With a strong background in navigating complex planning challenges and a clear passion for creating practical, people-focused solutions, Matthew brings a thoughtful, collaborative approach to everything he does. I caught up with him to find out more about him.
So Matthew, you’ve had a successful career in planning, working on some great developments across a range of industries. What originally drew you to planning?
“My journey into planning felt like a natural fit for me, driven by my passion for problem-solving and helping people navigate complex situations. I’ve always been someone who enjoys understanding different perspectives, balancing competing needs, and finding creative, practical solutions. Planning allows me to do exactly that, creating outcomes that work for both people and the environment. It’s a career where my curiosity, attention to detail, and desire to make a tangible impact align perfectly.”
What do you love most about your job?
“There are so many things, but mainly the challenge of balancing diverse interests and crafting solutions that work for everyone. Whether it’s finding common ground between technical experts, applicants, or submitters, I thrive on the process of collaboration and problem-solving.
I’m passionate about delivering practical, innovative planning solutions that not only meet regulatory requirements but also support the aspirations of developers, helping bring impactful projects to life in ways that benefit both the community and the environment.”
And any misconceptions you’d love to bust?
“The belief that Planning is solely about drawing maps, a one-size-fits-all approach, or a top-down, authoritarian practice. When in reality, it’s a complex, data-driven, and participatory process.”
What’s the strangest job you’ve worked on?
“This question takes me back to my days as a graduate. I was looking at an application for a dwelling in a new subdivision. There were three-bedroom spaces indicated on the floor plan, but no internal walls beyond the bathroom. Certainly, a different way of living!”
So Matthew no interview is complete without a few fun questions. Do you have a go-to dish in the kitchen?
“I recently stumbled across a braised pork recipe online and have tried making it a few times. It’s rather tasty!”
Sounds delicious, do you have a go to artist or album to cook or work to?
“I regularly get lost in a Lo-Fi mix on YouTube. A great way to focus when needed.”
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be?
“The finalists from Culinary Class Wars (Netflix series) (a must watch, by the way). The spread would be incredible. It’d be great to pick their brains on flavours, technique, etc.”
If you were a superhero, and had one superpower, what would you choose?
“Teleportation, hands down. Imagine being able to travel around the globe in the blink of an eye! Mind blowing potential right there.”
Who inspires you?
“If I had to pick one person, maybe the late Zaha Hadid and her award-winning architectural firm. The fluidity of her design style blurs the lines between architecture and sculpture. Her work belongs to the future, I reckon.”
And finally, I hear you are an intrepid travel and have recently spend some time away, tell me more about that?
“Yeah, so I spent most of last year traveling the globe, including Western and Central Europe, and East Asia. My new favourite spots in the world are Copenhagen and the Dolomites, I’d recommend them as dream destinations to anyone who is able to visit.”
Thanks, Matthew, it’s been great to find out more about you, and we’re delighted to have you as part of the Planz whānau.
Have, you got a planning challenge? Matthew and our Dunedin team offer practical, and collaborative planning solutions to help bring your project to life. Get in touch with the team we’d love to work with you.
