Today marks World PR Day, and this year’s theme, “Building Bridges and Navigating Polarisation,” couldn’t be more relevant to the work we do at Belle PR, and to the conversations happening in our communities right now.
Polarisation is no longer just a global issue; it’s local, personal, and often deeply emotional. Over the past 18 months, we’ve seen how polarising topics can fracture communities, stall progress, and erode trust. One issue that continues to ignite passionate debate in Aotearoa New Zealand? Cycleways.
Why do cycleways trigger people?
It’s a question we’ve been asking ourselves as we’ve watched the cycleway project in Cambridge, sometimes referred to as Streets for People, or part of Cambridge Connections, spark intense public reaction. Is the problem:
The cycleway itself?
The cost of implementation?
The process by which the project came about?
Or is it all of the above?
Cycleways are a microcosm of a much larger challenge: how do we navigate change in a way that brings people along, rather than leaving them behind?
Our role in navigating polarisation
At Belle PR, our work in community and stakeholder engagement is rooted in the belief that real change happens when:
Voices are heard
Perspectives are respected
Collaboration is prioritised
We’re not here to take sides — we’re here to build bridges. That means:
Facilitating inclusive dialogue that allows all voices to be part of the conversation
Guiding local initiatives with empathy and clarity
Helping organisations connect authentically with their audiences
Building constructive relationships that stand the test of time
Whether it’s a new cycleway or road, an additional river crossing, a new community facility, a new development or an environmental initiative, our job is to help communities and stakeholders navigate complexity with purpose.
Why this matters
Polarisation doesn’t just slow down projects. It damages relationships. It fosters “us vs. them” perspectives, making it harder to find common ground. However, when we engage early, listen attentively, and communicate effectively, we can transform conflict into collaboration.
World PR Day is a reminder that public relations isn’t just about messaging. It’s about meaning. It’s about helping people understand each other, especially when they disagree.
