The record

One case in detail, three clients in their own words.

The work below is real and named. We do not publish anything we cannot stand behind.

Case study · COVID-19 Vaccine Corporation

The challenge

CVC launched into one of the most complex and highly politicised environments New Zealand has seen in recent history. The company faced widespread misinformation, conspiracy theories, anti-science sentiment and intense public scrutiny at a time when trust in science was low and information was scarce.

Our approach

Authority PR was engaged to cut through the noise and position CVC as a credible, trusted scientific voice. We developed a disciplined, science-first narrative focused on transparency, New Zealand innovation and public benefit.

Working closely with the CVC team, we managed a broad range of stakeholders, from government agencies and research partners to investors and the general public, while maintaining a calm, non-partisan stance in a highly sensitive environment.

Key results

Positive coverage across all major New Zealand news outlets and prime-time television programmes
Specialist features and long-form articles that strengthened CVC’s scientific credibility
CVC leadership established as trusted biotech experts in the national conversation
Relationships built with key government agencies and high net worth investors
Joint scientific programmes advanced with Fonterra, Scion, Auckland University, Callaghan Innovation and Ardigen

In a highly politicised and emotionally charged environment, Authority PR helped CVC protect its reputation, navigate significant risk and establish itself as a respected player in New Zealand’s biotechnology sector.

In their words

What it is like to work with us.

“Since beginning our strategic partnership, COVID-19 Vaccine Corporation and Authority PR’s relationship has been incredibly productive. Authority PR successfully placed press releases into high impact newspapers and, through their contacts, secured several high-profile TV slots. Throughout, we have found Authority PR to be responsive, and skilled in writing and presenting the key points of any story with flare and precision. The team are professional, extremely relatable and now considered a trusted friend.”

Dr Robert Feldman, Chief Executive, Covid-19 Vaccine Corporation
“BerrySimons has been engaging Authority PR for the past three and a half years. They have been closely involved in creating content for our website and press releases, and using their impressive list of contacts to achieve coverage with key media. They have also trained our team on the effective use of LinkedIn, and as a consequence been successful in raising our profile. The team is engaging and energetic, but also highly professional and great fun to work with. Turn-around times are quick and they are efficient and unflappable.”

Simon Berry, Partner, BerrySimons Environmental Law
“Authority PR not only talk the talk, they walk the walk. Public awareness and media coverage of our event and our athletes have increased remarkably since working with Authority PR. They are fast, sharp and strategic, which means we get the best coverage every show. We trust them with our brand and our athletes. Hands down the best in the game.”

Arna Suttie, Chief Executive, King in the Ring 8 Man Eliminator / Arsenal X

What we do

Public relations, corporate communications, and the things that protect them.

We help businesses, executives and high-profile individuals shape and control their narrative in New Zealand media. Impactful placements through our media contacts, stories that build credibility, and a position stated with clarity and authority.

Public relations
Corporate communications
PR and communication strategy
Stakeholder management
Reputation management
Social media and influencer management

Corporate communications

In today’s environment, every major announcement, regulatory issue, merger or strategic shift carries significant risk and opportunity. At Authority PR, we craft and deliver precise corporate communications and reputation strategies that ensure your message lands clearly, consistently and credibly across New Zealand’s diverse media landscape. Whether you are positioning a business for growth, managing sensitive stakeholder expectations or building long-term trust, we move fast with strategic clarity, protecting your position while delivering clear, controlled messaging.

Crisis & reputation management

When a crisis hits or a serious issue emerges, the cost of delay or miscommunication can be immediate and substantial, from lost stakeholder confidence to lasting damage to brand value. We provide decisive, discreet crisis response and reputation management that quickly contains the situation, minimises harm, restores control and protects your reputation during the most sensitive moments. Our swift response limits negative exposure, safeguards stakeholder relationships, maintains business continuity and creates a clear path forward with confidence.

Leadership communications & branding

With more than 20 years of experience and extensive media relationships across New Zealand, we specialise in leadership communications and personal branding for executives, founders and high-profile individuals. We help leaders articulate their vision with authority, align their personal brand with business goals, and communicate effectively in boardrooms, media interviews and public platforms. We also provide supporting social media management that reinforces broader PR objectives.

Welcome to Authority PR

Based in Auckland CBD, Authority PR is a boutique PR agency trusted by businesses, executives, founders and high-profile individuals who face complex communications challenges. Drawing on more than 20 years of hands-on experience and established relationships with key New Zealand media outlets, we deliver discreet, responsive and highly strategic support.

We act as an extension of your leadership team, helping you navigate high-stakes situations with clarity and control. Our focus is always on protecting your reputation, maintaining stakeholder trust, and ensuring your message reaches the right audiences with impact and precision.

Social media management is fully integrated into our PR approach, ensuring consistent messaging and amplifying earned media across owned and earned channels.

Our clients choose us because we combine deep media insight with practical execution. Whether the challenge is sensitive, time-critical or strategically important, we provide the calm, experienced guidance needed to protect what you’ve built and position you strongly for the future.

From the field