NZPA Review

Media Release

3 June 2008

NZPA Review Media Release

The New Zealand Press Association (NZPA) is proposing to streamline its news gathering operations by reducing staff and other costs and investing in new technology.

NZPA provides news, images and other services to all daily and Sunday newspapers, as well as television, radio and internet customers.

The agency’s international wire services are to be rationalised as part of a plan to reduce costs while focussing on the changing needs of the media market.

Announcing the proposed changes today, NZPA Chief Executive Lincoln Gould said the agency’s shareholders were looking for reduced costs but enhanced efficiency through investment in a new editorial and content delivery system. NZPA is owned by the country’s major newspaper publishers.

“The 128 year old agency has been supplying news media in this country with a highly valued service which has kept pace with ever changing requirements of customers and technology - it will continue to do so,” said Mr Gould.

Staff reductions being proposed amount to seven full time equivalent positions (out of a total of 55) spread across most departments of the agency. Staff have been informed of the proposals today and have been asked for feedback. Consultation with all staff will continue over the next two weeks before final decisions are made.

ENDS

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