Hi, I’m Maz! Let’s talk about the magic of great communication
Marianne ‘Maz’ Cotter
Based in Auckland | Available across Aotearoa, New Zealand
Communication is at the heart of everything I do—so let’s start with a conversation! On this page, you’ll get a feel for who I am, what I value, and how I run my training sessions. I’ll share why I’m passionate about communication, my approach to making learning engaging and practical, and the experience I bring to help your business grow.
So, grab a coffee, have a read, and let’s see how we can create real change, real connections, and real impact—together.
Lets Get Started
Why The Way We Communicate Makes All the Difference
Effective communication in the workplace is like the secret ingredient in a recipe for success it strengthens collaboration, builds relationships, boosts productivity, and resolves conflicts.
Let’s keep it open, honest, and a little fun!
My Journey
My journey in learning and development has been nothing short of a wild ride—imagine blending the wisdom of horses with the hustle and bustle of the corporate world!
Starting my career over 25 years ago, I quickly realised that the secret to effective communication wasn't buried in a dusty textbook—it was trotting around in a stable. Horses teach trust, leadership, and connection, lessons I’ve woven into workplace training with engaging, real-world insights. My sessions mix positive psychology, cognitive behavioral approaches, and a few equine-inspired stories, making complex concepts relatable, memorable, and fun.
Colleagues often joke about which horse-inspired lesson to apply next—"bridling enthusiasm" or "reining in distractions." This unique approach turns learning into an adventure, inspiring people to connect, communicate, and lead with confidence.
My ability to bring the lessons of the barn into the work environment has not only enriched my own life but also inspired countless others to see learning as an adventure.
My Experience
After 25+ years in learning and development, I’ve seen communication evolve—sometimes for the worse. Generational gaps, digital overload, and a lack of confidence in face-to-face interactions have left many feeling more disconnected than ever, despite endless ways to connect.
Discovering Communicate Powerfully was a game-changer. Inspired by its focus on genuine connection, trust, and confidence, I became a Certified Trainer to help others communicate with clarity and impact.
Built on positive psychology, cognitive behavioral approaches, and neuroscience, this framework keeps people at the heart of communication. It’s about active listening, empathy, and creating meaningful interactions—because real conversations make all the difference.
Why Choose Me?
I’m a tenacious and energetic communications professional with 25+ years in learning and development, wearing many hats—Trainer, Coach, Consultant, and Facilitator. My diverse experience spans government, retail, manufacturing, agriculture, insurance, SMEs, and non-profits, giving me a unique perspective on workplace communication. My programs are like custom-tailored suits each one is designed to meet the specific needs of my client/s, ensuring practical, engaging, and effective learning.
Who I Have Worked With
I’ve worked across learning and development, from onboarding programs and values alignment workshops to upskilling mentors, rolling out wellbeing initiatives, business development, and communication training. These include:
• Spark
• Coca-Cola Amatil
• Auckland Museum
• L'Oréal Australasia
• Moët & Hennessy
• Waste Management NZ
• Fire & Emergency NZ
• Freshpork NZ
• Queenstown Lakes District Council
• AgResearch
Along the way, I’ve partnered with incredible organisations, each bringing its own unique challenges and opportunities. Every experience has deepened my understanding and refined my approach, allowing me to tailor programs that truly meet each group's needs. It’s been a journey of growth, learning, and plenty of memorable moments!
My Qualifications
• Communicate Powerfully Licensed Trainer
Communicate Powerfully
• Adult Learning & Teaching Certificate
Christchurch Teachers College
• Life Coaching Diploma
Life Coach Associates
• Lead Coach
BRAVA Coaching Model
• Lead Trainer
The Zone -Values Alignment Workshops
• Certificate in Transformational Coaching
Coach Masters Academy
Learn More About Maz & Communicate Powerfully
Want to dive deeper into who I am, and what Communicate Powerfully is all about? Download my intro document for a closer look.
Click to download
Meet Maz In Action
Want to get a feel for my vibe before we chat? Check out this quick video where I share a little about who I am, what I do, and why I’m all about powerful conversations. Let’s make communication fun, engaging, and impactful—press play and let’s get started!
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