DWC wins two awards

DWC was recognised for their work promoting the region as a great place to live, work, and do business, securing Silver Awards in two categories, 'Best Use of Media Relations' and 'PR In-House Team of the Year'.

DWC’s submission for the 'Best Use of Media Relations' category highlighted the media outreach around the ‘Cut out for the Coast’ campaign. The campaign stemmed from Te Whanaketanga Te Tai Poutini West Coast 2050 Strategy, which includes a mission aimed at boosting confidence and pride in the region, attracting the right people and investment by enhancing the West Coast’s regional profile.

During 2022, the West Coast enjoyed substantial media attention with DWC securing 179 national and international media stories portraying the West Coast in a positive light.

In collaboration with Te Whatu Ora Te Tai Poutini West Coast and the West Coast business community, a ‘Cut out for the Coast’ digital campaign was launched in October 2022. Within its first month, the campaign attracted 26 media features, including extensive television coverage and international stories featured in the UK Guardian, Sky News Australia, New York Times, and others.

This was DWC’s second time attending the PRINZ Awards, winning a Gold in 2022 for their media outreach around the GorseBusters initiative and was also a runner-up in the 'PR In-House Team of the Year' category.

DWC’s Marketing and Communications Manager, Aaron Rees said it was truly humbling to be recognised amongst some of the biggest marketing and PR firms in the country, as well as massive organisations with large in-house comms teams.

“The West Coast is pretty good at punching above its weight,” Rees said. “While DWC only has two comms staff, that doesn’t tell the full picture. Our wider team is constantly out meeting West Coast businesses keeping us up-to-date about all the amazing things happening in our region. So we are lucky to have a constant stream of positive Coast stories to share with the national media.”

“A massive thank you to all the Coasters who have worked with us to share their stories, and also a big thanks to our chief executive Heath who’s always willing to answer the phone / Zoom call for media interviews to promote the Coast, no matter what time in the morning!”

For the 2023 PRINZ Awards, a panel of over 50 judges from various sectors of the public relations profession reviewed 113 entries across all categories, ultimately selecting 33 finalists.

The Supreme Award was secured by NIWA for its media outreach on the underwater Tonga volcano eruption. Meanwhile, Lisa Tumahai accepted the Gold Award for ‘Best Use of Media Relations’ on behalf of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu for their climate change action plan and the unveiling of a world-first electric jet boat for tourism.