September 25, 2008

New Zealand’s first online current affairs and culture magazine launches

AUCKLAND—Pundit, New Zealand’s first online current affairs and culture magazine, launches today.

The site, www.pundit.co.nz, offers in-depth analysis of events in New Zealand and abroad, commentary from the most insightful political writers, polls, blogs, aggregated news, and a selective view of New Zealand’s cultural life. It is modeled on successful online publications such as Slate, Salon and The Huffington Post.

Besides being a hub for intelligent debate, Pundit will also be a lively community. Members of the public are invited to contribute stories of their own and engage in the debate.

All content is free to view and available online only.

Pundit has formed partnerships with Pew Research, the Council on Foreign Relations, and Australian news site Crikey.

Founding editor Tim Watkin, former deputy editor of the Listener, says, “Pundit will be home to the best current affairs commentary in New Zealand and some great, provocative writing.”

Watkin will edit Pundit’s political and current affairs coverage. He is joined by Eleanor Black, former associate editor of California magazine, who will edit the culture section, and veteran broadcaster Ian Fraser.

Contributors include former TV3 political editor Jane Young, leading political scientist Dr Jon Johansson, New Orleans-based novelist Paula Morris, novelist and arts writer Kelly Ana Morey, Guardian America writer Richard Adams, agriculture expert Dr Jacqueline Rowarth, David Beatson, former press secretary to Jim Bolger, and David Lewis, former press secretary to Helen Clark.

The website was built by Rachel Cunliffe of Cre8d Design.

For more information go to www.pundit.co.nz

ENDS

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