, terrace housing developments, and high-end residential homes. He’s passionate about creating structures that are not only safe and efficient but also tailored to the unique needs of each client and project.
Harpo is a highly accomplished Senior Structural Engineer with over 18 years of experience in design consultancy, contributing to a wide range of high-profile commercial and residential projects. His portfolio spans everything from luxury architectural homes and retirement villages to multi-level apartment buildings, terrace houses, and educational facilities. Known for a practical and economical approach to design, he is passionate about creating solutions tailored to each client's vision. He also works closely with clients and consultant teams to add genuine value to every project. His work includes multiple award-winning designs, showcasing a strong ability to deliver innovative and sustainable engineering solutions.