BREP (Hons)
Planning Work Group Manager (Palmerston North) and Technical Principal- Planning for WSP

Our profession is strongest when we share our thoughts and aspirations. This was true in 2023 and will be even more important with changing Government direction ahead. NZPI has significant opportunity to work with the Government for a better planning framework and improved planning practice in New Zealand. This current board term I have been a member of NZPI’s RM Advisory Group to deliver timely, relevant and important messaging to Government about new planning systems. I am committed to continuing this work in the new board term if elected. I am passionate about the role planners have in shaping our future, and how planners are viewed and valued by the community.

I have been involved in the Central North Island Branch committee since 2007 and was on the NZPI Planning Advisory Committee for 3 years before taking my role on the Board. I am proud of the achievements and contributions I made in the Select Committee and submission processes over the last Board term representing you and our profession. I felt privileged to present to the Select Committee on behalf of the profession and highlight the amazing work planners do. I bring the perspective of planning in the provinces, diversity in planning and positively promoting our profession.

I am a Technical Principal for WSP based in Palmerston North. I have over 29 years experience working for a variety of clients and councils on infrastructure projects, and policy review and development, and delivering the making good decisions programme.

I bring to the NZPI Board:

  • Energy and enthusiasm to deliver the Strategic Plan, see the big picture, and make fiscally prudent decisions.
  • Ability to think strategically on how to advance the profession.
  • Having the wellbeing of planners at the forefront of what we do.
  • Promotion of the planning profession, the need for diversity and the importance of professional integrity and ethics.
  • A positive role model and image for the planning profession. Contributing ideas for how NZPI can positively influence legislative change and its implementation. I want planning to be seen in a positive and enabling manner, rather than being the scapegoat.
  • Ongoing commitment to mentoring and supporting emerging planners, and those seeking full membership. Continue my role as the membership convenor and on interview panels.
  • A proven collaborative and constructive working style with my fellow board members, the CEO and NZPI staff.

This is an exciting time to be a planner and I look forward to riding the ‘wave of change’ with you all. Always happy for you to reach out to me for a chat, to share ideas or just have someone to talk to!