By Imogen Trupinic – Senior Planner at Thomas Consultants
Getting a resource consent can feel like navigating a maze. That’s where your planner comes in – they’re your guide, negotiator, and cheerleader all rolled into one. But with so many options, finding the right fit can be daunting. Fear not! Here’s the lowdown on what to look for:
Master Communicator
This isn’t just about jargon-busting. You need a planner who can confidently chat with Council, specialists, and even you! Someone easy to talk to, who explains things clearly, is worth their weight in gold.
Process Pro
Bigger projects need experienced navigators. Look for someone who’s seen it all and can navigate the entire consent journey, from initial drafts to final approvals. Bonus points if they’ve worked with engineers and surveyors – teamwork makes the dream work! For smaller projects, a junior planner under a senior’s wing is fine – they’ll learn from the best.
Council Whisperer
Someone who’s walked in Council’s shoes knows what they want to see. Choose a planner who’s familiar with their procedures and can get you all the right info upfront to avoid those dreaded “Section 92” requests for more paperwork.
Your Development Champion
They’re not just there to rubber-stamp your plans. You want a planner who believes in your project and proactively flags any potential roadblocks before you hit them. That way, you can adjust course and avoid surprises down the line.
We’ve Got Your Back
The planning team at Thomas Consultants is a dream team of experienced planners, each with a unique skillset. We’ve all worked with/for Council and know the engineering and surveying teams inside out. We’ll even assess your project’s potential risks and future consent needs upfront, so you know exactly what you’re getting into.
Ready to ditch the maze and get your resource consent? Contact us today! Learn more about our planning services and meet your future project team.
