Vanessa specialises in planning, infrastructure and environmental law. She has more than 25 years' experience acting for public and private sector clients on the consenting and delivery of complex transport, renewable energy, housing, urban development, and infrastructure projects. Vanessa advises clients on consenting and approvals strategies under the Planning Act 2026, Natural Environment Act 2026 and Fast-track Approvals Act 2024, including the transition from the Resource Management Act 1991. She works across the full project lifecycle, from business case development and options assessment through to statutory approvals, implementation and litigation.
Vanessa is known for her strategic and practical approach. She works closely with clients, technical experts, councils, mana whenua and other stakeholders to identify and manage risk, resolve difficult issues and deliver practical outcomes. Her experience includes major Te Tupu Ngātahi Supporting Growth Alliance transport projects, Auckland Transport’s level-crossing programmes, the East West Link, Auckland Light Rail and significant renewable energy, quarrying and urban development projects. She has acted on several successful fast-track applications and chaired a fast-track consenting panel. Vanessa also regularly represents clients in significant resource management litigation, including proceedings before the Supreme Court.
