Jason is an experienced planner who began his career in land development in the Waikato region in 2000. Since then, he has worked with Central and Local Government, and private practice in both New Zealand and Scotland. Jason became Cheal’s Bay of Plenty Regional Manager in February 2025, joining us from Rotorua Lakes Council, where he served as Chief Planner and Manager of the Planning and Development Department. This department included the Resource Consent team, the Spatial and District Plan team, and the Building and Business Support teams.

Through his work in processing and approving consents, Jason has gained a deep understanding of council processes and developed a diverse skill set, spanning multiple disciplines, including consenting, policy, building, engineering, and urban design. Throughout his varied planning career, he has acquired extensive experience as a decision-maker on complex land development projects, tourism ventures, and comprehensive residential developments. Additionally, he has served as a Resource Management Hearings Commissioner, participating in multiple hearings where he has reviewed evidence, considered submissions, and made decisions regarding the redevelopment of the Tauranga Waterfront.

Jason has built an excellent reputation as a pragmatic and solutions-focused planner and an effective leader. Outside work, he enjoys spending time with his family, mountain biking in the forest, and windsurfing on the Rotorua Lakes.