Legacy in Motion: Elevating Norman Kirk’s Vision Through Storytelling and Digital Connection

Since August 2024, Elika Consulting Group (ECG) has had the privilege of curating and sharing the story of one of Aotearoa’s great  leaders — the Rt Hon. Norman Kirk.This blog reflects on a successful communications and digital campaign that amplified the legacy of Norman Kirk. Through strategic storytelling, alumni engagement, and deeper collaboration with Pacific and Māori communities, the Trust saw a tangible uplift in visibility and brand impact. Learn how a values-based approach powered real connection.

When we started this work, we knew it would be special. Norman Kirk wasn’t just a former Prime Minister. He was — and still is — a symbol of hope, possibility and a leadership approach that is based on humility, integrity, and service to others.

Every post, quote, memory, or milestone we shared, provided a glimpse into his life and its relevance today as a living inspiration for students, families and everyday New Zealanders, who aspire to make a positive change. 

A Second Chance, A New Beginning

Perhaps the most powerful legacy we’ve witnessed is the way the Norman Kirk Memorial Trust continues to quietly change lives. Through scholarships and financial support, it has given many people something precious: a second chance. 

So many of the people we’ve connected with over the past year have described their lives as “transformed.” And in sharing their stories, we’ve been reminded of Big Norm’s belief that every person deserves dignity, opportunity, and the right to dream.

One of the most engaged posts we shared featured the heartfelt stories of scholarship recipients — a powerful reminder of the Trust's living impact and ongoing relevance. Their voices reached nearly 2,000 people, sparking over 30 personal interactions, comments, and shares.

The Results

The Norman Kirk Memorial Trust had no active social media presence but with ECG’s support, the trust is positioned to establish a strong and growing social media presence, as it looks to leverage its 50 years of service to the community. 

Results to date:

•  A 216% increase in followers and climbing

•  A 700%  increase in post views from April to June

•  Nearly 6x more content engagement

•  A 10x increase in page visits — reflecting a surge of interest and connection

Whether it was seasonal greetings, partnership stories, or the widely celebrated 50-Year Commemoration Video, each post deepened awareness of Norman Kirk’s values and reinforced connections with communities across Aotearoa and the Pacific.

Norman Kirk Memorial Trust - 50 Year Celebration Video - https://youtu.be/0v8D2-zgibU

We are grateful to the Norman Kirk Memorial Trust for allowing us to be part of their impactful work.

The growing online engagement is a reminder that people and stories matter. That legacy lives on when we speak it, share it, and pass it forward.

Mā te aroha tātou e ārahi.May love continue to guide us all.

Let’s keep telling stories that matter and building legacies that last.

Team ECG 

Contact us letstalk@ecg.nz for strategy, engagement, evaluation including communication campaigns that are authentic and built from the ground up.