Clear communication is one of the most powerful tools councils have to build connection with their communities, strengthen reputation, and inspire action.

In this interactive workshop, you’ll learn practical techniques to make your writing faster, clearer, and more effective for local government audiences. Through real-world council scenarios, group discussions, and hands-on exercises, you’ll practise planning and editing your messages for maximum clarity and impact. You’ll explore how to write in your council’s brand voice, simplify complex information, and create content that builds trust and inspires action.

By the end of the course, you'll be equipped with:

• A practical framework for planning and reviewing your writing
• Tools to edit for clarity, conciseness, and Plain English
• Strategies to communicate with transparency and professionalism
• Confidence in creating digital and print messages that connect with residents, iwi, and community groups

Register Here

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Meet the Trainer

Helen Steemson

This course is developed and run by Helen Steemson, a highly experienced copywriter and trainer. She has delivered training for some of New Zealand’s largest brands as well as local government and public sector organisations, including Horowhenua District Council, Waikato District Council, Palmerston North City Council, Waipā Networks, Immigration New Zealand and Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu.

Helen facilitates the Marketing Association’s most popular writing course and has lectured at Auckland University of Technology. As Creative Director and founder of Words for Breakfast writing agency, she brings current, hands-on industry expertise to every course.

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