Marissa joined Planz in January 2023 after graduating from Otago University with a Master’s in planning. Her studies provided her with knowledge of resource management, transportation policies, impact assessments, and planning practices and principles.

Marissa undertook an internship at Aukaha, the organisation that serves as the consultation body representing the southern rūnaka of Ngāi Tahu. During the internship she was involved in cultural assessments, resource consents, and hearing evidence.