I feel so excited and privileged to service a second term as board member of Te Kokiringa Taumata - New Zealand Planning Institute as the Resource Management system we have known transforms/morphs to meet the challenges we and future generations face. The planning profession is critical to the Aotearoa New Zealand planning framework. Personally, I believe the “Wellbeing and Resilience” of every member is critical, as I have written about over the last year or so, especially so during a period of uncertain significant change as we currently face.
I as a planning professional use my passion for inclusion, being bold, building collaborative partnerships especially between government (central and local) and infrastructure sector to deliver win-win outcomes.
In my role at Spark, NZ’s largest digital service provider, I work nationwide providing specialist input into regional/district plans, resource consent applications and legislative/regulatory changes. Working in the digital technology space means I am always curious as to what opportunities this offer the profession.
“Times are changing fast, our profession has opportunities for the taking. But more than ever the purpose and value of the planning profession is being questioned. Members are challenged to rethink what is means to be a planner today and in the future. What will it mean in a world where algorithms, BOTs and AI are able to process consents more rapidly, accurately and cost efficiently or we can experience a Combined Plan in 3D? How can we set forth a strategic direction that takes hold of emerging opportunities ensuring a relevant, dynamic industry?”
I have worked in both the public sector (Auckland local government including Director/GM roles) and private sector (as a self-employed consultant; within a larger consultancy); and most recently for nine years for in two of NZ’s largest corporations.
Highlights of Graeme’s last 3 years on the Board includes establishment of PlanTechNZ; new constitution, on-line learning, financial stability and creation of new the Te Ao Maori board position.
In 2015 I received a Planning Practice Award for the ‘Collaborative consenting framework between Chorus and Auckland Mana Whenua’ and was recognised with a NZPI Distinguished Service Award in 2018.
This a great time to be a planner and member of Te Kokiringa Taumata - New Zealand Planning Institute.
