IAP2 Certification

Erin Jamieson

Community and Stakeholder Engagement is an important part of Convergence’s work. We have been awarded silver twice at the Public Relations Institute of New Zealand awards for recent community relations and engagement projects we have undertaken.

These include working with the Canterbury Museum on its $195 million redevelopment (concept design shown), and the Vote Phil Mauger for Mayor campaign.

To make sure our advice is best practice, and in line with current international thinking on engagement methods, three of Convergence’s staff have obtained their International Association of Public Participation (IAP2) qualification.

Being IAP2 qualified means our team is committed to democratic principles, transparency, and inclusive decision-making processes when it comes to community and stakeholder engagement. IAP2 qualifications ensure that professionals possess the necessary skills and knowledge to engage the public effectively.

IAP2’s robust toolkit of methods and techniques enable our consultants to foster meaningful conversations, build trust, and genuinely listen to diverse voices. In a world where social divisions and polarisation seem to be on the rise, these skills are invaluable for creating bridges, finding common ground and forging collaborative solutions.

We really enjoy undertaking stakeholder analysis, delivering effective communication and engagement strategies, and achieving successful conflict resolution outcomes for small and large clients alike.

News & Insights

Bringing balance to a community discussion on mining

When TiGa Minerals & Metals announced in March 2023 that it intended to apply for resource consents for a minerals mine on the Barrytown Flats of the South Island’s West Coast, the company became concerned at what it perceived as the lack of balance in the public discussion through local news and social media.

Leigh Harris

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The next 100 days: How will government reforms affect your business or organisation?

The National Party has long considered itself the ‘party of business’ with a sharp eye on economic wellbeing and productivity. However, following New Zealand First and Act negotiations, the new National-led coalition government demands quickly enacted reform and it needs to deliver huge swathes of replacement legislation and policy change.

Lisa-Marie Richan (L-M)

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7-point plan to tackle urgent infrastructure needs

This thought leadership piece by Convergence Strategic Consultant Dave Brash is getting wide pick up.

Dave Brash

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PR for NZ's biggest one-day festival

We’ve been working with Team Event for 14 years and this year we were thrilled to lead the public relations for the Electric Avenue Festival – providing media, social media, content creation, artist liaison and issues management services.

Jessica Cartwright

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Our new Partner explains 'Why Reputation Matters' in the Institute of Director's magazine

There is a new kind of literacy needed around the boardroom table. Directors who would not dream of walking into a boardroom without being able to read a balance sheet now need to ask themselves whether they and their colleagues are sufficiently literate in the language of reputation.

Marie Hosking

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Convergence continues Auckland expansion with acquisition and two new equity partners

Convergence Communications is strengthening its Auckland presence with the purchase of Auckland-based communications consultancy, Ramsgate Advisors, and the addition of two new equity partners – Rick Osborne and Marie Hosking.

Leigh Harris

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Plans revealed for high-profile site - $120 million development for Sumner

It was a pleasure to help market the $120 million, once-in-a-lifetime Beachside development at Sumner in Christchurch.

Lisa Gold

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