Mark Poynter

Biography

Mark has over 40 years of experience in ecology and is currently based in our Northland office in New Zealand. A specialist marine ecologist, his professional experience includes ecological and water quality impact assessment; environmental management; design and implementation of monitoring programmes; and peer review. He has a 30-year plus involvement with the development and operation of large port infrastructure (previous Northland Port Corporation, Northport, and Eastland Port) and small ports (seven marina developments). He also has a wide range of other project experience, including marine farm development (mussels), which has also required assessment and monitoring of offshore coastal environments and interaction with other disciplines, including planners, coastal engineers, biosecurity, marine mammal and avian experts and legal advisors.

Mark previously ran his own environmental practice for 24 years and has worked for several environmental consultancies. He has provided scientific and resource management advice to a wide client base which includes corporate and private sectors and local government.

His work routinely requires analysis of the NZ Coastal Policy Statement, National Environmental Standards, regional plans and related documents. He also has extensive experience in expert caucusing, mediation and consultation with iwi and resource users as part of his work under the RMA. He is an experienced expert witness before both Judicial Committees and the Environment Court.

His extensive experience helps provide knowledge and practical support to our consultant team and helps to ensure the smooth and timely delivery of various stages of a project.