Buckton Expands with Acquisition of The Planning Collective

Together, we are pleased to announce Buckton Surveyors and Planners has acquired The Planning Collective, effective 01 April 2026.

The Planning Collective is a well-regarded planning consultancy with a strong track record across resource consents, subdivision applications and plan change work. The business has built a reputation for clear advice, careful statutory interpretation and effective management of complex planning processes.

Buckton Surveyors and Planners has over 60 years of experience in land surveying, planning and ecology, and has played a key role in shaping growth in Warkworth and neighbouring areas, whilst continuing to grow its presence into Auckland, Kaipara and Northland.

Bringing together these two complementary and closely aligned teams, enhances our collective capability and expands our in-house expertise. This enables us to coordinate projects efficiently, respond promptly to technical matters, and confidently support increasingly complex proposals.

How we will work going forward

The Planning Collective will continue to operate under its existing brand for the foreseeable future. Burnette O’Connor will lead the planning services and will take on the role of Planning Manager across both businesses, ensuring continuity, consistency and strong professional oversight.

What this means for our clients

Most importantly, current client arrangements for Buckton Surveyors and Planners and The Planning Collective remain unchanged:

• You will continue to work with the same people you know and trust.

• The way we work with you day to day will not change.

• Your existing projects and timelines and your projects will continue without disruption.

Maintaining continuity, consistency and client relationships is a top priority throughout this transition.

How this benefits our clients

As a subsidiary of Buckton, The Planning Collective now has access to the broader team of surveyors and ecologists. The two teams working alongside one another strengthens our planning capability and expands the depth of experience available to clients.

We’re confident this acquisition enhances our ability to support you now and into the future.

Buckton Directors, Richard Cullen and Tony Hayman, say they look forward to leading this next phase of growth and building a strong capability available to clients.

We greatly value our client relationships and look forward to continuing to work alongside you on your future projects.

Richard Cullen

Director | Buckton Surveyors and Planners & The Planning Collective

Tony Hayman

Director | Buckton Surveyors and Planners & The Planning Collective

Burnette O’Connor

Planning Manager | Buckton Surveyors and Planners & The Planning Collective