Marketing Strategist Helping NZ Business Owners
Strategy first, because doing more of the wrong things won't grow your business
Marketing strategy for NZ businesses that know something's off
Diagnosis of what's broken — then a plan to fix it
Whangārei-based but working nationwide
The Problem I Solve for You
You're putting effort into marketing — updating your website, posting on social media, maybe boosting the occasional post. But it's not translating to the growth you want, and you can't quite pinpoint why.
In my experience working with NZ businesses, it's not usually the daily tasks that are the problem. It's the direction.
Your messaging tries to appeal to everyone, so it doesn't really speak to anyone. How you're positioned in the market doesn't match your pricing.
Which means you're working hard but not getting the results you should.
How I Can Help
I work with you to see what's not working — then we fix it together. Strategy first, because there's no point working on the wrong things.
If you're keen to partner with someone who genuinely wants to help you get unstuck, feel free to get in touch.
Here's A Bit About Me
Commercial Experience + Strategic Thinking
My background in advertising and publishing gave me something most marketers don't have: real-world commercial pressure.
As Features Manager, I didn't just write — I sold, managed budgets, led teams, and delivered revenue-generating ideas under deadline. I learned to think strategically about what actually helps generate results for businesses, not just what looks good on a report.
Add sharp analytical thinking and hands-on copy and design experience, and the result is this: I can look at your business and often see what others miss. — the gap between what you want and what your marketing actually delivers.
Then I added the technical side
SEO, data analysis using tools like Semrush, Google Search Console, Google Analytics, and on-page optimisation.
Most businesses are sitting on data they've never properly used. I change that.
It's a powerful combination: commercial experience, strategic thinking, and technical know-how.
Why I see what others miss
In a psychometric test, I scored in the 92nd percentile for abstract reasoning. That's the ability to spot patterns, solve problems, acquire new skills, and see connections others miss.
Which is exactly what you need — someone who can look at your business and come up with a better plan of attack.
Pictured alongside me are Hamish & the late Miss Jessica
Why Work With Me?
I won't sell you what you don't need. My first question isn't "what do you want to buy?" It's "what's actually broken?" That honesty saves you money and gets you results faster.
Real commercial experience. I've run businesses, managed budgets, and delivered under pressure. I understand what actually drives growth, not just marketing theory.
I see patterns quickly. Usually, within our discovery call, I can pinpoint what's holding you back. That comes from experience, strategic thinking, and that abstract reasoning ability I mentioned.
Based in Whangārei — Working Nationwide
If you're local, I know all the best coffee spots. Elsewhere in NZ? I'm just a Google Meet or phone call away.
Kind Words From Happy Clients
You can now see more testimonials and a case study on my Reviews page
Great Content Starts With Great Stories
"Over the years, both in Australia and NZ, I haven't had anyone write or present such a well-written story as you have for me at Artel Gallery."
Maude Heath, Owner
Reaching A Wider Target Audience
"Maree was employed as a volunteer freelance marketing copywriter for the Kapiti Foodbank. As Manager, I found her work outstanding as it was consistently creative, informative, professional & concise. She has the ability to reach a wide audience as her eloquent style is notable, readable & relatable."
Kerry Lovell, Kapiti Community Foodbank Manager (Former)
Rewarding Little Jobs
"Maree helped me with a small writing job that required a delicate finesse. Her input was invaluable. Thank you."
Tori P, Dog Groomer Extraordinaire
Refreshing Real Estate
"Maree was awesome to work with, such a breath of fresh air and super professional. Loved it! Thanks for your help."
Chris Judd, Sold On Kapiti Real Estate
Cost-Effective Evergreen Content
"The Kapiti Deerstalkers club engaged Maree to write an article outlining our nationally recognised HUNTs Course. Her piece was well-written and concise and effectively promoted the course to potential trainees. Because of this, we have added it to the organisation's national website."
Gwyn Thurlow, CEO NZDA Incorporated
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes you different from other marketing consultants?
I start with diagnosis, not services. Most consultants jump straight to 'here's what you should do.' I help you see what's actually broken first. That comes from combining commercial experience with strategic thinking and technical skills. Plus, that psychometric test result I mentioned on my About page — means I can usually pinpoint your problem within 20 minutes of talking.
Do I need to sign up for ongoing marketing services?
No, you do not need to engage me for ongoing marketing services. You can hire me for one-off projects if you are confident that your existing marketing strategy is working for you. I have a range of services that can support your content marketing strategy.
I am here to make marketing your business easier — not to sell you something you don't need.
What's included in the Marketing Strategy session?
We start with a deep dive into your business: what you're selling, who you're targeting, how you're positioning yourself, and what your messaging currently says. I'll analyse two of your competitors to identify the gaps and figure out what's actually holding you back (which is usually not what you think).
From there, I'll develop a positioning framework that shows you how to differentiate yourself, who your ideal customers actually are, and what messaging will attract them. You'll get a written strategy document with a prioritised action plan — what to focus on first, what can wait, and why.
Then we'll have a one-hour walkthrough session where I explain everything, answer your questions, and make sure you understand exactly what needs to change and how to implement it. This strategy document gives you a clear, actionable roadmap you can implement yourself — or I can help with that too.
Why start with strategy instead of just hiring you to do the work?
I recommend a strategy first because it provides clarity and direction for your future marketing efforts. Otherwise, you can hire me to provide a range of marketing services. If you are confident you have a solid, effective marketing strategy in place, we can skip that step — but only if you don't need my help with content strategies.
Do you work with startups?
Yes, I work with startups. As long as you have a marketing budget and some clarity around your business goals, we can work together. To find out if we are a good fit, we can start with a free discovery session.
Need My Help?
Spread The Word offers you a wide range of marketing solutions for small NZ-owned businesses.
Let me help you so that you can focus on what matters.
Contact
Call me: +64 21 272 0042
Email me: maree@spreadtheword.nz
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