9th June @ 10:00am - 12:00pm & 16th June 2026 @ 10:00am - 11:00am (3 hours total)
Overview
Effective public relations practice requires more than strong messaging in NZ. Many cases call for cultural understanding, integrity, and a genuine commitment to Tiriti-based principles. This dynamic, practice-focused workshop is designed to equip PR professionals with the tools and confidence to work responsibly and respectfully within an Aotearoa context.
Whether you are completely new to Tiriti-based practices or looking to strengthen your current approach, this session provides clear, practical guidance you can apply immediately in your communications work.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:
- Explore Tiriti-based principles and their relevance for PRINZ work.
- Identify practical ways to embed te reo Māori (Māori language) and tikanga Māori (customs and practices) into day-to-day PR work
- Build confidence to engage respectfully with Māori perspectives in professional contexts.
Workshop Structure
The session is strongly practice-focused, with emphasis on practical actions you can apply immediately in your PR and communications work:
- Working Responsibly in an Aotearoa Context
- A brief overview of expectations for professional practice, with regard to Te Tiriti o Waitangi
- Using Te Reo Māori and Tikanga Appropriately
- Practical guidance on:
- Using te reo Māori confidently and correctly in written and spoken communications
- Understanding basic tikanga and how it influences professional interactions
- Reflection and Next Steps
- Guided discussion to identify simple, achievable actions.
Your facilitators are:
Jennifer Leahy – Facilitator
Jennifer Leahy is an experienced adult educator and facilitator with a strong national profile in professional learning and development. She has worked across the tertiary education, corrections, corporate, and community sectors. Her facilitation style is practical, inclusive, and grounded in real-world experience, with a strong focus on engaging adult learners and supporting reflective professional practice.
Charmaine Tukua-Pouwhare – Consultant and Co-facilitator
Charmaine Tukua-Pouwhare, Te Taumata Tapu o Ngāi Tuāhuriri, is a senior educator at Ara Institute of Canterbury. She has served as a kaiako, programme leader, and currently as the operations coordinator at Te Puna Wānaka, Ara’s Māori education unit. Her leadership has been instrumental in enhancing Māori learners’ engagement and success in tertiary education. In addition, Charmaine has actively contributed to national literacy training and qualification delivery, ensuring culturally responsive educational practices.
