News website fills gap in media landscape

News website fills gap in media landscape

New Zealand’s media landscape is changing. We’ve seen the demise of Campbell Live on TV3, the introduction of fast-paced, pop-culture ‘news,’ and reality TV continues to proliferate.

Now, there’s a new kid on the block: www.kiwimatters.com. It’s an alternative to mainstream media, focusing on what’s happening to and among ordinary and extraordinary New Zealanders.

Journalists and communicators Louise Richardson and Helen Slater are behind this bright and busy news and lifestyle website. They’ve identified a gap, where the stories need to be told about the people who don’t usually get in the headlines yet contribute in outstanding ways and help change our communities.

“Yes, we’re a start-up. One with potential and one that’s already stirring interest after just over two months live,” Helen says.

“We’re interested in the news that makes up the foundations of our society. The ‘big’ issues of the day – politics and policies – ripple throughout New Zealand’s communities and it’s the stories about how people respond to those effects in whatever way, that need to be told,”

In addition, www.kiwimatters.com covers the lighter (but necessary) side of life – food, fashion, travel, arts and culture.

“We’re tapping into the community in lots of different ways. Traditionally, journalists have cultivated their ‘sources’ to find the big, breaking news of the day. But there’re plenty of other equally interesting stories out there and that’s where we want people’s contributions.”

kiwimatters.com is arranged in three distinct categories: Community, for community-based contributions, such as our travel columnists Carol Knox and Glen McIntosh; Catch the Drift for the more serious side of life - business, property, health, people profiles; and Style & Era for lifestyle news - food (see food editor Jo Keppel's delicious recipes), plus fashion, and art.

“We’re pretty excited about this, we’re buzzing with ideas and we’ve already had great feedback,” Louise says.

Kiwimatters.com is providing plenty of opportunities for companies, community organisations and SME’s as well.

“If it’s a story, we want to hear it. We want to share the things that matter to NZ communities and individuals, whoever and wherever they are – what people are achieving, what they’re contributing.

“What’s more, if you want to promote what you (or your clients) are doing, then come and talk with us about creative integration. We know business and community organisations need to be heard and this is another way of doing that,” Louise says.

“It’s about being interactive, with people getting involved and contributing as well. We aim to nurture young talent wherever possible and have some exciting features coming up in this area.

Kiwimatters.com also provides opportunities for traditional on-line advertising.

“We’d love your feedback and ideas, so please, visit the website, share it, subscribe, join us on Facebook and Twitter, then do come talk with us.”

news@kiwimatters.com

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