Research Officer with the Institute of Public Policy. She is currently involved with the Metropolitan Development Programme (MDP), the Graduate Diploma in Economic Development and the Institutional Strengthening Project in Samoa. Marie-Renee is a graduate of the University of Quebec in Montreal, Canada, where she completed a Masters degree in Urban Studies. Her thesis examined the possibilities for local economic development in Newfoundland and Labrador.  She is also working towards a Master of Philosophy in Economic Development. This compares local economic development practices between Auckland and Montreal.