Debbie Tikao is Principal Landscape Architect at Natural Habitats with 16 years of experience working on a diverse range of project types including parks, landscape rehabilitation, commercial developments, urban streetscapes, roof gardens, civic space design, environmental, institutional and private mixed use residential design projects.

Debbie is particularly talented in producing creative design solutions with a strong environmental and cultural focus, be it for an intimate urban space or a large landscape rehabilitation project.  Her design ability is balanced with sound practical knowledge and skills in project management and contract administration.   

She is also experienced in working with other parties such as community groups, Iwi, design focus groups, Council and artists in arts collaborations. Other areas of expertise include Landscape Assessment, expert witness, and being part of a design committee.

Debbie has continued her professional development, with a number of short courses including a project management course at Auckland University School of Business and the New Zealand Green Building Council. She recently spoke at the NZ Parks & Recreation Conference, and has published several articles in reputable landscape journals. She currently manages the Natural Habitats design consultancy department.

A registered landscape architect with the NZILA, Debbie received a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture and a Diploma of Landscape Design from Unitec. She is also a member of the Unitec Bachelor of Landscape Architecture Advisory Panel.