Gilbert wong

My work in media, public affairs and communications has been founded on the ability to distill complexity and craft high quality content that enables audiences to understand why an issue matters.

As a communications specialist, I have gained deep insights and good contacts in the human rights, social equity and health sectors. I have led digital strategy in two public sector organisations, relaunched websites and introduced social media channels, with the requisite guidelines and processes to enhance engagement and public accountability. 

Whether in print, on air or online, my goal is to find and craft a narrative that stays in the mind of audiences. My career encompasses the private and public sectors with a focus on business, the arts, science and health and human rights. I have had senior roles at the New Zealand Herald, Metro magazine, the Human Rights Commission and Auckland District Health Board.

Transferable skills

●     Communications strategy development

●     Media relations

●     Reputation management

●     High-level writing and content development

●     Website development

●     Social media strategy and advice

●     Public health campaigns

●     Stakeholder engagement

●     Issues management and crisis communications

●     Government relations

●     Managed privacy and Official Information Act response

●     Staff mentoring and management

Professional Memberships/Awards

Member of the Public Relations Institute of New Zealand

Fulbright Journalism Fellow, 1994: I was selected as the New Zealand

Fulbright journalist and worked on a Florida newspaper, The Sun Sentinel and produced a research papers on the impact of increasing community diversity in American newsrooms and a study of the early impact of the Internet.

2005: Qantas Media Awards: winner, Best General Magazine feature, and finalist, Best Magazine Writer.

2004: Qantas Media Awards: Best Magazine Writer, winner of Helen Paske Trophy for best story.

2003: Citibank Excellence in Journalism Awards: Winner, Economics category for Australasian journalism.

2002: Magazine Publishers Association Awards: Runner-up: Journalist of the year

1995: Qantas Media Awards: best single feature, Best newspaper feature writer.

1993: Science Writer of the Year, Association of NZ Scientists

1992: Science Writer of the Year, Association of NZ Scientists

1991: Science Writer of the Year, Association of NZ Scientists