Social media terms of use
This page contains community guidelines based on mutual respect between users of the social media accounts of Kāpiti Coast District Council and the communication tools (including forums for posting) on any of our platforms.
About our channels
Kāpiti Coast District Council social media accounts are managed by the Communications team. We reserve the right to vary, suspend or terminate any Council social media accounts at any time.
Community guidelines
Council's social media platforms are spaces for constructive dialogue and community engagement. We are committed to promoting a culture of respect, inclusivity, and safety for our staff and all users.
We do not tolerate any form of bullying, harassment, or racism in our online community, including comments directed at Council staff who monitor and manage our social media pages. This behaviour will be responded to in accordance with our corporate Unreasonable Conduct Policy [PDF 1.06 MB].
However, we encourage creativity, humour, and positive interactions! Memes, jokes, and lighthearted banter that adhere to our guidelines are welcome. Let's keep the conversation lively and enjoyable for everyone!
We reserve the right to take immediate action against any behaviour that violates these principles, including deleting or moderating comments, banning accounts, or referring them under the Harmful Digital Communications legislation. Please note that comments containing offensive language will automatically be hidden.
Prohibited conduct
Users are strictly prohibited from engaging in any of the following behaviours on our social media platforms:
- bullying, harassing, or intimidating other users, including Council staff, elected members and members of the public
- posting or sharing content that is racist, xenophobic, discriminatory, or otherwise offensive based on race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or any other characteristic
- using language or imagery that promotes hatred or violence against any individual or group
- sharing personal information of others without their explicit consent
- engaging in spamming, including repetitive posting of similar messages
- posting content that violates any local, national, or international laws or regulations
- sharing misinformation or disinformation
- using GIFs and images to bully, harass, or intimidate other users.
User responsibilities
By participating in discussions or contributing content on our social media platforms, users agree to:
- treat others, including other users, Council staff, and elected members, with respect, refraining from any form of bullying, harassment, discrimination, or negative personal commentary
- refrain from posting or sharing content that is racist, discriminatory, or offensive
- promptly report any instances of bullying, harassment, or racism to Council for immediate action
- understand that any violation of these guidelines may result in removal of content, restriction of access, or other appropriate measures at the discretion of the Council.
Reporting procedure
Users are encouraged to report any instances of bullying, harassment, or racism to the Council immediately. Reports can be made by sending a direct message to our social media accounts or by emailing us at [email protected]. All reports will be promptly investigated, and appropriate action will be taken.
Content moderation
We reserve the right to moderate and remove any content that violates these guidelines. This includes but is not limited to comments, posts, images, and videos. Users who repeatedly violate these guidelines may be banned from participating in our online community.
Content reuse
By posting or sharing content on our social media platforms, users grant Kāpiti Coast District Council permission to reuse and repurpose this content for promotional or informational purposes.