Public Relations Institute of New Zealand – News Release
Auckland, 31 October 2007
TWELVE PRINZ MEMBERS TO JOIN SELECT GROUP OF ACCREDITED PRACTITIONERS
Twelve public relations practitioners have recently completed the Public Relations Institute of NZ (PRINZ) Accreditation
programme for 2007.
Organised and endorsed by PRINZ, Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) is an internationally recognised qualification,
which involves six months of intensive study. The programme is open to any PRINZ member who has five years practical
experience in the industry.
The successful candidates - Jason Ake, Antony Byers and Tina Callcut (Wellington); Frank Begley (Tauranga); Sarah Bettle
and Marnie Johnson (Hamilton); Peter Boyes and Jeanette Paine (Auckland); Samantha Farr and Suzanne Takiwa (Taupo); Jill
Harris (Nelson) and Katy McRae (Christchurch) - this week joined a select group of accredited practitioners.
PRINZ National President, Fiona Cassidy says that “APR is a vital part of the continuing professional development of
public relations professionals. It is a mark of distinction for those who demonstrate their commitment to the profession
and to its ethical practice.”
“For clients or employers, APR provides surety that our public relations professionals have the knowledge, skills and
experience to provide sound advice and services.”
The annual programme runs over the academic year. Candidates must complete a number of written assignments and manage a
major project. They also write case study solutions in an exam setting and are interviewed by a panel of senior
practitioners to determine their level of skills and knowledge of the profession.
Chief Examiner, Joseph Peart says “our candidates have demonstrated broad knowledge, experience and competence in
professional practice – bench marked against universal standards. I congratulate them.”
Graduation ceremonies will be held in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch in November.
ENDS