What does this event cover
Governance Advisors play an integral part in supporting the governance systems, processes and elected representatives within the local government sector.
This role is highly professional, requiring skills and knowledge to support elected members in making good decisions in a framework that complies with legislation and good practice.
This two-day introductory course for people new to the role will provide all the core elements of knowledge that a new Governance Advisor will need to undertake the role in their initial stages of development.
OUTCOMES
• Knowledge of the core role and responsibilities of a Committee Advisor
• Understanding of legislation that is relevant to the role
• Practical application of Standing Orders
• Techniques to enable effective relationships with elected representatives to be established
• Knowledge of the requirements for minute-taking
• Overview of the types of hearings that a Committee Advisor may be involved in
Audience:
Staff new to the role of a Governance Professional / Committee Advisor
Governance Professional / Committee Advisor staff wanting a refresher
Staff currently in departments considering a career change to the governance support area
The workshop comprises a mix of presentations, discussion, and practical application.
Day One – Thursday 19 February 2026 9:15am – 4:30pm
Day Two – Friday 20 February 2026 8:30am – 2:30pm
Register here.
This event is delivered in partnership with Meeting and Governance Solutions Ltd.
Steve McDowell Mobile 027 6273606
Vern Walsh Mobile 021 770283
Email info@meetinggovernance.co.nz
Web Page www.meetinggovernance.co.nz
Where is this event
Programme overview
Your facilators and guest speakers
Vern Walsh
Vern sits on the board of the Real Estate Authority and was a Director of the Auckland Regional Amenities Funding Board (Chair 2009-2019) until 2021, a former board member of MOTAT (Museum of Transport and Technology), Council Controlled Organisations, Metrowater and The Edge and was an elected member for twelve years having served three terms as an Auckland City Councillor and one term as Chair of a community board.
Steve McDowell
Steve had a 24-year career in a variety of roles at the former Auckland City Council. He was the Democracy Services Manager when he left in 2006.
Steve then he has been consulting primarily in the local government sector. He currently works with national and regional sporting organisations through Sport New Zealand on good governance practices.
Steve is currently a member of the board of a not-for-profit organisation.
Steve holds a diploma in Local Government and Administration from Auckland University and is a Justice of the Peace.
