NZME Changes Spelling of Whanganui Brands

Friday 7 September 2018

7 September 2018 – NZME announced today the spelling of their titles Wanganui Chronicle, Wanganui Midweek and Wanganui Chronicle Weekend Edition are all changing to include an ‘h’ as in Whanganui.

Mark Dawson, editor of the Whanganui Chronicle, says the paper has always reflected the district it represents, and prides itself on being a local paper that serves the community.

“We are changing our name to the Whanganui Chronicle, a decision which reflects not only the name of our district, but also the correct Māori spelling. Aptly, we have chosen the start of Māori Language Week to make the change.”

The district’s name changed from Wanganui to Whanganui on December 1, 2015. Whanganui in te reo Māori (the Māori language) means ‘big bay’ or ‘big harbour’, and reflects the sacred nature of the area to Māori people and the special place it has held in New Zealand settlers’ history.

Mayor of Whanganui Hamish McDouall says, “"Congratulations to the Whanganui Chronicle for their change of name. I know the change to the masthead of New Zealand's oldest newspaper will not change the quality of their reportage of the happenings in our beautiful district, or of their holding elected officials to account."

Michael Boggs, CEO of NZME says he is proud to see the Chronicle make this change. “Although one letter may seem small, it marks an incredibly important change for us. We are looking forward to bringing the paper in line with the appropriate te reo spelling and continuing to celebrate the Whanganui community.”

The change to the 162 year old paper brings the masthead in line with all government departments in the area, as well as the police and courts, MetService, media and many other businesses and organisations.

The change will be effective Monday 10 September, and will be permanent.

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