About Lauren O’Kell

My Background

My passion for creativity began when I was a young child and as I grew up, so did my love for all things design. At the age of 17 I won the national award for ‘New Zealand Young Designer of the Year’, as well as being awarded a full design scholarship with Waikato University & Toi Ohomai. In 2014 I graduated in the top 1% of my class.

I began my design career in 2015 as a junior designer at a small web studio in Spain while on my OE. Returning to New Zealand, I worked in design studios in Mt Maunganui and Papamoa from 2015 to mid-2018, gaining experience managing fast-paced client requests alongside larger ongoing projects. In 2018, I moved into an in-house role as a Graphic Designer at the head office for both Bayleys & EVES, collaborating on a wide range of projects for nearly six years. After relocating to Wellington in 2024, I became the sole creative designer for Federated Farmers, working across the brand, related industries, national events, and government communications.

I bring a broad skill set across both fast-turnaround projects and large-scale campaigns, collaborating with diverse clients and cross-functional teams to deliver strategic, impactful design solutions. My work spans multiple industries and sectors, backed by strong technical expertise across a wide range of disciplines.

Ten years on, I am still in love with all things design, and I am very fortunate that I have transformed my passion into a career where I am finding myself inspired every day!

& on a personal level?

Originally from Christchurch, I moved to Tauranga in 2012 and spent the next 11 years there. In early 2024, I relocated to Wellington, and after 18 months in the capital I’m now heading back to my roots with a permanent move back home to Christchurch.

I love travelling, and I’m also a passionate foodie and wine collector. Outside of work, you’ll usually find me jetting off somewhere spontaneously with my husband, Isaac; often wine tasting across Marlborough or Central Otago, or long-lunching at one of my favourite restaurants around the country. I’m drawn to both the refined and unexpected! Some recent highlights include standing beneath the pyramids of Giza, dining at Michelin star restaurants in Spain, visiting the border of the North Korean DMZ and eating unknown street-foods in China! I’m always chasing new experiences, especially the kind that leave you with an amazing story and once-in-a-lifetime memories.

At home, I’m an avid reader, and absolutely must have my Kindle on me at all times! I also have a growing collection of coffee table books spanning art, photography, wine, and vintage Vogue and Condé Nast editions. I’ve always loved fashion and interior decorating, both being personal creative expressions that keep me inspired, curious, and connected to the aesthetics I value most.

I believe that a well-lived life is one rooted in taste, intention, experiences and a deep appreciation for the things that bring quiet joy.