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

Growth

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.
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.
photo of Ruby Cumming

Ruby Cumming

Studio Manager

Ruby brings media production, design, and marketing experience to Gusto, combining strategic oversight with meticulous organisation to keep projects running smoothly from brief to delivery.
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.
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.
photo of Maximo Paenza

Maximo Paenza

Information Designer and Illustrator

Passionate about creativity, originality, and collaboration, Max transforms complex ideas into striking visuals that leave a lasting impact. Drawing from an international career and experience across diverse industries, he brings a unique perspective to his design and illustration.
photo of Nick Kitchener

Nick Kitchener

Design Artworker

Meet Nick, our enthusiastic 'Yes Man'. 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.