Kathryn Drew

Kathryn joined BBO in 2008 as a Planner and now leads the company’s planning team. She holds a Bachelor of Resource and Environmental Planning degree from Massey University, is a Full Member of the NZ Planning Institute, is an MfE accredited Hearing Commissioner, and is currently completing an MBA at the University of Waikato.

With over 20 years’ experience in resource management planning, Kathryn is known for delivering practical, high-quality planning advice that gets results. She has led the successful consenting and planning strategy for a wide range of projects – from large-scale residential and retirement village developments to complex plan changes and Environment Court proceedings, as well as fast-track consenting applications. Kathryn is trusted by both private clients and councils to navigate the consenting process efficiently and effectively.

Kathryn has held a number of leadership roles within BBO, including establishing the Tauranga office as Regional Leader – Bay of Plenty in 2020. After two years in that role, she returned to Hamilton as Land Development Manager, and in 2024 was also appointed Planning Manager. In April 2025, her role shifted to focus solely on leading BBO’s planning team.

Kathryn’s strengths lie in simplifying technical matters, coordinating specialist inputs, and ensuring projects stay on track and meet statutory requirements. She has profound experience in preparing and reviewing resource consent applications (including under fast-track pathways), private plan changes, and planning evidence for hearings.

Clients value Kathryn’s clear communication, practical advice, and in-depth understanding of both council and central government processes.