To better connect and serve their communities, NRC asked us to develop a social media strategy, building on our research into their Māori audience. While their existing platforms were well-managed, they wanted to maximise resources, reach priority audiences, and create more meaningful connections with residents.

We developed a comprehensive social media strategy centred on the concept of "Your Community Voice." This approach emphasised active listening and understanding, captured in the whakatauki "Ma te whakarongo ka mārama tātou" (Through listening we understand).

The strategy had four key content pou – Storytelling, Ambassadors, Rangatiratanga, and Repurpose – and provided detailed channel-specific recommendations, content guidelines, and measurement frameworks. Notably, the strategy recognised the need to engage younger Māori audiences through platform-appropriate content and to foster deeper connections with tangata whenua.

"The strategy provided NRC with a clear roadmap for transforming their social media presence from broadcast to conversation," explains Hemisphere Managing Director, Dr Tim Antric. "By privileging community voice and values, we were able to enhance their digital engagement capabilities and set them up for long-term success," he said.

We’re looking forward to seeing the ongoing engagement generated from this mahi. And to watch as NRC continues to take part in the journeys across each community. We have since delivered numerous projects for NRC, including He Toa Takitini Community Engagement Strategy and a number of campaigns and consultations.