In love with planning – with graduate planner Alice Zhou

Urban planning wasn’t in Alice Zhou’s future. After completing a multimedia degree, a friend who was studying urban planning piqued Alice’s interest.

‘’I was so interested and intrigued by New Zealand culture.

‘’I wanted to learn more about Māori and how we connect to the land – I really resonated with the philosophy. I also love ecology and the environment and how, as planners, we can use our knowledge to help create a better and more sustainable community’’.  

A recent planning graduate at HG after studying urban planning at Auckland University, Alice is still soaking it all up working on a variety of different projects to see what she’s really interested in.

‘’A good, solid foundation is so important with planning. You have to keep abreast of all the planning legislation. Processing applications with council has been super helpful for a good solid base!’’

Alice has deep dived into planning, now a committee member of the Auckland NZPI Emerging Planner group.

Life at HG?

‘’I felt an immediate sense of warmth from the people here. The team culture is amazing – we’ve done mini golf, salad day, international curry day – our team is so fun!’’

‘’I grew up in Huzhou, China where there are lots of mountains and rivers in the city – lots of natural landscape. When I was 18, I moved to New Zealand on my own – I was so excited to explore the ‘’other end of the world’’ where there was a new language and culture’’.

When her head isn’t in the RMA and district plans, she is into cardio tennis.

‘’It’s a real sport! The movement with background is so much fun. I also love Pilates and hiking in nature to enjoy our beautiful New Zealand landscape.’’

Apply for the 2026 planning graduate program

The 2026 graduate planning programme at HG is now open for applications. Applications close 15 April, apply now