Kirsty is an environmental and resource management specialist with a proven track record advising on New Zealand’s most significant infrastructure and development projects. She brings deep expertise in navigating complex consenting processes (including fast-track consenting processes), district and regional planning frameworks, and policy reforms.

Clients turn to Kirsty for strategic advice on resource consent applications, notices of requirement, and planning matters across infrastructure, utilities, and major developments. She is also at the forefront of Resource Management reform, advising clients on the evolving legislative landscape and proposed national policy statements.

Kirsty advises on all aspects of the Resource Management Act 1991 and related legislation. Her experience includes advising:

• Nelson Airport on resource management matters, including obtaining the necessary environmental and planning approvals to enable the future northern extension of the airport's main operational runway.

• The Port of Auckland on a major project to extend the Bledisloe and Fergusson wharves to enhance berthing options - the first project to be approved under the Fast-track Approvals Act 2024.

• A range of clients on use of the Fast-track approvals process, including getting projects referred to be able to use the process.

• KiwiRail Holdings Limited on a range of plan change processes across the country.

• Watercare on resource management and planning matters, including resource consents and notices of requirements fora number of significant projects including the next phases of the Central Interceptor (a NZ$1.2 billion wastewater interceptor) and associated water quality improvement projects in Central Auckland.

• Knight Investments Limited in on its business park development in Beachlands, which was approved under the COVID-19 Recovery (Fast-track Consenting) Act 2020.

• Tauranga Crossing on resource management matters for the development of this major retail and commercial centre.

• Drury South Limited on the development of Drury South Crossing, a major mixed-use development in Drury, Auckland.

• A range of clients on district plan changes and reviews throughout New Zealand, shaping planning outcomes at the local and regional level.