Solutions for successful communities
FRG Communities is an award-winning engagement, research, strategy and enablement organisation with a proud history of delivering socio-economic projects that deliver people-centred places and experiences. We’ve won recognition for our mahi in helping local communities adapt to change, impact, need and opportunity.
We are recognised for our understanding of engagement, analysis and strategy, and we collaborate with other specialists who bring in expertise in cultural protocols, property and financial modelling. We’re diverse in age, culture, orientation and outlook – reflecting the communities we are proud to work with.
We are recognised for our understanding of societal trends and the evolving needs of communities through our work with public-facing sectors and destinations. Our expertise is trusted by the public and private sectors to inform and enrich decisions, that make meaningful differences in people’s lives.
Our Purpose
We support organisations and communities to adapt, improve and deliver resilient and enduring socio-economic outcomes. We prioritise, social inclusivity, environmental sustainability, and economic wellness to achieve equitable solutions that create just and prosperous futures for all stakeholders
Mission and Culture
As a Maori business, our mission and culture centre on the principles of Kotahitanga – working together for unity and strength. We weave these values into the way we approach and deliver every project. Supporting our people: Prioritising the well-being of our team and partners.
Our Values
Empowering Communities Together: Our Projects
Case study 1
Building success for Local Centres
FRGC has worked with progressive city, local and provincial centres across New Zealand, delivering community-building strategies and enablement solutions to identify opportunities, drive performance and manage risk. This includes extensive experience with Councils and guardianship groups.
Over the past decade, FRGC have developed and delivered city and local centre summits that have successfully brought stakeholders together to explore potential and determine priorities. This includes Wellington City Council’s popular Local Centres Summits, which support Wellington’s six BIDs (Business Improvement Districts).
Case study 2
St Vincent de Paul Society Wellington
FRGC worked with St Vincent de Paul to transform their operations, address challenges and enhance their abilities to deliver good in the community.
Through collaborative efforts, FRGC’s expertise has helped St Vincent de Paul to maximise revenues – enabling the organisation to better serve their community.
Case study 3
Otaki - Community Engagement
FRGC collaborated with Ōtaki’s residents and businesses to develop a shared vision for the former main highway, focusing on social and economic resilience.
By actively engaging the community, including iwi, the local college, and community groups, we ensured the benefits of the bypass – were recognised and leveraged. This approach strengthened the community’s awareness of the positive aspects of these changes and helped businesses consider how best to benefit from improved accessibility and greater convenience for their customers.
Case study 4
Wainuiomata Town Centre
FRGC has been proud to be a part of Wainuiomata’s revitalisation, fostering community growth through engagement and strategy.
By working closely with diverse community members, FRGC has helped shape amenities and experiences that supported the centre’s evolution. Through comprehensive consultations, FRGC ensured many voices were heard, including those often overlooked. FRGC also contributed to projects enhancing community experience and mitigating redevelopment impacts. As an acknowledgement of their work, FRGC received a korowhai from Wainuiomata, recognising their commitment to a vibrant community.
Case study 5
Gore District Pandemic Response
FRG Communities supported Gore District Council to launch Te Kāpehu, a community hub named after the Maori word for compass. This initiative helped residents and businesses navigate the challenges of the post-COVID-19 environment.
Te Kāpehu offered support, resources, and innovative solutions to navigate challenges and leverage opportunities. Located in the Gore Visitor Centre, the hub connected people with resources, acting as a “triage point” for referrals to professionals, social services, and business development support.
Case study 6
Kaitaia Town Centre
Through understanding the diverse needs and aspirations of Kiataia’s community, FRGC’s strategy helped inform critical decisions on amenities, environment, and housing for New Zealand’s most northern town.
Extensive engagement with diverse stakeholders, including youth, education providers, elders, iwi, police, businesses, and property owners helped FRGC to foster community-driven outcomes. This included proactive outreach and open dialogue to build trust and address concerns. FRGC’s work supported both the Council and the community’s objectives in creating a more vibrant and sustainable Kaitaia.
First Retail Group Communities 2024