Dr Morgan Tracy-Mines

I am writing to express my interest in the Technical Lead – Planning and Policy position at NZTA. With over six years of experience working at the intersection of ecology, environmental planning, and statutory policy and planning, I bring a strong foundation in resource management, stakeholder engagement, and cross-sector project leadership. I am confident in my ability to contribute to national consistency in planning practice and to support NZTA’s strategic environmental and transport outcomes.

With a strong technical background in ecology, I have led complex, multi-year environmental projects across the South Island, particularly in Canterbury’s braided river systems and the Mackenzie District. In my current role with a national ecological consultancy, I manage large-scale projects from proposal through to delivery, including preparing and reviewing plan submissions, interpreting regional and district plans, and providing clear, outcomes-focused planning advice.

I have in-depth knowledge of the RMA, relevant National Policy Statements (including NPS-FM and NPS-IB), and Regional and District Plan processes. My experience working alongside local and central government, tangata whenua, landowners, and developers has strengthened my ability to influence policy outcomes and integrate technical information into the planning process. I’m adept at communicating complex issues to a range of stakeholders and ensuring projects align with both statutory requirements and environmental best practice.

Passionate about protecting Aotearoa New Zealand’s indigenous biodiversity, I bring a high level of professionalism, strategic thinking, and integrity to every project. I am also committed to strengthening my understanding of Te Ao Māori and actively uphold the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi in my work.

I would welcome the opportunity to bring my ecological expertise and planning experience into a leadership role that shapes national best practice. My CV follows below for your consideration and I would be happy to provide further information upon request.

Ngā mihi nui,

Dr Morgan Tracy-Mines

• Led or contributed to over 150 ecological and planning projects across New Zealand, with a focus on Canterbury and the South Island, providing high-quality technical advice aligned with RMA and National Policy Statement requirements.
• Assisted in securing over $3 million in consultancy contracts over three years, through successful client engagement, proposal development, and delivery of trusted planning and ecological advice.
• Developed and reviewed technical reports, Ecological Impact Assessments, Assessments of Environmental Effects and planning submissions for District and Regional Plan changes, consent applications, and large-scale developments.
• Regularly engaged with a wide range of stakeholders—including local authorities, government agencies, tangata whenua, and private clients—to align ecological and planning outcomes.
• Recognised for consistently exceeding client expectations and maintaining project delivery to a high professional standard, under tight timeframes and regulatory complexity.