Fairfax Media : News

Waikato Institute of Technology (Wintec) Hamilton: Head of school Charles Riddle [charles.riddle@wintec.ac.nz].

AUT (Auckland University of Technology): Programme administrator Mere Kingi (mere.kingi@aut.ac.nz)

In the meantime, all applicants should make application to their preferred journalism schools. Contacts were:

University of Canterbury, Christchurch: Jim Tully [jim.tully@canterbury.ac.nz]

Massey University, Wellington: Grant Hannis [G.D.Hannis@massey.ac.nz] or James Hollings [j.h.hollings@massey.ac.nz]

Waikato Institute of Technology (Wintec) Hamilton: Head of school Charles Riddle [charles.riddle@wintec.ac.nz].

AUT (Auckland University of Technology): Programme leader Martin Hirst (martin.hirst@aut.ac.nz); Programme administrator Mere Kingi (mere.kingi@aut.ac.nz)

FAIRFAX MEDIA LAUNCHES SEARCH FOR 2010 JOURNALISM INTERNS

Fairfax Media, New Zealand’s largest newspaper, magazine and web publisher, is again seeking the country’s brightest young journalism prospects for its journalism intern scheme.

Fairfax Media Group Executive Editor Paul Thompson announced today that for the fourth year in a row, the company was seeking keen interns to undergo training in 2010 at one of five leading journalism schools, after which they would join publications or websites of their choice.

There has probably never been a more challenging or exciting time to enter journalism, Mr Thompson said.

Applications for this year’s intern scheme will open today [July 1, 2009] and close at noon on August 5. Applicants will undergo an on-line written test and from that, would-be interns will undergo other written tests before interviews by representatives of their chosen publications or website and journalism schools.

Fairfax Media’s journalism intern scheme began in 2006.

Among other things, the scheme offers participants:

▪    The opportunity to study for a year at one of the participating institutions
▪    Work experience during course holidays at one of Fairfax's publications;
▪    Reimbursement of course fees to successful applicants
▪    Employment with a Fairfax publication at the conclusion of the course.
▪    On-going training and career development.

Fairfax owns nine daily newspapers including The Dominion Post and The Press, two national Sunday newspapers, a national business newspaper, a vast range of magazines, a magazine publishing business, the Stuff, BusinessDay and RugbyHeaven websites among others, and more than 50 community newspapers throughout the country.

Successful interns will undergo year-long training for a Diploma or Graduate Diploma in Journalism at Massey University, Wellington, the Auckland University of Technology (AUT) the University of Canterbury, Christchurch, Aoraki Polytechnic, Timaru, and the Waikato Institute of Technology, Hamilton. Where possible, successful applicants will be trained in the institution of their choice.

Mr Thompson praised the scheme as a great example of co-operation between Fairfax editors, journalism schools and the interns themselves.

Interns from the 2006 and 2007 intakes are now working in newsrooms around the country, and another 12 are studying this year to join Fairfax newsrooms next year.

“We want the best and keenest young minds and we think we’re meeting that objective,” he said. “An intern, John Hartevelt, who studied at Canterbury and is now working at The Press, won the Student-Print section of the 2008 Qantas awards, while Laura Jackson, who studied at Massey and works at the Manawatu Standard, won the section this year.”

Fairfax has also started what will become a comprehensive workplace training programme for young journalists.

Fairfax was also pleased that one of the aims of the scheme - a greater diversity of student considering taking up journalism – had been achieved.

The selection process will include an on-line application form including at least four written exercises. These will be marked and applicants judged to have the aptitude to make good journalists will be selected to sit a two-hour writing and general knowledge exercise designed to test journalistic aptitude at cities throughout the country at 10am on Saturday, August 29.

After that process, editors will choose those they wish to interview according to the publication and school preferences of the applicants. Representatives of the participating schools take part in and approve all selected interns.

Final selections are expected to be made by the end of October.

During course holidays, participants will be employed by one of Fairfax's publications.

On the successful completion of their course, participants will be reimbursed for their course fees. Successful applicants will be bonded to Fairfax for two years.

Massey Journalism Head Grant Hannis said Massey was delighted to be involved in the scheme. "Massey has been training Fairfax Interns since the scheme began and it has always been a positive, productive experience. We have had some superb students come through the course as Fairfax Interns. Indeed, the 2009 Qantas Media Award for best student print journalist went to Laura Jackson, a Massey Fairfax Intern who now works at the Manawatu Standard in Palmerston North."

Associate Professor Jim Tully, Head of the School of Social and Political Sciences at the University of Canterbury, said: “We have enjoyed working with Fairfax Media over the last three years to provide a strong grounding in journalism skills for its interns. It has been a most harmonious relationship reflecting a high level of mutual respect. Our independence as a quality tertiary provider has not been compromised in any way.

“The subsequent performance of the interns in the workplace reflects a successful partnership based on intensive training in journalism skills complemented by ongoing quality workplace supervision and professional development.”
AUT journalism curriculum leader Associate Professor Martin Hirst said participation in the scheme is a sign of strength in journalism education in this country.
“AUT is keen to continue working with Fairfax Media to develop the interns scheme. Our experience over the past two years has been very positive. The interns have all achieved good grades through hard work and commitment. In 2010 the AUT programme will be launching a new Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism and we are expecting another intake of bright recruits from the Fairfax scheme.”
Aoraki Polytechnic is also looking forward to being involved with the Fairfax intern scheme in 2010.

School of Journalism co-ordinator Peter O'Neill said the assurance of employment on successful completion of the course was even more important in these financial times, and allowed interns to concentrate on their studies with greater confidence in their chosen career.

``Aoraki is conscious too of Fairfax's commitment to ongoing training within the workplace, which leads on naturally from the National Diploma in Journalism.

``We look forward to teaching more high-calibre interns, and watching them join a select band of journalists around the country,'' Mr O'Neill said.

Wintec‘s programme manager journalism Charles Riddle said the internship scheme sat well within Wintec’s journalism training programme.

“We have been very pleased with the calibre of the first Fairfax interns. They come from diverse backgrounds and are mature and focused. We expect them to be very good journalists.

“Wintec’s journalism programme is focused on reducing the gap between classroom and newsroom. Wintec students are involved in a range of ongoing projects with local media, including Fairfax’s Waikato and Auckland community and daily newspapers. The programme means the students can learn their craft and practice their skills in real situations which results in greater understanding and better quality of work.”

For further details, go to www.fairfaxnz.co.nz/careers

For further information about the internships, please contact Clive Lind, Editorial Development Manager Fairfax Media, telephone 04 496 9845, 027 2467771 or clive.lind@fairfaxmedia.co.nz.

Released on behalf of Fairfax Media by Annabel Scaife 09 09 97049008 or Annabel.scaife@fairfaxmedia.co.nz.

Fairfax Media, New Zealand’s leading newspaper, magazine and web publisher, is again seeking the country’s young journalism prospects for its journalism intern scheme.

Fairfax Media Group Executive Editor Paul Thompson said applications for this year’s intern scheme will open on July 1, 2009. Applicants will undergo an on-line written test and from that, would-be interns will undergo other written tests before interviews by representatives of their chosen publications or website and journalism schools.

Fairfax Media’s journalism intern scheme began in 2006 and 45 have so far been selected.

Fairfax owns nine daily newspapers including The Dominion Post and The Press, two national Sunday newspapers, magazines, a magazine publishing business, internet operations, and more than 50 community newspapers throughout the country.

Selected interns will undergo year-long training for a Diploma or Graduate Diploma in Journalism at one of five institutions – the University of Canterbury, Christchurch, Aoraki Polytechnic, Timaru, Massey University, Wellington, the Waikato Institute of Technology, Hamilton, and the Auckland University of Technology (AUT). Where possible, successful applicants will be trained in the institution of their choice.

Applications will close at noon on August 4 and those judged suitable will be asked to undergo general knowledge, grammar and spelling and writing tests throughout the country on Saturday, August 29. After that, tests will be marked and assessed by editors at newspapers, magazines or websites that applicants nominated as their preferred places of employment.

On July 1, the online application form, which all applicants must complete, will be available at this website - www.fairfaxmedia.co.nz/careers.

Selections have started for this year’s Fairfax Media journalism internships and so far eight applicants have been offered internships.

Fairfax Media Editorial Development Manager Clive Lind said many applicants who were unlikely to be placed had been advised by personal email. Those who had not received such an email should consider their applications as still “live.”

The selection process, for many reasons including availability, takes some time, he said.

Those selected for interviews have been advised individually and interview dates and times determined by the newspapers, magazines or websites they wish to attend. The interviews will be carried out by editors and representatives of their selected journalism schools.

In the meantime, Lind repeated that all applicants should have applied for their respective journalism schools regardless of the internship.

Such an application was required by all schools and it would ease school processes if applications were made as early as possible.

Under the scheme, interns, of which up to 20 could be chosen for Fairfax Media’s newspapers, magazines and websites across the country, will undergo year-long journalism training in 2009 before joining their chosen medium. The internship also offers holiday work and the payment of fees when training is successfully completed.

The closing date for this year’s Fairfax Media interns has been extended to midday Wednesday, August 13.

Fairfax Media editorial development manager Clive Lind said that on at least two occasions, the online application system had failed for some hours.

Many applications had arrived successfully but the number of incomplete application forms had also been more than expected, which had raised questions about the system’s overall reliability. While some applicants in this category had been tracked down, Fairfax wanted to ensure all applications had been received and more time was needed to ascertain this.

“We apologise for any inconvenience,” Lind said. “If you have applied, you should have received a reply email confirming this. If you haven’t received any acknowledgement or are wondering if your application has been received, please contact me as soon as possible.”

Fairfax Media has launched its search for interns for all its newspapers and websites for 2008.

The successful interns, of which there are expected to be about 20, will undertake studies at one of five journalism schools next year.

Applications open today [July 2] and close on August 8. Selected applicants will be asked to undergo written tests throughout the country on Saturday, September 6.

Applications will only be accepted on-line. For more information and a link to the application form, please go to the interns homepage.

The internships are available at all Fairfax Media daily and community newspapers and websites. They close at noon on August 8.

Applicants will have to undergo an on-line test and those judged suitable will be invited to undergo written tests to be held throughout the country on September 6, 2008. After that, editors and journalism schools will undertake interviews and make their selections.

This is the third year that Fairfax publications and websites have offered the internships.

Fairfax Media publications include The Dominion Post, The Press, The Waikato Times, the Independent Financial Review, the Sunday Star-Times, The Southland Times, the Taranaki Daily News, the Manawatu Standard, Nelson Mail, Timaru Herald, Marlborough Express and more than 50 community newspapers including the Hutt News, Western Leader, Kapiti Observer, East and Bays Courier, Franklin County News, Taupo Times, Hauraki Herald and North Harbour News. Websites include Stuff, Rugby Heaven and BusinessDay.co.nz.

Fairfax Media interns chosen for 2008 are about to start their studies at their chosen journalism schools.

The 19 interns were chosen by Fairfax editors and journalism school representatives in an exhaustive process late last year.

It is the second time Fairfax editors have run the intern scheme and Fairfax editorial development manager Clive Lind said it had been a great success.

“We’re delighted with the calibre and diversity of the people we have selected,” he said. “We now have our first batch of interns from 2007 working in our newsrooms and they are doing excellent work.”

The interns will study at Aoraki Polytechnic, Timaru, the University of Canterbury, Christchurch, Massey University, Wellington, Waikato Institute of Technology, Hamilton, and the Auckland University of technology.

In another first, Fairfax is developing a workplace training scheme for its interns and all journalists who have just completed journalism school. The scheme will be run over three days twice a year at three venues throughout the country.

Fairfax Media editors throughout the country have now almost completed their selection of journalism interns to undertake training in 2008.
Fairfax Media editorial development manager Clive Lind said editors of 13 publications and websites had made their selections.
All applicants should by now know if they had been selected or not, or whether they might sitll be required for an interview, and he urged any applicant who had not received either a letter or email to contact him immediately (clive.lind@fairfaxmedia.co.nz).
The process took a considerable time and other factors such as lack of availablity for interviews and holidays had delayed selections. All selections should be made by the end of the week.
Lind said he hoped all aspiring journalists had applied to attend their preferred journalism schools irrespective of whether they have been chosen as interns or not.
"The intern programme can only take a certain number and, as has happened this year, there are many other jobs in journalism available," he said.
Contact points at the journalism schools are:
University of Canterbury, Christchurch: Jim Tully [jim.tully@canterbury.ac.nz]
Aoraki Polytechnic, Timaru: Peter ONeill [Peter.oneill@aoraki.ac.nz]
Massey University, Wellington: Grant Hannis [G.D.Hannis@massey.ac.nz] or James Hollings [j.h.hollings@massey.ac.nz]
Waikato Institute of Technology (Wintec) Hamilton: Editor-in-residence Venetia Sherson [venetia.sherson@wintec.ac.nz] or journalism lecturer Charles Riddle [charles.riddle@wintec.ac.nz].
Auckland University of Technology: Associate Professor Martin Hirst, Curriculum Leader, Journalism (martin.hirst@aut.ac.nz).
.
Fairfax publications and websites will choose about 20 interns this year. The scheme began last year, and the first interns have started work full-time.

THE first of the Fairfax Media journalism interns to undertake training in 2008 have now been chosen but it may be another three weeks before the selection proces is completed.
Fairfax Media editorial development manager Clive Lind said editors of nine publications and websites had made their selections but another seven had yet to make their selections.
Interviews were now taking place at many of Fairfax's newspapers in conjunction with representatives of journalism schools involved in the intern programme - Massey University, Wellington, the University of Canterbury, Aoraki Polytechnic, Timaru, the Auckland University of technology (AUT), and the Waikato Institute of Technology (Wintec).
All applicants were asked to name four newspapers or websites as their preferred choices.
The process took a considerable time and other factors such as lack of availablity for interviews and holidays had delayed selections. Nevertheless, it should be completed over the next two or three weeks.
Each week, those who would not be required for interviews or further interviews were being advised.
Lind again emphasised that aspiring journalists should apply now to attend their preferred journalism schools irrespective of whether they have been chosen as interns or not.
"The intern programme can only take a certain number, and we want to encourage as many people as possible to take up journalism," he said.
Contact points at the journalism schools are:
University of Canterbury, Christchurch: Jim Tully [jim.tully@canterbury.ac.nz]
Aoraki Polytechnic, Timaru: Dale McCord [Dale.McCord@aoraki.ac.nz]
Massey University, Wellington: Grant Hannis [G.D.Hannis@massey.ac.nz] or James Hollings [j.h.hollings@massey.ac.nz]
Waikato Insitute of Technology (Wintec) Hamilton: Editor-in-residence Venetia Sherson [venetia.sherson@wintec.ac.nz] or journalism lecturer Charles Riddle [charles.riddle@wintec.ac.nz].
Auckland University of Technology: Associate Professor Martin Hirst, Curriculum Leader, Journalism (martin.hirst@aut.ac.nz).
Alternatively, Lind said, they could contact him at clive.lind@fairfaxmedia.co.nz.
Fairfax publications and websites will choose about 20 interns this year. The scheme began last year, and the first interns are about to start work full-time.

Fairfax Media publications and websites throughout the country are now interviewing prospective journalism interns.

The selection process after general knowledge, spelling and grammar and writing tests were held throughout the ciountry on September 1, 2007, takes about two months.

Fairfax Media editorial development manager Clive Lind said publications and websites had been sorting through the various applications and making their choices of those they wished to interview.

Interviews were now taking place at many of Fairfax's newspapers in conjunction with representatives of journalism schools involved in the intern programme - Massey University, Wellington, the University of Canterbury, Aoraki Polytechnic, Timaru, the Auckland University of technology (AUT), and the Waikato Institute of Technology (Wintec).

"The process is a long one," Lind said. "But we hope to advise people along the way whether they have been successful."

The important thing is that aspiring journalists apply now to attend their preferred journalism schools irrespective of whether they have been chosen as interns or not.

"The intern programme can only take a certain number, and we want to encourage as many people as possible to take up journalism," he said.

University of Canterbury, Christchurch: Jim Tully [jim.tully@canterbury.ac.nz]
Aoraki Polytechnic, Timaru: Dale McCord [Dale.McCord@aoraki.ac.nz]
Massey University, Wellington: Grant Hannis [G.D.Hannis@massey.ac.nz] or James Hollings [j.h.hollings@massey.ac.nz]
Waikato Insitute of Technology (Wintec) Hamilton: Editor-in-residence Venetia Sherson [venetia.sherson@wintec.ac.nz] or journalism lecturer Charles Riddle [charles.riddle@wintec.ac.nz].
Auckland University of Technology: Associate Professor Martin Hirst, Curriculum Leader, Journalism (martin.hirst@aut.ac.nz).
Alternatively, Lind said, they could contact him at clive.lind@fairfaxmedia.co.nz.
Fairfax publications and websites will choose about 20 interns this year. The scheme began last year, and the first interns are about to start work full-time.

Fairfax Media has appointed Paul Thompson, Editor of the Press, to the newly created position of Group Executive Editor.

Mr Thompson’s new role involves the continued development of quality news gathering and content across Fairfax Media’s three business platforms of newspapers, online and magazines. He will relocate to Wellington, and report to the Chief Executive.

Chief Executive of Fairfax Media, Joan Withers, said Paul was the outstanding candidate for the position from a strong field of applicants.

“To be able to appoint such a suitable person from within our ranks underlines the outstanding quality and breadth of Fairfax Media’s editorial talent.

“Paul is a distinguished editor of one of the country’s most respected agenda setting metropolitan newspapers, and during his six-year tenure has shown strong leadership, sound judgement, and built the paper’s reputation for accuracy, fairness and balance.

“He has transformed The Press, and for the past two years it has been acknowledged as the country’s best newspaper in the Qantas Media Awards.

“Many of the innovations he has brought to The Press have become standard practice across Fairfax Media newspapers.

“He has superb credentials to lead Fairfax Media’s editorial team into the digital age, and ensure we achieve world best standards and practices”

Mr Thompson said that he welcomed the opportunity to be in the forefront of the challenges facing editorial as media usage changed.

“My role is to make sure Fairfax Media’s journalism and information services serve our readers even better than they do now.”

“In my new role I will work with our editors and other senior staff to improve our publications, launch new ones and lift our already high standard of journalism.”

Prior to becoming Editor of The Press, Mr Thompson was Editor of the Nelson Mail.

Group Editor, John Crowley, Editorial Development Manager, Clive Lind and General Manager Sport, Trevor McKewen will continue in their current roles. All will report to the Group Executive Editor.

Released on behalf of Fairfax Media by Network PR (Dennis Lynch), for further information please contact Joan Withers, CEO Fairfax Media, Ph: (09) 970 4053.

About 110 applicants for Fairfax Media journalism internships sat tests across the country on Saturday [September 1, 2007].

Fairfax offers the internships annually, and applicants go through a process of testing, including the general knowledge, grammar, spelling and writing tests on Saturday, and interviews before finals slections are made by editors of Fairfax publications and websites.

The tests are now being marked and will then be sent to editors who will analyse individual papers and decide which applicants they wish to interview. All applicants were asked to nominate four Fairfax publications or websites.

Interviews will also be conducted with representatives of nominated journalism schools.

The process is expected to take about two months, and applicants will be advised of progress via personal email and through this Fairfax Media website.

Click here to view the answers of the of the 50 General Knowledge and Spelling and Grammar tests.

Applications for the Fairfax Media journalism intern scheme for 2007 have now closed. More than 125 were received.

The applications are now being assessed, and those required to sit written tests throughout the country at 10am on Saturday, September 1, will be advised of their venues shortly. The tests will consist of 50 questions on international affairs, sport, politics, general knowledge and arts and entertainment, a spelling and grammar test and two written exercises, one on a serious topic and a smaller one on a lighter subject.

Following the marking of those tests, Fairfax editors will choose those they wish to interview according to applicants' publication or website preferences. Representatives of the applicants' preferred journalism schools will also be present.

Applicants will be advised via email and through the Fairfax Media website of progress during the process. Any queries should be addressed to Clive Lind, Fairfax media editorial development manager, at clive.lind@fairfaxmedia.co.nz or 027 2467771.

Applications will close next week for the 2008 journalism internships offered by Fairfax Media. The scheme, now in its second year, will provide both study and career opportunities for up to 20 people with emerging journalistic talent. Applications close on Wednesday 08 August at 12 noon.

Through the scheme, interns will undertake training at one of five tertiary institutions before starting careers at their chosen Fairfax publications or website throughout the country.

“We’re looking for talented and committed people who have a broad foundation of knowledge as well as some real life-skills and a degree of worldliness. These are the attributes that make great journalists,” says Fairfax Media Editorial Development Manager Clive Lind.

Fairfax Media, New Zealand's largest media company established the journalism internship programme in 2006 in order to promote editorial excellence and encourage diversity amongst the profession.

“It is a priceless opportunity to enter a one of the world’s most dynamic industries while at the same time be supported by New Zealand’s leading media company, Fairfax Media.

“Securing a quality job in journalism for new graduates can be difficult in such a highly competitive industry. This opportunity puts graduates at the coal-face of the finest media titles in the country and offers the chance to learn from some of the best in the business,” says Lind.

During course holidays, participants are employed by one of Fairfax's publications, where they will work with experienced journalists and have a mentor to offer support and guidance. Interns will also receive on-going training throughout their tenure at Fairfax Media.

Fairfax Media is pleased with the quality and quantity of applicants received so far, and expects the number of applications to increase as the closing date of 08 August nears.

Applicants will be required to complete an on-line written assessment and from that, successful would-be interns will undergo further written tests, before being interviewed by representatives from their chosen publication or website and journalism schools.

Details for applications can be seen at www.fairfaxnz.co.nz/careers.

Fairfax Media Journalism Internship key facts:

- Selection process includes interviews and testing of writing skills, general knowledge and journalistic aptitude.

- Successful candidates will undergo year-long training for a Diploma or Graduate Diploma in Journalism at one of five institutions – the University of Canterbury, Christchurch, Aoraki Polytechnic, Timaru, Massey University, Wellington, the Waikato Institute of Technology, Hamilton, and the Auckland University of Technology (AUT). Where possible, successful applicants will be trained in the institution of their choice.

- Applicants can nominate which Fairfax Media publication for which they would like to work.

- During course holidays, participants will be employed by a Fairfax Media publication where they will work with experienced journalists and have a dedicated mentor.

- On the successful completion of the course, participants will be reimbursed for their course fees. Successful applicants will be required to work with Fairfax Media for two years where they will receive on-going training and career development.

- Fairfax Media owns nine daily newspapers including The Dominion Post and The Press, two national Sunday newspapers, a number of magazines, internet operations including Stuff.co.nz and RugbyHeaven, and more than 50 community newspapers throughout the country.

Through the Fairfax Media journalism intern scheme, interns will undertake training before starting careers at their chosen publications throughout the country.

Fairfax Editor-in-Chief Peter O’Hara said applications for this year’s intern scheme will open on July 2, 2007. Applicants will undergo an on-line written test and from that, would-be interns will undergo other written tests before interviews by representatives of their chosen publications or website and journalism schools.

Fairfax Media’s journalism intern scheme was initiated last year, and has been an outstanding success, Mr O’Hara said. The 17 interns chosen were now undergoing training before starting work at their selected news sites at the end of this year.

“Our intern scheme allows a fresh approach to the hiring of young journalists,” he said. “It has been an excellent example of co-operation between editors at Fairfax, participating journalism schools and above all the interns themselves for the benefit of all.

“It allows us to build on the commitment of Fairfax and our editors to editorial excellence. The intern scheme allows us to find and develop interns with our preferred journalism schools and we can continue to foster them through ongoing training and, later, successful career paths.”

Fairfax, which owns nine daily newspapers including The Dominion Post and The Press, two national Sunday newspapers, magazines, a magazine publishing business, internet operations, and more than 50 community newspapers throughout the country, would be seeking a similar number of interns for 2008.

They will undergo year-long training for a Diploma or Graduate Diploma in Journalism at one of five institutions that Fairfax would be working with – the University of Canterbury, Christchurch, Aoraki Polytechnic, Timaru, Massey University, Wellington, the Waikato Institute of Technology, Hamilton, and the Auckland University of Technology (AUT). Where possible, successful applicants will be trained in the institution of their choice.

▪ The opportunity to study for a year at one of the five participating institutions
▪ Work experience during course holidays at one of Fairfax's publications;
▪ Reimbursement of course fees to successful applicants
▪ Employment with a Fairfax publication at the conclusion of the course.
▪ On-going training and career development.

Jim Tully, Head of the School of Political Science and Communication at the University of Canterbury said: “We have enjoyed working with Fairfax Media to provide a strong grounding in journalism skills for its interns. It has been a most harmonious relationship reflecting a high level of mutual respect. Our independence as a quality tertiary provider has not been compromised in any way.
“Canterbury has always valued its strong links with the news industry. The intern scheme is an opportunity to work even more directly with a key media company that is committed to training and professional development.”
Wintec editor-in-residence Venetia Sherson said: “The internship scheme sits well within Wintec’s journalism training programme. The interns have the benefit of a full programme of studies with the added incentive of guaranteed employment when they complete their diploma. ”
“We have been very pleased with the calibre of the first Fairfax interns. They come from diverse backgrounds and are mature and focused. We expect them to be very good journalists.
“Wintec’s journalism programme is focused on reducing the gap between classroom and newsroom. Wintec students are involved in a range of ongoing projects with local media, including Fairfax’s Waikato and Auckland community and daily newspapers. The programme means the students can learn their craft and practice their skills in real situations which results in greater understanding and better quality of work.”
Massey Journalism head Grant Hannis said the Fairfax intern scheme has been a great success. Massey's course is a partnership between the University and the journalism industry, and the Fairfax Intern scheme has enhanced that relationship by allowing Massey to work directly with a leading news media company in the selection of its future recruits.
Fairfax interns work as hard at Massey as any of our other talented students. Fairfax has helped ensure that students who are not part of the scheme continue to enjoy all the opportunities they always had on our course," Dr Hannis said.
Aoraki Polytechnic fully supports the Fairfax Intern Scheme for the extra dimension it brings to journalism training, School of Journalism co-ordinator/tutor Peter O'Neill said.
"The scheme demonstrates early faith and investment in budding journalists, and gives them some security as they embark on an exciting career. The intern scheme fits well with Aoraki's highly regarded diploma programme, due to its focus on the print media and credibility within the industry.
"I look forward to being involved with the Fairfax scheme again in 2008, and trust successful interns will look to Timaru as an excellent training choice,'' Mr O'Neill said.
AUT journalism curriculum leader, Associate Professor Martin Hirst said participation in the scheme is a sign of strength in journalism education in this country.
“The AUT journalism programme is one of the longest-running in New Zealand and we are pleased to participate in the Fairfax Media intern scheme in 2008. Our Graduate Diploma in Journalism is recognised as one of the strongest in the country,” he said. “We are looking forward to working closely with the Fairfax editors on the training of the next generation of talented and committed journalists.”
Mr O’Hara said one of the aims of the scheme was to encourage a greater diversity of student to consider taking up journalism, and that had occurred in the 2007 intake.
“We were delighted with both the skills and the diversity of the interns, and we’re looking to continue this during 2008,” he said. “The scheme gives us the opportunity to influence the type of graduate we’re looking for and our editors need to be assured they do get the best available people.
“Journalism has become an even more exciting career prospect. We are at the stage where what were formerly seen as print journalists are starting to use audio and video on the rapidly-evolving web as part of their everyday news coverage tools, as well as print. This is a great time to be a journalist.”
Once again, the selection process will include an on-line application form including at least four written exercises. These will be marked and applicants judged to have the aptitude to make good journalists will be selected to sit a two-hour writing and general knowledge exercise designed to test journalistic aptitude at cities throughout the country. After that process, editors will choose those they wish to interview according to the publication and school preferences of the applicants.
Representatives of the participating schools take part in and approve all selected interns.
During course holidays, participants will be employed by one of Fairfax's publications. During this time, they will work with experienced journalists and have a mentor to offer support and guidance.
On the successful completion of their course, participants will be reimbursed for their course fees. Successful applicants will be bonded to Fairfax for two years.
“We said when we launched this scheme that it was an acknowledgement that recruitment, training and retention of staff is the responsibility of Fairfax Media. We cannot expect others to do it for us. But through this scheme, our relationship with our preferred training institutions has become much stronger.”

Fairfax Media will again be running its journalism intern scheme this year. Full details will be announced when the scheme is launched on July 2.

The scheme began last year and some 17 interns are now studying throughout New Zealand to become journalists at their chosen publications or websites.

Under the scheme, would-be journalists go through an on-line application and, later, written exercises. From those, Fairfax editors interview and choose interns for their publications.

This year, there will be five participating journalism training schools. AUT (the Auckland University of Technology) is joining Aoraki Polytechnic (Timaru), the University of Canterbury, Massey University (Wellington), and the Waikato Institute of Technology (Wintec).

Fairfax Media is pleased to announce it has finalised the selection of its inaugural journalism interns.

After a rigorous selection process involving testing and interviews by editors and academics, 17 students have been selected as interns at 13 of Fairfax Media’s newsrooms. They will join the company following their 2007 study.

Fairfax Media Editor-in-Chief Peter O’Hara is pleased with the talent and diversity which has come forward to apply for the internships and believes those selected will be of great value to the company and to New Zealand journalism in the future.

“The candidates all gained their places in the face of strong competition and on merit. Their general knowledge and writing standards were high, and after an in-depth interview process it was clear that we had attracted excellent talent.

“A pleasing aspect was the diversity of the successful applicants which is an indication of the changing composition and culture of New Zealand. The varied backgrounds of our applicants, including a former police officer and a refugee worker, matched one objective of expanding the traditional talent pool.’’

O’Hara also acknowledged the input of the participating tertiary institutions, Wintec, Massey University, Aoraki Polytechnic and the University of Canterbury, in the selection process.

“Our partnership with the four tertiary institutions will ensure that the interns receive the best possible journalistic training next year before they begin their employment with Fairfax Media in 2008,” says O’Hara.

The successful applicants will study for a year at one of the four institutions and potentially undertake work experience during their course holidays. After successfully completing their courses, interns will have their fees reimbursed by Fairfax Media and they will commence employment at newsrooms around the country.

Over 230 people applied for internships with Fairfax, which had aimed to appoint 20 inaugural recipients. O’Hara said the final number reflected the rigorous selection process and the search for the best quality candidates.

For further information please contact Clive Lind, Editorial Development Manager`, on 027 246 7771, or 04 496 9854 clive.lind@fairfaxnz.co.nz

The first of the Fairfax Media Journalism Interns have been selected, and editors are in the process of arranging interviews to fill the remaining positions.

Fairfax Media Editorial Development Manager Clive Lind said the process was a lengthy one but good progress was being made.

Applicants were being advised whether they would be interviewed as editors made their choices, and those not required for interviews were being advised of their positions by email.

Part of the message was that Fairfax hoped all applicants would still strive to enter journalism regardless of their intern application.

"We're encouraging all applicants to seek other opportunities at our participating partner journalism schools," he said.

Even applicants still in consideration for Fairfax publications were being asked to apply for journalism schools of their choice as the closing dates for the schools approached.

The intern scheme, which is an ongoing one, can involve only about 20 journalists across the Fairfax group.

Any applicant who was unsure of the status of their application should contact him at clive.lind@fairfaxmedia.co.nz or 027 246 7771.

Over coming months it will withdraw from employment and property listings, and move to provide more local, national and international news and information.

Fairfax Media's Group Head of Digital, Nic Cola, said that Propertystuff and Jobstuff would be integrated into Trade Me Property and Trade Me Jobs respectively.

"For the past six years Stuff has been rated this country's top online media site, and it will build on that solid reputation.

"Already Stuff receives more than 1.6 million unique visitors a month, and our target is to grow that number significantly.

"We also have plans to make the site number one in terms of entertainment, lifestyle and leisure."

From today Stuff and Trade Me will provide direct links to each other through navigation bar links.

For further information please contact Nic Cola, Group Head of Digital, Fairfax Media on 021 190 5114.

Released on behalf of Fairfax Media by Network PR, for further information please contact Dennis Lynch,

Editors of Fairfax Media publications throughout New Zealand have started interviewing their prospective journalism interns.

The interviews are being conducted in conjunction with representatives of the applicant's preferred journalism school.

Fairfax Media Editorial Development Manager Clive Lind said applicants not required for interviews at this stage were advised by email last week.

"We have advised those applicants that we hope this does not deter them from continuing to strive to enter journalism. We have encouraged them to seek other opportunities at our participating partner journalism schools.

"The intern selection has been a very difficult process. We received more about 220 applications, which exceeded all our expectations, and 100 or so were tested throughout the country. The intern scheme, which is an ongoing one, can involve only about 20 journalists across the Fairfax group."

Those finally selected as interns will have their fees refunded on successful completion of their year-long journalism course. They will also be offered further journalism training at their chosen publication once they start. They will be bonded for two years.

Mr Lind said the Fairfax website would continue to advise applicants of progress, but it was hoped all selections would be made by the end of October.

This is the first time Fairfax has offered the internships.

Representatives of the participating schools are:

Marking of test papers sat by applicants for Fairfax Media journalism interns has now been completed.

The next step is collating the papers into groups according to the Fairfax publication each particular applicant wished to work for, and sending them to editors for appraisal. After that, those selected for interviews will be asked to attend interviews with both editors and representatives of the chosen journalism school.

Fairfax Media Editorial Development Manager Clive Lind said this interview selection process would take about two weeks, and interviews would be held after that.

More than 100 people from an initial 230 applicants sat the test in 10 venues throughout New Zealand on September 9.

Those finally selected as interns will have their fees refunded on successful completion of their year-long journalism course. They will also be offered further journalism training at their chosen publication once they start. They will be bonded for two years.

Mr Lind said the Fairfax website would continue to advise applicants of progress.

This is the first time Fairfax has offered the internships. Inquiries for next year's internships are already being received, he said.

Wednesday, 13th September
Launch of the NZ Interactive Advertising Bureau Association

New Zealand’s online publishing and platform community today announced the launch of the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB NZ) Association. The IAB is an international affiliate organisation in over 20 countries which has led the drive for marketing online worldwide.

The vision of the new IAB NZ is ‘to foster world-leading standards and creativity by developing, innovating, educating and growing the interactive advertising industry in New Zealand.’

Josh Borthwick, TVNZ Interactive Sales Manager and interim Chairman of IAB NZ announced: ‘IAB NZ will further drive the development of interactive advertising and marketing nationwide through leadership, focus and by being the first point of call for advice, training and support. In overseas markets such as the USA and UK, IAB has been at the forefront of the take-up of interactive advertising.’

1. Marketing of interactive media
…………promoting interactive advertising

2. Developing powerful standards
…………raising profitability by tackling barriers and reducing costs, and self regulating the protection of interactive media users

3. Producing powerful research
…………proving the effectiveness of interactive advertising to advertisers, agencies, marketers and the public of New Zealand

4. Providing environments for members to network
…………allowing them to engage in open discussion, learn and advance better understanding of the responsibilities and duties imposed by relevant Acts and regulations; and to expand the breadth and depth of IAB NZ membership while increasing direct value to members

5. Educating the markets about the medium (events)
…………persuasion: training marketers how to use new media

6. Effective government affairs and external representation
…………protecting the freedom to advertise on interactive platforms

Borthwick reports ‘IAB NZ has major enthusiasm and backing from leading online publishers and platform owners in the industry. We want to create an independent organisation with strong values with respect to the whole interactive advertising community, leading innovation and integrity in this fast growing space.’

The formation of IAB has been driven by the Online Publishers Group (OPG) of New Zealand which includes (TVNZ, XTRAMSN, Vodafone, Fairfax, ACP Media, IDG and Yellow Pages). The OPG was created in 2001 and drove the creation of measurement standards through Nielsen//Netratings. A survey was commissioned in November 2005 to gain insight into what the wider online advertising community wanted from an industry association and this feedback has helped develop the IAB NZ vision, objectives and values. Over 96% of other industry players supported the concept of an official body and champion.

The new association will be not-for-profit under the governance of an interim board (including Chairman, Vice Chairman and Secretary / Treasurer) until the first AGM, at which point members will have the opportunity to pass comment on the board structure and its members. There will be a maximum of 10 board members representing major interactive publishers, platform operators and independent players.

1. Chairman; Josh Borthwick – Sales Manager, TVNZ Interactive
2. Vice Chairman; Spencer Bailey – Commercial Director, APN Digital Media
3. Secretary / Treasurer; Lee Williams – Digital Media Director, ACP Media
4. Board Member; Robin Dowe – Sales Manager, XtraMSN
5. Board Member; Julie Gill – MD, Infego Communications
6. Board Member; Glen Maguire – Web Services Manager, Vodafone
7. Board Member; Chris Day – Marketing Manager, Advertiser, Yellow Pages
8. Board Member; Nic Cola – Group Head of Digital-NZ Fairfax Media
9. Board Member; Kate Vale – Head of Sales – Google Australasia

The association is being set up with seed funding from the above board members with further revenues driven by membership, sponsorship and events. Full details of the structure, constitution, vision, membership and operations can be found at iab.org.nz.

It is envisaged that the association’s work will be divided among board /committee members until such time as a Chief Executive can be appointed to create a management team and lead the day to day activities of the association. The appointment of a CEO will be largely dependent on revenue generated by the group’s activities.

Scores of Fairfax Media intern applicants sat general knowledge, spelling and grammar and written tests in 10 venues across the country on Saturday (September 9).

The tests are part of Fairfax Media's intern programme whereby editors of its publications will choose interns to attend year-long courses at participating journalism schools - the University of Canterbury in Christchurch, Aoraki Polytechnic in Timaru, Massey University in Wellington and the Waikato Institute of Technology in Hamilton.

Those selected who successfully complete the course will have their fees refunded and be offered a journalism position in their chosen publication, They will be bonded for a period of two years during which time they will be given further journalism training.

Over the next week, the test papers will be marked and processed, and editors will then choose which applicants they wish to interview. Representatives of participating schools will take part in the interviews.

Fairfax Media is New Zealand's largest media company. About 20 interns will be chosen for its publications.

Fairfax Media Editorial Development Manager Clive Lind thanked all those who participated, and the people who oversaw the tests.

"It was a huge exercise," he said. "It was great to see so many people who wanted to be journalists."

The following (linked below) are the answers to the 50-question general knowledge test undertaken, plus the original version and errors etc in the spelling and grammar section.

A milestone was passed at The Manawatu Standard this morning [Monday, 4 September 2006] when the first editorial page was produced using the latest Atex Genera electronic production system.

The Manawatu Standard is the first Fairfax Media publication to convert to the new editorial, advertising and web system which will be progressively introduced to Fairfax Media publications right across New Zealand in the next few years.

Congratulating Manawatu Standard staff for achieving what he described as an important step into the future, Fairfax Media Editor in Chief, Peter O’Hara, said the introduction of Genera was a significant investment for Fairfax.

“Having all our publications on one platform, instead of the numerous production systems we have at the moment, will allow many opportunities in company-wide co-operation in both advertising and editorial,” he said.

“The spirit with which the Standard’s staff undertook to be ‘first cab off the rank’ has been well appreciated, and we wish them all the best as they complete first the Genera editorial system and then the advertising system.”

At all Fairfax Media publication sites, the editorial system will be introduced first, followed by advertising about two months later.

Manawatu Standard General Manager Gerard Watt thanked his staff for the hard work they had done in getting to this stage.

Sport and racing sections are the first pages to be produced through the new system, and the number of pages produced through Genera will progressively grow over the next few weeks as more staff are trained. Community newspapers produced by the Standard will also be moved to the new system.

Editorial work using the existing legacy Atex system will be phased out over the same period.

“While much remains to be done as we produce more pages through Genera, I want to thank the staff for the hard work done to reach this stage. It has been a huge effort.

"The Genera system also presents us with an opportunity to really scrutinise our current workflows, internal systems and practices. It's especially pleasing to see our staff contributing fully in identifying areas that we can work better - the feedback from staff to date has been excellent," Mr Watt said.

Fairfax Media’s Genera Programme Manager Celia Bailey described the “go-live” at Manawatu as a very good effort.

Editorial Project Leader Michael Stevens said the Standard, over the past few months, had carried out the massive task of analysing every operation the newspaper undertook to produce its publications, rebuilt them for the more efficient Genera system, and then tested them before the first “go-live” this morning.

Editorial at the Manawatu Standard is expected to be completely produced by Atex Genera about September 22.

Next Fairfax publication to convert is Wellington’s Dominion Post. The “go-live” process will start on October 9. It will be followed by Central Community Newspapers, Wellington, the Taranaki Daily News and the Waikato Times.

The entire project for both editorial and advertising across the group will last until late 2008 and early 2009.

Senior Fairfax Media staff have selected the applicants for the company's Journalism Intern Scheme that they wish to undergo general knowledge, grammar and spelling and writing tests on Saturday, September 9.

The tests will be held at 10 venues throughout the country.

Both successful and unsuccessful applicants have been advised. Fairfax Media Editorial Development Manager Clive Lind said sorting through the 220 applications had been extremely difficult. All unsuccessful applicants had been urged to continue their pursuit of a career in journalism through one of the four participating journalism schools - the University of Canterbury, Christchurch, Aoraki Polytechnic, Timaru, Massey University, Wellington, and the Waikato Institute of Technology, Hamilton.

He urged any applicant who had not heard from Fairfax to contact him urgently at clive.lind@fairfaxmedia.co.nz or 027 2467771.

After the test on September 9, papers will be marked and Fairfax editors will choose the applicants they wish to interview. The interviews will also involve representatives of the journalism schools the applicant wishes to attend.

Fairfax editors will choose about 20 interns who will undertake a year's journalism training at a participating journalism school before starting work at their selected publication.

Tuesday, 22nd August 2006
High number of high quality applicants applauded

About 220 applications had been received for the Fairfax Media Internship Scheme at closing time on Friday (August 18).

The huge level of interest from budding journalists has impressed Fairfax Media Chief Executive Joan Withers.

“When we created this scheme, we were hoping to widen the journalism talent pool to foster specialisation in our newsrooms and introduce fresh thinking. Judging by the response, we’re on track to achieve this,” says Ms Withers.

“Fairfax Media is committed to consistently growing the quality and scope of journalism in New Zealand and this exercise has proven the talent is out there. In fact, with such a high number of quality applicants, it’s going to be a difficult task to choose our final number of around 20,” she said.

The next step in the process involves a general knowledge, spelling, grammar and writing test at various venues around the country on Saturday, September 9.

Following that test, applicants will be selected for interviews by editors of Fairfax Media publications. These will take place in September and October and involve representatives of the participating journalism schools – the University of Canterbury - Christchurch, Aoraki Polytechnic - Timaru, Massey University - Wellington and the Waikato Institute of Technology - Hamilton.

Fairfax Media Editorial Development Manager Clive Lind said applications were now being processed and those selected for the tests on September 9 would be advised by August 30.

The first interns will start their journalistic training from February next year. Fairfax Media will reimburse the course fees of those who pass, and provide challenging work afterwards in Fairfax newsrooms as well as on-going training.

Lind said all applicants should have been advised by return email of the receipt of their applications. He urged those who had not been so advised to contact interns@fairfaxnz.co.nz urgently or contact Lind directly on 027 246 7771.

Tuesday, 25th July 2006
Waikato Institute of Technology joins Fairfax Media Journalism Intern Scheme

Fairfax Media is pleased to announce that the Waikato Institute of Technology (Wintec) will be a partner in its journalism intern scheme as one of four participating training institutes.

Wintec’s involvement has been welcomed by Fairfax’s Editor-in-Chief, Peter O’Hara, who said the Waikato institute’s involvement would add strength to the scheme in the upper North Island.

“Fairfax has a very strong relationship with Wintec and its staff through the Waikato Times. Through Wintec and the other training establishments, we will be able to offer our interns fine journalism training from which they will be well placed for their journalism careers ,” says Mr O’Hara.

The other three training institutes are the University of Canterbury, Aoraki Polytechnic in Timaru and Massey University in Wellington.

Wintec CEO Mark Flowers said the institute had made changes to its journalism programme over the past two years.

“In 2004 we appointed former Waikato Times editor Venetia Sherson as Editor-in-Residence to introduce a range of initiatives that would give our journalism graduates an edge.’’

He said Wintec students regularly worked in the Waikato Times newsroom, produced a regular column for the paper and filled in for staff on leave at Fairfax’s numerous community papers in the region.

Applications for Fairfax Media internships are now open. About 20 internships at Fairfax publications or the Stuff website are available across the country, and intern applicants nominate the organisation they would like to work for.

Applications close on August 18, 2006, via the Fairfax Media website. Applicants have to supply written and other material. Selected applicants will then sit general knowledge and writing tests, and later interviews will be carried out.

Successful applicants have their journalism course fees reimbursed on passing the year-long journalism course. During training, they are offered holiday work. On the successful completion of the course, they work at their chosen medium and are bonded for a period of two years.

Fairfax is New Zealand’s largest media company and publishes nine daily, two Sunday and more than 50 community newspapers. As well, it owns the Stuff website and the Independent Financial Review.

For further information please contact Peter O’Hara, Editor-in-Chief, Fairfax Media, telephone 09 970 4051, 027 495 9988.

Released on behalf of Fairfax Media by Network PR, for more information contact Victoria Coleman, Network PR 09 379 3154.

Fairfax Media, New Zealand's largest media company, has established a Journalism Intern Scheme. It will start at the beginning of next year, and applications are now being sought for the first intake.

WELLINGTON, NZ, March 6, 2006 - John Fairfax Holdings Limited [ASX:FXJ] has reached agreement to acquire Trade Me Limited, New Zealand's leading internet business. Trade Me accounts for over 60% of New Zealand's web traffic. The purchase price is NZ$700 million cash (A$625 million), or approximately 15.6 times expected 2007 EBITDA . Trade Me's owners will also receive up to an additional NZ$50 million over the next two financial years subject to the attainment of additional earnings targets.

The privately-held Trade Me, the leading auctions and classified advertising site in New Zealand, has 1.2 million members who are expected to host 35 million auctions this year. Trade Me is the established leader in its key general merchandise auction business in New Zealand, with 30,000-50,000 people online at any time, 50,000 new members per month, and over 600,000 items for sale at any time. Trade Me also has the leading motors and property sites, as well as sites for dating (Find Someone), community (Old Friends), and rental accommodation. With more than 2 million domestic visitors per month, Trade Me is the most visited website in NZ, and has the largest average visit length among the top 10 most visited sites. Trade Me, based in Wellington, has 48 employees.

The business was founded by Sam Morgan in 1999. Mr Morgan and other key executives will remain with the company. The transaction, which is subject to final verification of due diligence and regulatory approval under the New Zealand Overseas Investment Act, is expected to close in April.

David Kirk, CEO of Fairfax, said:

"Trade Me is an outstanding internet success story, and holds the leading position online in New Zealand in just about every category. The business has a phenomenally strong position with its huge audience, and will continue to grow its auction and classified businesses because of this.

"The acquisition of Trade Me reshapes Fairfax's earnings and business mix as part of our more aggressive push into the internet in all the markets in which we operate. As a result of our successful online investments, we are now a significantly more diversified media company.

"The strong revenue and earnings performance of Fairfax Digital in Australia, together with today's acquisition of Trade Me in New Zealand, and other online opportunities that we are pursuing, are coming together to give Fairfax a higher growth profile.

"We intend to operate Trade Me just as it is - as a standalone, highly dynamic business on its own high growth trajectory. Trade Me has well established plans for future expansion, and we will support the management to see them successfully implemented. The business will have the benefit of a joint advisory board drawn from current Trade Me directors and Fairfax executives.

"I am delighted Sam Morgan will remain with Trade Me for a good period of time. We also welcome as new colleagues the entire Trade Me staff."

Sam Morgan said:

"Thousands of Kiwis make their primary or secondary income on Trade Me. That's a responsibility we take very seriously and so keeping the marketplace running smoothly and sticking to our existing plans remains our focus.

"I've been very impressed with David and the other Fairfax executives I have met and look forward very much to working with them more in future."

Ronald Walker, Chairman of Fairfax, said, "By strengthening our position in the overall media landscape, this is a breakthrough transaction for Fairfax. The terms of the acquisition fit our investment criteria for strategic fit and shareholder returns, with excellent prospects for future earnings growth.

"Fairfax is on a sound course to further strategic growth on both sides of the Tasman."

The purchase will be funded through a combination of hybrid equity (40%) and senior debt (60%). The company will shortly launch a Step Up Preference Security ("Fairfax SPS") for approximately A$250 million through an offer to institutional and sophisticated investors. The senior debt of approximately A$375 million will be provided through a 364 day committed bridge facility which will be refinanced during 2006.

Wednesday, 1st March 2006
Fairfax Publications - Readership Results 12 Months to December 2005

The latest Nielsen readership results from Fairfax New Zealand's stable of newspapers and magazines have confirmed the strength of New Zealand's largest publisher.

Based on a combined average issue readership of its newspapers and magazines, Fairfax New Zealand reaches 84.3% or 2,677,000 New Zealanders 15 yrs+.

Among daily newspapers The Dominion Post is a stand out performer, gaining more new readers per average issue than any other daily newspaper. Readership by all people 15 yrs+ is up by 10,000 taking it to 254,000, an increase of 4.1%.

The Dominion Post has also increased penetration in the capital city, with half (50.7%) of all Wellingtonians reading the paper each day and over three quarters (75.9%) reading it each week. The newspaper continues to demonstrate extensive reach throughout the Central region.

Similarly The Press gained in readership with an extra 6,000 daily readers (+2.6%) taking it to 233,000. This paper continues to perform strongly, recording continual readership gains year on year since 2003. In Christchurch well over half of the population read the paper each day (55.3%) while an impressive 82% read it each week. The Press reaches more Mainlanders than any other newspaper.

Fairfax's third metropolitan newspaper, The Waikato Times recorded a daily readership of 94,000 with three quarters (74.5%) of Hamiltonians reading the paper in a typical week.

Commenting on these results Joan Withers, CEO, Fairfax New Zealand says: "These results show that Fairfax metropolitan newspapers continue to perform strongly with combined average issue readership increasing at both a national level and in the markets they serve."

Likewise, other Fairfax Dailies demonstrate strong market connection and relevance through high penetration levels, occupying the majority of the top 10 daily newspapers ranked by local market penetration.

Marlborough Express has the highest average issue local market penetration of any daily newspaper at 68.4%*, followed by Taranaki Daily News at 67.7%*, independent Gisborne Herald comes in 3rd place, followed by The Timaru Herald with a penetration of 64.5%*. The Southland Times (55.8%*), The Press (55.3%*) and The Nelson Mail (54.8%*) also rank in the top 10 dailies by penetration level. In comparison the NZ Herald's penetration in the Auckland market has slipped year on year to 38.6% down from 42.8%.

Combined Fairfax Regional Newspapers have remained steady year on year with a combined average issue readership of 263,000, versus 265,000 in 2004, and a combined weekly readership of 362,000, 15yrs+ nationally.

Within the weekend market, Sunday Star Times remains the country's most read Sunday newspaper based on average issue readership with 625,000 readers 10 yrs+. Sunday News remains New Zealand's most popular tabloid newspaper with a readership of 443,000, 10yrs+. Fairfax's Sunday Combo reaches 888,000 New Zealanders each weekend, demonstrating the strength of Fairfax's national reach.

The overall trend in the Auckland market remains challenging for most media, including Sunday Star-Times, which experienced a decline in readership of 6.4% 10yrs+. The Weekend Herald's penetration dropped 5.8% or 51,000 10yrs+ year on year while television's average weekend audience (10yrs+ in peak time) fell by 4.4% comparing 2005 to the previous year. According to Nielsen Media Research radio daypart measurement, weekend radio listenership also experienced a decline.

Joan Withers said the Sunday Star-Times has put significant editorial, promotional and merchandising initiatives in place to counter the overall market trend and drive growth in Auckland.

Interestingly with declines for the Weekend Herald year on year, APN has only grown their Auckland total unduplicated weekend reach by 3,000 readers comparing 2004 to 2005, despite the fact they now have an additional weekend paper. Last year the Weekend Herald recorded an Auckland readership of 447,000 15yrs+ and this year the Weekend Herald and the Herald on Sunday combined had a total reach in Auckland of just 450,000, 15yrs+.

The Sunday category shows a total of 1,052,000 New Zealanders 10 yrs+ reading one of the three Sunday newspapers, equating to nearly one third (30.2%) of all New Zealanders. Of those reading a Sunday paper 706,000 (67.1%) are exclusive Fairfax Sunday readers choosing to read either Sunday Star-Times or Sunday News. Only 15.5% of Sunday newspaper readers choose to read the Herald on Sunday exclusively.

Sunday Magazine continues to have strong appeal to readers with nearly seven out of 10 (67.9%) 10yrs+ of those who read the Sunday Star-Times choosing to read Sunday Magazine.

Fairfax Magazines strong portfolio of titles continue to hold their own in a very active magazine environment, with market-leading titles reinforcing their positions at the top of their respective categories.

NZ House & Garden held its readership level, delivering more than double that of the nearest competing Home and Garden title with 641,000 readers every issue. Cuisine further strengthened its primary readership base to 32.9%, despite a significant number of new entrants in the food category. This performance follows on from its recent Gourmet Voice World Media Award title as the "world's best food magazine". Fairfax's leading gardening title, NZ Gardener delivered 211,000 readers in its 62nd year of publication - more than double its nearest competitor.

Fairfax Specialist Magazines', Fish & Game NZ, NZ Fishing News and Boating New Zealand have seen remarkable gains in their readership year on year with increases of 21.5% to 254,000, 11.8% to 285,000 and 14.1% to 154,000 respectively, firmly cementing their spots at the top of the marine category.

Growth was achieved by the other niche Fairfax magazines. NZ Horse & Pony had a readership increase of 11.1% to 70,000 and NZ Trucking increased its readership by 2.6% to 78,000.

Sources:
Nielsen Media Research National Readership Survey Jan-Dec 2005
Nielsen Media Research National Readership Survey Jan-Dec 2004
*Nielsen Media Research Regional Readership Survey Jan-Dec 2005
AGB Nielsen Media Research TV Ratings, (Peak -1800-2230) 2004, 2005

Thursday, 25 August 2005
David Kirk Appointed CEO Of Fairfax; Dean Wills Retires As Chairman, Replaced By Ronald Walker

SYDNEY, August 25, 2005 – David Kirk MBE, the Chief Executive Officer of PMP Limited, will be appointed CEO of Fairfax, replacing Fred Hilmer AO. Mr Kirk’s appointment will be effective from late November 2005.

Mr Dean Wills AO also announced that he will be stepping down as Chairman and resign from the Board, effective tomorrow. The Board has elected Mr Ronald Walker AC CBE as Chairman.

“David Kirk is an outstanding choice to lead Fairfax. He is the right person at the right time to take us forward.

“David knows the media industry and our publishing business well. He brings the experience, energy, enthusiasm and vision for the company that we have sought in finding the successor to Fred Hilmer, who has served with such distinction and accomplished so much for Fairfax over the past seven years.

“While I have wanted to continue with the Board, I regret that I am unable, due to family commitments, to stay on as Chairman of this very special and rewarding company. I congratulate Ron Walker on his election as Chairman, and I know he will give his fullest commitment to Fairfax and its future. I thank my colleagues for their support.”

“Fairfax is one of the most outstanding and respected companies in Australia and New Zealand, with its publications fulfilling a critical role in the functioning of our democracies and our market economies. My prime objective is to continue to strengthen and grow Fairfax by creating opportunities and meeting competitive challenges.

“I have the highest respect for Fairfax’s independent, quality journalism, and for the values that underpin it.

“I thank the Board for their confidence in me. Fred Hilmer has done a superb job, and leaves the company in excellent shape, and well-positioned for future growth. He has my appreciation and friendship.

“The company is performing very well, and has an excellent management team. I support the enhanced operational focus the recent restructure has brought.

Mr Walker said, “It is a great honour and privilege to assume the chairmanship of Fairfax. During my watch as Chairman I hope to continue and enhance Fairfax's leading position in the industry by building on our achievements over the past several years in which we strengthened our business in Australia and extended it to New Zealand. We want to pursue options for future growth consistent with our commitment to shareholder value.

“As a Board, we have worked hard to ensure the highest standards of corporate governance, and I reaffirm our commitment in that regard. I look forward to chairing our Annual General Meeting, and addressing our shareholders more fully at that time.

“In particular, I want to express the Board’s appreciation for Dean Wills’ services over the last 11 years. It was under Dean’s chairmanship that the company began its current growth phase with the acquisition of the New Zealand business, Text publishing, RSVP, and a number of regional and community titles. We wish him well.”

Mr Walker said that the Board is continuing its process of renewal, and that candidates to fill at least two Board seats were being assessed, with the intent of appointing new Board members over the next few months.

Mr Hilmer said, “David Kirk’s appointment successfully concludes the search for a CEO of achievement and excellence. Fairfax is in superb shape, as will be evident when we report on Monday our financial results for the year. With David’s appointment, the company will be in good hands for the future.”

Mr Walker said Mr Hilmer will be available to the new CEO and the Board to consult on issues as required after the November handover.

The key terms of Mr Kirk’s Executive Services Agreement with the Company include a base salary of $1.2 million per year, and performance bonuses of up to 150% of base salary based on achievement of defined performance criteria set at the beginning of each financial year. Subject to shareholder approval, one third of the bonus will be paid in shares, which vest over three years from their issue. In addition, a one-off special compensation is provided of $1.2 million in benefits foregone from previous employment, with $400,000 payable on commencement of employment, and equal instalments of $400,000 payable of 1 July 2006 and 1 July 2007. The complete employment contract has been posted with the Australian Stock Exchange.

Lifetime newspaperman Paul Elenio has been appointed General Manager of the Fairfax Central Region, Fairfax New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Joan Withers said today.

Mr Elenio, aged 50, will have overall management responsibility for newspapers across Central New Zealand, including the Dominion Post and Manawatu Standard and associated community newspapers.

``I am delighted we have been able to choose an outstanding candidate, following a very competitive internal process. Paul will do an excellent job leading some of our key newspapers through the next stage of their progress,'' Joan Withers said.

"Fairfax is pleased that because of the great depth and experience of our people, we are able to continue our practice of promoting from within."

Currently General Manager of the Manawatu Standard, Paul Elenio is an experienced journalist who also worked extensively in advertising and circulation departments at daily newspapers in Wellington.

He is a former assistant general manager of Wellington Newspapers Ltd and Deputy Editor of the Evening Post. As a journalist, he also worked as a news editor, deputy chief reporter, sports editor and reporter for the Evening Post.

Paul Elenio joined the Evening Post as a reporter in 1972 and his whole career has been with the publishing company now owned by Fairfax.

One of the highlights of his career was his role as a member of a small team which planned the merger of The Dominion and Evening Post in 2002.

He has also led projects for Fairfax and over the last year successfully built on improvements at the Manawatu Standard. The Palmerston North newspaper was recently named Qantas newspaper of the year for newspapers under 25,000 circulation.

``Under Paul's leadership, Manawatu has been making strong progress. Paul is a proven performer whose skills will now be applied across the region and New Zealand as part of the senior Fairfax management team,'' Joan Withers said.

Paul Elenio said he was delighted to accept the appointment, which he described as the highlight of his career.

"I am enjoying my time in Palmerston North, working with a great team. The Manawatu Standard has an exciting future and I will keep in close contact with the city, the province and the people, especially as the paper's building redevelopment project progresses.

"I am also looking forward to returning to Wellington and the Dominion Post and working with the talented people there too. The newspaper has made enormous strides since the merger three years ago and I anticipate that we can build on that momentum over the next few years."

Joan Withers thanked the Central Region executive team, led by David Penny, for their stewardship of the business during the recent general management change, and all employees in the region for contributing to an outstanding 2004-05 financial year.

Tuesday, 24 May 2005
Joan Withers appointed CEO, Fairfax New Zealand;
Don Churchill as Managing Director, Victoria;
and James Hooke as Managing Director, New South Wales

SYDNEY, May 24, 2005 – John Fairfax Holdings Limited [ASX:FXJ] today announced the appointments of Joan Withers as the new CEO of Fairfax New Zealand, Don Churchill as the new Managing Director, Victoria, and James Hooke as the new Managing Director, New South Wales. Ms Withers will report to Fred Hilmer, CEO. Mr Churchill and Mr Hooke will report to Brian Evans, Chief Operating Officer, Australia.

Mr Fred Hilmer, CEO, Fairfax, said:

“Joan is exceptionally well-placed to lead our New Zealand business. For nearly a year, Joan has served on the company’s Board of Directors. Previously, she served on the Advisory Board established to help guide our investment in Fairfax New Zealand. Over the past 8 years, Joan has been a professional company director, serving on the boards of some of New Zealand’s leading companies. Prior to that, Joan was Chief Executive of The Radio Network of New Zealand after a career in both print and broadcasting in New Zealand.”

Ms Withers said, “Having seen at close quarters the superb job Brian Evans and his New Zealand team have done in making Fairfax’s acquisition in this country a major strategic and financial success, it is a privilege to be given the opportunity to lead the New Zealand business.”

Mr Hilmer said that Ms Withers will resign from the Fairfax Board and all but one of her other directorships and will join Fairfax New Zealand full time during July.

“In filling these critical positions, I am pleased we have promoted from within, drawing on exceptional individuals from our businesses in Australia and New Zealand,” Mr Hilmer said. “Joan has been a highly successful media executive and a valuable member of our Board. Don and James have strong track records in strengthening their businesses through innovation in publishing, revenue growth and tight cost management. Our publishing and commercial operations in New Zealand, Victoria and New South Wales are in the hands of three proven, able and dedicated media executives.”

Mr Evans said:

“I am delighted with the appointments of our new Managing Directors in Victoria and New South Wales. Over the past two years, I have worked very closely with Don Churchill following our acquisition of Fairfax New Zealand. As General Manager, Fairfax Central Region and The Dominion Post, Don planned and implemented the merger of the two dailies forming The Dominion Post in 2001, which became the country's second biggest selling daily newspaper. He ultimately assumed overall responsibility for Fairfax's businesses in central New Zealand. He will make an exceptional contribution in directing our activities in Victoria.

“James Hooke assumed responsibility for Fairfax Regional and Community Newspapers when I was appointed CEO in New Zealand. James has done an outstanding job in continuing the group’s excellent operating performance. He directed the successful integration of Text Media following last year’s acquisition. He has overseen an expansion in FRCN’s publishing operations, with nearly a dozen new titles added to during his tenure.

“The Metropolitan, Regional and Community Newspaper group has over 60 mastheads in New South Wales and Victoria, and generates a substantial share of the company’s revenues and profits. With Don’s and James’ commitment to excellence and quality in journalism, and to superior business performance, I know we will work well together as a team, and that they will help lead the company forward in Victoria and New South Wales.”

Mr Churchill said, “"I am extremely pleased to be joining Fairfax's publishing interests in Victoria and look forward to driving its plans to refocus its efforts in the State. I am privileged to be associated with The Age, one of the country's great newspapers, and the many other fine titles and businesses. I look forward to working closely with the existing highly talented team, and to moving to this exciting city."

Mr Hooke said, ”I am delighted to be appointed to this role. For the past two years I have enjoyed working with the great team at Fairfax Regional and Community Newspapers. This team has achieved some wonderful goals during this time – ranging from a Walkley Award for investigative journalism at The Illawarra Mercury to the launch of more than 10 new suburban titles.

“I grew up with The Sydney Morning Herald and The Sun-Herald – they are excellent newspapers which set the news agenda in Sydney and across NSW. I look forward to working closely with the excellent staff at these papers as well as to continuing my relationships with the great staff within FRCN NSW.”

Thursday, 31 March 2005
Fairfax Resurrects Young Creative Competition For Cannes

Fairfax New Zealand has announced the Fairfax New Zealand Young Creative of the Year competition. The national competition will decide who will represent New Zealand in the 'Young Creatives' component of the Cannes International Advertising Festival in June.

The competition will open on Friday 1 April with the brief available then from www.stuff.co.nz . People must enter in pairs, consisting of one copywriter and one art director/graphic designer. To be eligible entrants must be born after 25 June 1976, hold a current New Zealand passport and be employed by a New Zealand agency.

The competition runs for two weeks, closing on Friday 15 April 2005. Judging will take place on the week commencing 18 April and a function to announce the winning team will be held on 21 April 2005.

The winning pair will travel to Cannes courtesy of Fairfax to compete against 30 other countries for the international title.

Cannes New Zealand festival representative and Fairfax sales and marketing manager, Sandra King, said she was delighted to be able to resurrect the Young Creative competition after a two year absence.

"We are pleased to be able to reward and encourage New Zealand's rising talent and give them the opportunity to compete amongst the world's best," said Ms King. "As one of the most creative industries in the world it is key that New Zealand will once again be represented at Cannes."

For enquiries email youngcreatives@fairfaxnz.co.nz or contact Sandra King, NZ festival representative on 09 970 4000.

Tuesday, 29 March 2005
Fairfax New Zealand Appointment - National And Specialist Publishing

Clive Nelson has been appointed to a new role in Fairfax New Zealand as part of the company's drive to develop its publishing business, Chief Executive Officer Brian Evans said today.

In his role of General Manager of National and Specialist Publishing, Clive Nelson will lead a number of significant business initiatives, Brian Evans said.

Formerly Business Manager of Fairfax Sundays, Clive will have responsibility for a number of current and planned publications.

Wednesday, 23 March 2005
Fairfax New Zealand Finance Limited To Issue Redeemable Preference Shares In New Zealand (23 March 2005) [pdf]

John Fairfax Holdings Limited (Fairfax) [ASX:FXJ] announced today that it proposes to issue up to NZ$200 million of RPS (Redeemable Preference Shares) in Fairfax New Zealand Finance Limited through an offer to New Zealand investors. Fairfax New Zealand Finance Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fairfax Corporation Pty Limited whose ultimate parent company is John Fairfax Holdings Limited.

It is intended that the proceeds raised under the offer will be used by Fairfax to repay existing debt, for general corporate purposes and to assist Fairfax in diversifying its funding base.

RPS holders will be entitled to receive quarterly dividend payments, which are expected to be fully imputed. If a dividend is not imputed or partially imputed, the cash dividend will be increased to compensate for the unimputed amount. The dividend return will be fixed until the first reset date on 15 June 2006. Thereafter, the dividend return will be set annually at a fixed margin over the relevant one year benchmark rate. The fixed dividend return for the
first year and fixed margin for the subsequent years will be determined through a bookbuild process, which will be conducted prior to the launch of the RPS issue. The RPS will only be offered to New Zealand residents.

The RPS will be treated as debt for accounting purposes and will be redeemable on 15 June 2010. Full terms and conditions of the RPS (including redemption provisions) will be detailed in a combined prospectus and investment statement, which will be available to New Zealand investors in mid-April.

UBS New Zealand Limited will be the Arranger, Lead Manager and Organising Participant for
the offer.

No money is currently being sought and no applications for the RPS will be accepted unless the subscriber has received the combined prospectus and investment statement.

Thursday, 11 November 2004
Sunday Star-Times NZ's Biggest-Selling Newspaper

The latest ABC audit has confirmed that the Sunday Star-Times has the biggest official circulation of any New Zealand newspaper.

The news was also positive for metropolitan daily newspapers in the Fairfax stable with The Press, Waikato Times and The Dominion Post all experiencing lifts in circulation.

Year-on-year figures to September 2004 show circulation for the Sunday Star-Times increased from 210,519 to 210,898. Circulation for The Sunday Star-Times' sister publication The Sunday News remained steady at 114,849. The Dominion Post increased to 98,229, The Press lifted to 90,828 and the Waikato Times reached 41,849.

Brian Evans, CEO of Fairfax New Zealand said the performance of the two Sunday and three metropolitan papers was very encouraging.

"The circulation figures for the Sunday Star-Times and Sunday News provide us with an extremely strong foundation as we enter a more competitive Sunday environment. It is also very good news for our advertisers. Through our two Sunday papers they can access a large audience right across the country - no other papers can deliver that."

"The lifts in circulation for The Press, The Dominion Post and Waikato Times are a credit to the editors and their teams who are continually developing the papers to ensure they meet the needs of their readers and advertisers."

Wednesday, 14 September 2004
MAX Gives Auckland a New Urban Lifestyle Magazine - And a New Publication For Employment And Recruitment

Forget the traffic gridlock, the high cost of living and losing the Ranfurly Shield….for those who live or travel into central Auckland for work, study or play, life just got a whole lot better with the announcement of a new, free weekly magazine, AucklandMax.

AucklandMax, a Fairfax New Zealand publication, combines the pace and edge of the new generation of free commuter newspapers that are such a success worldwide with the buzz and glamour of magazines - and for readers on the move up, new listings of the hot jobs in the greater Auckland area.

The new publication will particularly target the *80,000-plus people who travel into Auckland daily for work or business.

Designed to be read cover-to-cover in 20 minutes, with bite-sized consumption of lifestyle issues, from food to fashion, shopping to sex, AucklandMax covers our city - and your career opportunities as well.

Each week the editorial team, led by former Girlfriend editor Debbie Holmes, will bring to the reader the latest news, trends and gossip as well as reviews of the best restaurants, bars and gadgets. A comprehensive recruitment section, with employment listings from agencies and businesses, will complete the content.

Fairfax New Zealand's chief executive officer, Brian Evans, said that the new magazine is an alternative to reach 18 - 34 year-old urban professionals who are hard to reach by traditional media, have high disposable incomes, and work, shop and play in the central city area.

"Research shows us that heavy consumption of traditional print media by 18 - 34 year-olds in Auckland has dropped.

``Only **8.8% of the Herald's readers are 18-34 years and living in the Central Auckland area. Readership of the Herald by those 18-34 years living in the Central Auckland area has dropped from **49.2% to 39.2% in the eight years to 2004.

"The inclusion of a comprehensive magazine and web recruitment section will be good news for employers who in the past have struggled to capture this Auckland audience through traditional media.

"Employers are seeking new avenues in print for job listings, and we are providing it in a new publication that will reach the passive job seeker.''

The arrival of this magazine concept in New Zealand during a tight employment market was welcomed by David Wilson, managing director of Haines e-Recruiting, who has seen the success of this type of product overseas.

``Fairfax launching Max creates opportunities for the recruitment sector. Having a viable, innovative new option will be welcomed by employers and candidates alike.''

Starting during October, AucklandMax will be distributed extensively throughout Auckland's CBD, via vending machines, in cafes and bars, key retail outlets, gyms, and other high foot traffic areas for younger readers. Business and residential box holders within the CBD will also receive copies of AucklandMax.

Fairfax will also make the concept available in Wellington and Christchurch to capitalise on younger professionals who want to assess job opportunities in Auckland.

The full-year results announcement and preliminary final report for John Fairfax Holdings Ltd. are now available from the FXJ website : http://www.fxj.com.au/ .

New Zealand's second oldest daily newspaper - The Daily News - has undergone a major revamp.

The paper will now be called Taranaki Daily News, its original title, which was dropped in the early 1960's.

It is 13 years since the front page banner and layout was last changed. One striking feature on the new masthead is the incorporation of a picture of the mountain, which creates instant recognition for readers throughout the country.

General Manager Mike Brewer said it was important that the newspaper continued to improve the quality and service to its readers.

"We are fortunate to have a very strong loyalty to our local paper. But with the increasing demands on people's leisure time, we need to create a more visually attractive front page to stimulate interest and a desire to purchase".

Long-serving Editor Lance Girling-Butcher has overseen the many changes. "We believe that the paper will be easier to read, it will be easier to find things and more appealing to the eye".

The first edition of the new look newspaper is Saturday 21st August.

Monday, 2 August 2004
Fairfax Appoints NZPA Chief to New Position of Group Editor

Fairfax New Zealand announced today it had created the new position of Group Editor and appointed New Zealand Press Association Editor John Crowley to the role.

Chief Executive Officer Brian Evans said Mr Crowley's appointment, and that of Clive Lind last week to the position of Editorial Development Manager, should be seen as confirmation the publishing company was determined to embark on group-wide editorial development.

''These appointments provide Fairfax with the expertise and talent to ensure that as a group we work together to make the most of our editorial talent and resources, focus on development of the quality of our mastheads and make gains through technology,'' Mr Evans said.

''Fairfax firmly believes in investing in the quality of its editorial and we are delighted to be able to make these two strategically-important appointments.''

Both positions report to the Fairfax New Zealand Chief Operating Officer and Editor-in-Chief, Peter O'Hara, who said the Group Editor's role will be mainly dedicated to developing ways in which the group's nine daily newspapers, two national Sundays and extensive portfolio of magazines plus community newspapers work together.

''We will ensure our best talent is showcased across our extensive network of publications. We are also making sure we provide for the best possible planning and execution of group opportunities, including major event coverage.''

Mr O'Hara said the skills John Crowley had demonstrated in managing the national news agency were ideal for the role Fairfax envisaged.

''Our editors are very familiar with Mr Crowley's achievements at NZPA and his leadership style, and we know that he will be ideal in building a group approach to editorial coverage.''

The Group Editor will work with Fairfax editors in developing initiatives and co-ordinating co-operation between publications. He will also organise Fairfax New Zealand group assignments and combined coverage.

Mr Crowley will take a leading role in the group's endeavours to improve standards of journalism, including implementation and management of a Fairfax journalism traineeship scheme. He will also from time to time be available to deputise for an Editor.

John Crowley has been editor of NZPA for the last eight years, and was previously news editor. He joined NZPA in 1990 and has actively led the agency's development as a news generator.

Prior to 1990 he was news editor of the Christchurch Star daily, and before that chief reporter of the newspaper. He also worked as a journalist for the Daily Post in Rotorua.

Mr Lind, the current Editor of the Manawatu Standard, will focus on individual masthead development and technology change, in his new role.

Both appointments take effect on November 1 2004.

Fairfax New Zealand is delighted with the progress its business has made over the last year and is well-placed and well-prepared to meet new competition in Auckland.

Fairfax New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Brian Evans said:``We see significant opportunities for extending our franchises and growing our share of the Auckland advertising market and overall, and we will vigorously pursue them.''

Mr Evans said the APN announcement was the worst-kept secret in New Zealand publishing history, and Fairfax was fully prepared.

Mr Evans added: ``We have and continue to have the only major national newspapers. The Sunday Star-Times and Sundays News provide national readership, unlike the apparent aim of the APN publication, which appears to be an Auckland product.''

Nearly one million New Zealanders 10 years plus read a Fairfax Sunday newspaper and of those nearly two thirds do not read the Weekend Herald, in a typical week.*

``The new publication will apparently be a tabloid circulated in Auckland and should not be compared with two truly national newspapers.

``Fairfax has an established, award-winning quality broadsheet in the Sunday Star-Times plus a stablemate in the Sunday News which has well-established support across the country.''

He noted that readers had supported improvements to the Sunday Star-Times over the past year, including the recently-launched Sunday magazine, ``which has added a fantastic new read and dimension to New Zealand's leading Sunday newspaper''.

The Sunday Star-Times has increased markedly in circulation in recent years and has been vying with the Auckland-based Herald for the position of largest circulation in New Zealand.

An Auckland section in the Sunday Star-Times, About Town, had grown dramatically and this weekend will comprise 48 pages, with more development to come.

``The Sunday Star-Times has increased its popularity to the point where it won Qantas Newspaper of the Year - beating all other newspapers including dailies - this year.

Mr Evans also said: ``Our Suburban newspapers, which are very well-established local publications providing an excellent service to readers, have performed superbly since our purchase.

``We are the leading Suburban publisher in New Zealand and proud of our position in Auckland where we are by far the major provider of local news to communities right across the region.''

The Suburban publications had lifted significantly in performance in comparison to their failed rival, The Aucklander.

"We are committed to protecting and enhancing the value of our investment and publishing franchises," Mr Evans said.

Wednesday, 28 July 2004
Clive Lind Appointed Fairfax Editorial Development Manager

Fairfax New Zealand announced today that Clive Lind, who has been editor of three New Zealand daily newspapers, will be the company's Editorial Development Manager.

Fairfax New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Brian Evans said Clive Lind will have the major tasks of leading editorial and business initiatives, particularly in ensuring that individual Fairfax newspapers continue to develop their editorial content to meet the needs of the communities they serve.

``Clive's appointment comes at a time of exciting change in the group, as Fairfax focuses on excellence in New Zealand publishing and as we move to advance our use of technology in newsrooms and elsewhere in the business.''

Clive Lind is currently editor of the Manawatu Standard, and previously was editor of Wellington's Evening Post and the Southland Times in Invercargill.

Brian Evans paid tribute to his outstanding work as an editor, noting that the Manawatu Standard had lifted the quality of its editorial content significantly during Clive Lind's editorship.

``Clive has led the Standard to new levels of performance and we will be looking to him to assist other newspapers to continue to meet the needs of their readers.

``In his new role he will also be available to provide advice on the continuing developing of the Standard, along with our other newspapers.''

He will take up his new position on November 1.

Clive Lind said: ``It's been a privilege to work with a highly talented editorial team in Palmerston North, and we have achieved significant results that readers have appreciated.''

In particular, he said, The Standard's coverage of the disastrous floods of February 2004 attracted national praise and international attention.

``Covering a major disaster, the effects of which only unfold over the weeks after the initial impact, is extremely hard and demanding work and our staff were superb.''

Numerous other new features, particularly those concentrating on the region's achievers and achievements and young people, have also been well received by readers.

In that regard, Clive Lind said a revamped Letters to the Editor section had been so successful that the paper now struggled to find space for all readers' letters. Connecting with readers in such a way meant the Standard was the major forum for debate in Manawatu.

``Working with such a willing team that relishes challenge and doing things better has been one of the most rewarding times of my career, and I'll miss them. But a new editor will bring fresh impetus to our quest for constant improvement.''

As a reporter, Clive Lind jointly won a national prize for investigative journalism, but said his greater enjoyment was seeing young people working under his stewardship take many major awards.

Throughout his career, Lind has also been involved in significant projects ranging from the establishment of new papers to the introduction of electronic editorial systems.

He said his role in the new Fairfax position of Editorial Development Manager, based in Wellington, would be a huge change of emphasis from the day-to-day challenges of editing a daily newspaper.

Leading editorial and business improvement and helping to manage programmes to lift editorial content across the Fairfax New Zealand group would be an exciting opportunity at a time when new technology and change were constant.

``I'm really looking forward to working with others so that Fairfax publications keep pace with or ahead of the opportunities that lie ahead,'' he said.

The position of editor of the Manawatu Standard will be advertised throughout the country.

Fairfax New Zealand is pleased to announce the appointment of award-winning editor Chris Baldock to the editorship of the Sunday News.

Chris, 43, has more than 20 years' experience in newspaper journalism, design and production and has edited Player Magazine and The Cut since arriving in New Zealand from Britain in 2002.

Under his editorship Player Magazine won both Qantas and Magazine Publishers' Association Awards, and Chris was named Best Editor, Specialist Magazines in the MPA Awards 2004.

Fairfax New Zealand chief operating officer and editor-in-chief, Peter O'Hara, said: "Chris has a wealth of experience, especially in the areas of sport, production and design. We are confident his appointment as editor will help build on the continued success of the Sunday News."

Before moving to New Zealand, Chris was head of sport at the Daily and Sunday Express newspapers in London. He has also worked on The Independent, Today newspaper and the Daily Mirror.

Chris said: "This is an exciting time for the Sunday News. I look forward to working with the team."

Sunday News is New Zealand's third-biggest selling newspaper, with more than 500,000 readers nationwide.

The current editor, Clive Nelson, has been promoted to business manager, Fairfax Sunday Newspapers, working across titles including the Sunday News and Sunday Star-Times.

Fairfax New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Brian Evans today announced a number of senior appointments which will strengthen the group's printing and publishing business across the country.

Gavin Marshall will become Group Finance Manager, based in Wellington.

Clive Nelson has been promoted to Business Manager - Fairfax Sunday Newspapers, based in Auckland.

Gareth Codd has been appointed assistant general manager of the Southland Times, based in Invercargill. The General Manager of the Southland Times, Barry Appleby, has taken on additional responsibilities as deputy general manager of the Fairfax southern region, covering Christchurch, Timaru and Invercargill, and consequently Gareth Codd will assist with general management of the Southland Times.

Julie Eley has been promoted from deputy editor to Editor of TV Guide.

Stephen Nicholas has been appointed Group Financial Accountant, based in the Wellington corporate office.

Paul Elenio was recently announced as General Manager of the Manawatu Standard and commences in that role on Monday next week.

At the same time, Fairfax New Zealand has asked Barry Leitch to review North Island commercial printing operations.

Brian Evans said Barry Leitch, General Manager of Suburban Newspapers in Auckland, will bring significant commercial printing expertise to that part of the group's business, as Fairfax develops new opportunities.

He added that Clive Nelson is stepping up to a leading role in the continuing growth and performance of the whole Fairfax Sundays business.

Clive Nelson will continue as Editor of the Sunday News, but will immediately relinquish his Truth and Racing title responsibilities.

Brian Evans said Clive Nelson has demonstrated creative and commercial flair in the Sunday News role and his skills will be valuable across the whole Sundays business. He will act as general manager of Fairfax Sundays in any absence of the general manager, David Mackenzie.

Gavin Marshall will have responsibilities for the group's financial and reporting processes, in addition to his leadership of business improvement for the Fairfax New Zealand group.

Gareth Codd, Advertising Manager of the Southland Times, will continue in that role but in addition take on responsibility for the Southland Times' regional offices in Mosgiel, Balclutha, Gore and Queenstown. He will deputise for the general manager.

Stephen Nicholas is a chartered accountant who joins Fairfax on June 28 from AMP where he has had accounting and business information manager roles. He will report to the Group Finance Manager, who reports to the Chief Financial Officer.

Brian Evans said he is delighted that these positions, including some new ones, have created opportunities for high-calibre candidates, both internal and external. ``The Fairfax New Zealand structure will be strengthened as a result and this will enable us to develop some exciting opportunities.''

Tuesday, 17 February 2004
Senior Management Appointments Announced by Fairfax New Zealand

Two senior appointments in the Fairfax New Zealand group were announced by the Chief Executive Officer, Brian Evans, today.

David Mackenzie will become General Manager of Fairfax Sundays, and Sue McPherson will become General Manager of an expanded Waikato division.

David Mackenzie is currently General Manager of the Hamilton-based Waikato Times and Sue McPherson is General Manager of the Independent Community Newspapers division, based at Pukekohe.

Brian Evans said David Mackenzie's outstanding management skills, as demonstrated at the Waikato Times and previously in senior roles at The Press in Christchurch, will assist the ongoing development of the Sunday Star-Times and Sunday News.

Sue McPherson will manage the Waikato Times and associated community newspapers in or adjacent to the Waikato region. All newspapers formerly in the ICN group will be under the Waikato division's management except for those based in Northland, which will now be managed by Suburban Newspapers in Auckland.

"Sue is an experienced newspaper manager and journalist who will lead the management of the Waikato Times, a newspaper with a proud tradition and of increasing significance to Fairfax in this important growth region. She will also develop synergies between that newspaper plant and surrounding community newspapers,'' Brian Evans said.

This will enhance the Fairfax regional structure which has newspapers gaining benefits from being grouped around major operations in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, and now Hamilton.

Brian Evans said: "I am delighted that David and Sue are joining the Senior Management Team of Fairfax New Zealand. The company has outstanding growth prospects in both these divisions and I am pleased that talented managers from within our group are gaining these opportunities under Fairfax management.''

It had been previously announced that Terry Quinn, currently managing Fairfax Sundays, would become Fairfax New Zealand Editorial Development Manager, leading the development of the group's titles and other editorial initiatives.

The appointments announced today will take effect on March 1.