Make the Move Learning Series Training

This three-part learning series weaves knowledge, inspiration, practical experience and
collective intelligence to build
your capability as a public policy professional enabling community-led change.

A view from a different place Story

Last Christmas, longstanding Inspiring Communities team member, Margy-Jean Malcolm, stepped out and into a new stage of community life in her new home town of New Plymouth. With a lifelong commitment to community development that spans back to the 1970s in Wellington, we want to acknowledge the huge contribution that Margy-Jean has made to understandings and practice of community development here in Aotearoa. Her various professional and volunteer roles have seen her inspire, guide and support communities and leaders right across the motu, with her generosity of spirit, time and wise counsel appreciated by many.

Connecting Hearts: The Revitalisation of Coppard Reserve in Leithfield Village Story

Nestled along the banks of the Kowai River lies Leithfield Village, a service hub founded in 1857 for the surrounding rural and milling communities. At the heart of the village lies the Coppard Reserve—a place where the spirit of community now thrives. Through conversations with Vanessa Nelmes, the Community Partnerships Coordinator at Hurunui District Council, and Jo Hassall, an active member and Chair of the Leithfield Community Centre, we learn more about how this once overlooked space has been transformed into a cherished community hub.

Staying on the Edge – Reflections from Darwin Story

Our CLD Coordination and Practice Lead, Megan Courtney, shares her experiences at the World Community Development Conference in Darwin, June 2023. Reflecting on indigineous leadership, the progress and growing commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and decolonisation here in Aotearoa and the importance of forming trust and enduring relationships. She also delves into the differing perspectives around community development practice standards and professional qualifications, and what role of CLD has in the community.

Online Learning Module Training

Inspiring Communities has developed this learning module from what we have learnt over many years of working with and alongside communities across Aotearoa New Zealand. Represented here are the stories, experiences and initiatives of many community-led groups. We acknowledge the communities and people who have built this body of knowledge and practice, contributed to its growth and shared their learning.