WPR has been named as a finalist in the prestigious Golden World Awards, run by the International Public Relations Association (IPRA).
WPR is a finalist in the Community Relations – Agency category, recognising its role working with local iwi, Ngāti Koata.
The agency supported Ngāti Koata and its CCKV Maitahi Development partners in engaging the public around plans to build affordable housing for whānau on land in Kākā Valley, Nelson/Whakatū. The campaign focused on providing accurate, transparent information and facilitating engagement grounded in Ngāti Koata values.
“Authenticity, humility, respect and being mindful of the cultural heart and soul of the project were tremendously important,” says WPR Principal Advisor Jacquie Boer.
“Our communication approach centred on the need to supply correct, verifiable information to the community and to acknowledge Ngāti Koata’s undeniable credibility as recognised kaitiaki (guardians) of the natural environment.”
The project has since received rezoning consent and Nelson City Council has committed $31 million to enable infrastructure and housing investment.
“I’m honoured that our work has been recognised by IPRA alongside world-class public relations campaigns,” says Boer. “IPRA works to promote enhanced standards of ethics and social responsibility in public relations practice – two values that are deeply important to us at WPR.”
“In working with Ngāti Koata and CCKV, our focus was on the people behind the project—sharing their values and vision. That was the most powerful way to foster understanding and gain support from the community.”
Winners of the IPRA Golden World Awards will be announced in July (www.ipra.org).
