About Wendy...
I didn't set out to start a business built on empathy. I got here through twenty-five years spent in residential architecture, helping people navigate one of the biggest decisions of their lives — where and how they'll live. Somewhere in those years, working alongside families making decisions about their homes, I realised the hardest part was rarely the practical logistics. It was everything underneath: the letting go, the memories tied up in objects, the fear of getting it wrong.
I bring that same care to Designing Moves.
I grew up believing that "do your best" mattered more than the outcome — and that everyone deserves a seat at the table, regardless of background, gender, or how much they have. That belief has stayed with me through more than 40 years around motorsport, where I've spent as much time helping others get to the start line — as a competitor, an official, and an advocate for equity in a traditionally male-dominated sport — as I've spent racing myself. I know what it means to support someone through something difficult, at their pace, without judgement.
That's what I bring into every client's home. I'm not there to tell you what to keep. I'm there to listen first — to understand what "done" actually looks like for you — and then to help you get there, one considered decision at a time.
I moved to Taupō two years ago, but this place has held a piece of my heart for as long as I can remember. Huka Falls mesmerised me as a child, long before I ever imagined living in its shadow. Now, with Mt Tauhara in view from my own home, I understand why so many people choose to spend their later years here — and why leaving a long-time home, even for something better, can feel like such an enormous thing to navigate.
If you're facing that kind of transition — whether it's a move, or simply creating a home that finally feels manageable again — I'd be glad to help you find your way through it, one step at a time.
Wendy Metcalfe Founder, Designing Moves
Frequently Asked Questions
A little more about Designing Moves and how the services work
Why did you create Designing Moves?
After helping my own family navigate multiple downsizing transitions — including a retirement village move during a period of ill-health — I saw firsthand how overwhelming it can be. The emotions, the decisions, the logistics. What mattered most each time was honouring their wishes and focusing on what this next chapter needed to look like for them. I kept thinking: there has to be a better way to support people through this. So I created one.
What makes Designing Moves different?
I'm not a traditional moving company. Working with Mark Rantin Architecture, I bring architectural expertise to downsizing moves — creating dimensioned floor plans so you know exactly what fits in your new home before moving day. No guessing, no surprises.
Who is Designing Moves for?
Downsizing homeowners moving to retirement villages, apartments, or smaller homes
Adult children and families helping parents navigate transitions
Professional advisors — real estate agents, financial advisors, and care coordinators supporting clients through moves
Anyone in Taupō ready for a more manageable lifestyleEnter your content.
How do I get started?
Book a complimentary 30-minute phone or video call — a relaxed, no-obligation conversation about your situation and how Designing Moves can help. Particularly useful for family members arranging support for parents from out of town.
Book via the contact page — available weekday afternoons from 2:30 pm and weekends by appointment.
When should planning start?
Ideally three months out — enough time to make considered decisions without pressure. That said, I can usually work with whatever timeframe you have.
Call me before you start packing.
What Services does Designing Moves offer
Services can be booked independently or in combination:
Space Planning — measured floor plans for your new home, in collaboration with Mark Rantin Architecture ($100/hr)
Move Planning — a formal Move Planner covering packing plans, staged activities, and contractor bookings ($80/hr)
4-Stream Sorting — on-site sorting support using the 4-Stream colour system ($45/hr, or $320 for a full-day weekend booking)
Possession Inventory — itemised record with optional photography, available as a standalone service (POA)
Estate Clearance — compassionate support for families managing an estate (POA)
A complimentary 30-minute consultation is the best place to start.
What is the 4-Stream System?
A simple, structured sorting framework — Treasure & Keep, Value & Profit, Gift & Good, and Recycle & Remove — that helps you make confident decisions about your belongings. We work at your pace, with no pressure, to thoughtfully curate what comes with you into your next home.
How does pricing work?
All services are charged at an hourly or fixed rate — there is no minimum package and no lock-in. You can engage Designing Moves for a single session or across multiple services, depending on what your move requires.
A rate card is available on request. All prices include GST.
Will you work with my preferred moving company?
Yes — I'll coordinate with your preferred movers and packers, or recommend trusted Taupō professionals if needed.
Do you provide Estate Services?
I provide specialised estate services for executors and trustees managing property after bereavement — including comprehensive inventories and respectful, culturally sensitive handling of significant possessions. Contact me for a tailored quote.
What about locations outside Taupō?
My face-to-face service is currently based in Taupō. Contact me to discuss virtual or remote options.
I'm a professional — can we work together?
Yes — building a trusted local network is a priority for me. Get in touch and let's talk about how we can work together.