Nishka (Nikki) Rao

Nikki is an urban planner with experience working across both public and private sector projects. Her project experience spans residential, commercial, heritage, and environmentally sensitive developments. She has worked on a range of projects including multi-unit residential developments, subdivisions, emergency service facilities, technical facility expansion, and heritage boatshed refurbishment. 

Nikki has a diverse background that gives her a broad perspective on planning. She started in publishing in Singapore, working with High Commissions and embassies across the region. She then taught geography and traditional arts at a school for neurodivergent students. More recently, she worked in the marine sector, developing GIS-based spatial models to support ecological assessments and operational strategy. Planning has allowed her to bring these experiences together, combining practical skills with a genuine interest in supporting people and places.

Nikki holds a Bachelor’s degree in Geography (Environment & Sustainability) and Sociology from UBC in Canada, and a Master’s degree in Urban Planning and Urban Design from UoA in New Zealand. She is an intermediate member of the New Zealand Planning Institute (NZPI) and has completed certifications in permaculture and biomimicry, drawing inspiration from natural systems to inform her approach.

Outside of planning, Nikki is usually tending to an ever-growing plant collection, spending time with family and animals (same same), paddle boarding with friends, and gracefully (or not) defying gravity at aerial silks classes.