First-of-its-kind local governance qualification launched

A new university-accredited qualification that formally recognises the complex work of local government elected members is a major boost to the sector, LGNZ says.

The qualification was launched by Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) and Te Herenga Waka–Victoria University of Wellington subsidiary Kāpuhipuhi Wellington Uni-Professional, with courses set to commence this September.

“Elected members in local government make difficult decisions and demonstrate effective strategic planning whilst operating under intense public scrutiny. It’s an incredibly tough gig which requires a wide-ranging skillset,” LGNZ President Rehette Stoltz says.

“For councils, this new qualification pathway is a practical way to upskill and invest in their elected members. It strengthens decision-making skills, governance responsibilities, and financial literacy.

“It also provides elected members with the opportunity to gain qualifications that will aid their leadership careers in the future.”

“This micro-credential pathway is a first for tertiary education in New Zealand, where courses developed and delivered by a sector association are accredited by a university and provide credit towards formal post-graduate university qualifications,” Chief Executive of Wellington Uni-Professional Jeremy Baker says.

“The micro-credentials have been designed specifically for elected members to build upon their existing capability and real-world experience in the sector.

“Internationally, local government elected members often have access to professional development or governance training to support them in their roles. These micro-credentials are unique in that they are specifically designed for the complex skills required in New Zealand local governance.

"We expect micro-credentials and qualification pathways to become more visible within public and private sectors in the future, and we congratulate LGNZ for committing to their members and their future careers.”

Elected members can study towards a Certified Local Governance Practitioner (Level 7), with the opportunity to progress to the Certified Local Governance Advanced Practitioner (Level 8).

Invercargill City Councillor and LGNZ Young Elected Members Network Chair Alex Crackett says the micro-credentials are particularly beneficial for young elected members.

“Many young elected members put their studies or career progression on hold to take up a role in local government, or delay further study and career opportunities while they serve on council. After years of hard work serving their communities, they often have no formal qualification to show for that experience, which can make it challenging if they later decide to move on from the local government sector,” she says.

“Historically, elected members have come to local governance at the tail end of their careers, but this has changed significantly over the years. This term, there are 147 young elected members on councils around the country. That’s a significant increase from the 97 members last term.

“Being able to formally demonstrate the many skills that are required as an elected member is hugely valuable to someone at the early stages of their career.”

The six micro-credentials that make up the qualification pathway recognise the complexity of an elected member’s role and span three core topics: governance and leadership, finance and risk, and communication and engagement.

A micro-credential is a short, focused course that equates to five university credits and is delivered online over a maximum of 18 weeks. No prior qualifications are required.

Expressions of interest are open for elected members and the course is already in high demand.

More information can be found here.