Who we are

Who we are

We’re a design studio based in Wellington, Aotearoa/New Zealand, founded in 1999. We enjoy working with like-minded clients locally and all over the world. Our design team applies an information design lens to everything we do – whether that’s developing a campaign, brand or website, or bringing your information to life using infographics, illustration, animation and video.

Our values

Expertise

We inspire, create solutions, and strive for excellence

Empathy

We care, listen, and recognise each other’s challenges

Kaizen

We search for ways to improve and never stop learning

Genuine

We build trust, are sincere and care about the work we do

Empower

We support each other to take initiative and grow

Meet our team

photo of Annette Ellis

Annette Ellis

Creative Director

Annette leads our creative team and Gusto’s creative direction. With extensive experience in design and strategy, she transforms information through clear, engaging design. Ensuring exceptional quality at every stage with eagle-eyed attention to detail. In fact we think Aotearoa’s native kārearea falcon would be her spirit animal.
+64 4 815 8166
photo of Heather Brown

Heather Brown

Studio Director

Heather brings a wealth of knowledge, seamless project management skills and a keen eye for design to Gusto. She is involved in projects from the initial discovery stages through to completion, all the way making sure clients feel comfortable, connected and supported.
+64 4 815 8169
photo of Judith Carnaby

Judith Carnaby

Information Designer and Illustrator

Judith specialises in illustration that turns complex information into visually engaging and memorable content. Her clear and vibrant illustration reflects her sparkling personality – and never fails to spark the imagination. As a lecturer and writer, Judith is also the perfect fit for our workshops to reveal the visual voice of your organisation.
+64 4 814 8164
photo of Steph Glen

Steph Glen

Studio Manager and Marketing Coordinator

Steph is the first point of call for our studio. Drawing on 10 years of design industry experience, she guides all our projects, working closely with clients and our design team to ensure every project runs smoothly, within time and budget. You’ll also hear Steph’s bubbly voice across our socials.
+64 4 499 9150
photo of Rebecca Walthall

Rebecca Walthall

Information Designer and Illustrator

Have you ever had someone take an idea from your head and transform it into a work of art that had you clapping your hands with pure delight? Well, Rebecca can totally do that. She's our eyes in Aus, currently based in Melbourne.
photo of Ruby Ash

Ruby Ash

Information Designer and Illustrator

Ruby’s experience across branding, editorial design and illustration allows her to create meaningful messages and tell stories in fresh, thoughtful ways. She analyses content and creates clear communication, with visual design that never fails to get the point across.
As well as getting you to smile. Currently based in London.
photo of Nick Kitchener

Nick Kitchener

Design Artworker

Meet Nick, our enthusiastic 'Yes Man' based in sunny Nelson, New Zealand. Known for his efficiency, he is always eager to lend a hand to ensure our projects get across the line.

Our partners

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Plain Language Consultancy

With their words and our design, your audience won't be able to put your resource down. Together we make your information more accessible and engaging than ever before.

Write helps clients make their written messages clear. Write’s people are experienced and insightful consultants – writers, editors, trainers and coaches – and experts on the techniques and real-world benefits of plain language.

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Cultural Consultancy Practice

TIRA Tū Kotahi assist clients and communities to find solutions to complex cultural issues. Collaborating with TIRA Tū Kotahi ensures te ao Māori is woven through the fabric of our visual design from inception.

TIRA Tū Kotahi offer specialist cultural advisory services. Services include: advice or support to engage appropriately and respectfully with Māori communities, help developing culturally responsive communications, and assistance to embed te ao Māori worldviews.


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Videography & Photography

From video series sharing human stories and data, to building impressive image libraries that add value to your resources for years to come, together we’ll craft a unique storytelling piece especially for you.

Empire films are Wellington based corporate videographers and photographers. Who capture the perfect shot, angle and interview with the right people in the right place.