Leadership and Governance Programme

About the Programme

The Leadership and Governance Programme for NZ Local Government Councils is a comprehensive initiative designed to enhance the capabilities of elected officials and senior managers across New Zealand's local government sector. Developed in collaboration with governance experts, experienced councillors, and leadership specialists, this programme addresses the unique challenges and responsibilities faced by local government leaders in today's rapidly changing environment.

Local government in New Zealand plays a vital role in communities across the country. Councils are responsible for delivering essential services, making decisions that affect thousands of residents, managing significant budgets, and ensuring sustainable development. Effective leadership and governance are fundamental to fulfilling these responsibilities successfully and maintaining public trust.

This programme provides participants with the knowledge, skills, and practical tools needed to excel in their governance roles. Through a blend of theoretical learning, case studies, interactive workshops, and peer networking, participants will develop a deeper understanding of best practices in local government leadership and governance.

Programme Objectives

The Leadership and Governance Programme aims to achieve several key objectives:

• Strengthen participants' understanding of the principles, roles, and responsibilities of local government governance in New Zealand.
• Enhance strategic thinking capabilities and long-term visioning skills for local community development.
• Develop effective decision-making frameworks that balance diverse community interests and evidence-based approaches.
• Improve financial literacy and stewardship of public resources.
• Foster ethical leadership practices and strengthen integrity in public service.
• Build collaborative relationships between elected members, council staff, and community stakeholders.
• Enhance communication and engagement skills to effectively represent community interests.
• Develop crisis management and resilience capabilities for local governance.
• Ensure participants understand and can navigate the legislative and regulatory framework governing local government in New Zealand.
• Create a network of local government leaders for ongoing peer support, knowledge sharing, and collaboration.

Who Should Participate?

The programme is designed for elected officials including mayors, councillors, and community board members, as well as senior council managers and those aspiring to leadership roles within local government. It benefits both experienced leaders looking to refresh their knowledge and those new to their governance responsibilities.

Councils are encouraged to send teams that include both elected members and senior staff to maximize the learning benefits and foster stronger working relationships within their organization.

Programme Modules

The Leadership and Governance Programme is structured around six comprehensive modules:

Module 1: Foundations of Local Governance

This introductory module explores the historical context and current structure of New Zealand's local government system. Participants will examine the Local Government Act 2002, the principles that underpin local governance, and the relationship between central and local government. Through case studies and discussion, participants will develop a robust understanding of their statutory roles and responsibilities.

Module 2: Strategic Leadership and Vision Setting

Effective governance requires forward-thinking leadership. This module develops participants' ability to create and communicate compelling visions for their communities. It covers strategic planning methodologies, long-term community plan development, setting measurable objectives, and monitoring progress. Participants will work with practical tools that can be directly applied in their council contexts.

Module 3: Financial Literacy and Resource Management

Sound financial stewardship is essential for councils. This module builds confidence in reading and understanding financial statements, budgeting processes, and long-term financial planning. Participants will explore responsible fiscal management, investment decision-making, and the balance between immediate community needs and long-term financial sustainability.

Module 3: Decision Making in Complex Environments

Local government leaders regularly face complex decisions with competing priorities. This module enhances critical thinking and evidence-based decision-making skills. It covers analyzing complex issues, managing uncertainty, evaluating options, and understanding the implications of decisions. Participants will explore frameworks for ethical decision-making and managing conflicts of interest.

Module 4: Community Engagement and Communication

Effective governance requires meaningful community engagement. This module develops skills in communication, consultation methods, and inclusive engagement practices. Participants will learn how to reach diverse community groups, gather meaningful input, and incorporate community perspectives into decision-making processes.

Module 5: Collaborative Governance and Partnership Building

Modern challenges require collaborative approaches. This module explores working effectively with iwi/Mori, building partnerships with other councils and agencies, and enabling community-led initiatives. Participants will develop skills for negotiation, conflict resolution, and creating shared value through collaboration.

Module 6: Leading Change and Building Resilience

This module focuses on managing change, building organizational and community resilience, and adapting to emerging trends that impact local governance. Topics include managing crises, navigating digital transformation, addressing environmental challenges, and fostering innovation in local government.

Learning Approach

The Leadership and Governance Programme employs a variety of learning techniques to accommodate different learning styles and maximize retention:

• Interactive workshops facilitated by governance experts and experienced practitioners
• Real-world case studies from New Zealand and international local government contexts
• Small group discussions and peer learning experiences
• Practical exercises and simulations that mirror actual governance scenarios
• Pre-reading and resources to build foundational knowledge
• Action planning to implement learning in council contexts
• Access to a digital platform for ongoing resources and networking

Programme Benefits

For Councils:

• More effective and knowledgeable governance structures
• Better decision-making processes and outcomes
• Stronger collaboration between elected members and staff
• Enhanced ability to address complex community issues
• Greater financial stewardship and sustainability
• Improved community engagement and trust
• Increased resilience to manage change and challenges

Testimonials

"The Leadership and Governance Programme transformed how I approach my role as a councillor. The practical tools and insights from facilitators with real local government experience were invaluable. I've already implemented several approaches that have improved our council's decision-making processes."

- Sarah T., Councillor, Regional Council

The financial literacy modules gave me a much stronger foundation for understanding budgetary matters and long-term financial planning. I now feel more confident in asking the right questions and contributing meaningfully to financial discussions."

- Michael R., Community Board Chairperson

Having both elected members and senior staff participate from our council created a shared language and understanding that has significantly improved our working relationship and collaborative approach to governance challenges."

- David W., Chief Executive Officer, City Council

Programme Schedule

The Leadership and Governance Programme is offered in multiple formats to accommodate different schedules and preferences:

Intensive Format

A 4-day intensive program covering all six modules, with accommodation provided for residential participants. This format offers maximum immersion and networking opportunities.

Extended Format

Modules delivered over 6 months, with one module per month conducted over 1-2 days. This format allows for application of learning between sessions and helps fit around other commitments.

Customized Council Programme

Bespoke delivery tailored to specific council needs, conducted on-site or at a location convenient to participants. This format allows for deeper customization to local context and challenges.

The program is scheduled multiple times throughout the year at various locations across New Zealand. Please contact us for the current schedule and availability.

Investment

Intensive Format: $3,900 + GST per participant (includes all materials, meals, and accommodation where applicable)

Extended Format: $4,200 + GST per participant (includes all materials and meals during session days)

Customized Council Programme: Pricing based on specific requirements and number of participants

Early bird discounts are available for registrations received at least six weeks before the program commencement. Group pricing applies for three or more participants from the same council.