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You may have seen them out and about every two weeks, but the walkers who distribute Hibiscus Matters are an essential part of the team. They have been out and about delivering papers in rain (lots of rain this year) and shine throughout the year, so a big thank you to them, and to our readers for all your support in 2025.
Distribution managers Rosemary and Peter Weitz have overseen deliveries since 2017. They coordinate around 100 walkers who deliver about 23,000 papers each issue across Whangaparāoa Peninsula, Ōrewa, Millwater and Milldale. Bulk drops go to locations such as Dairy Flat, Waiwera, Pūhoi, supermarkets and dairies.
Walkers range in age from children to people in their 80s. Many are retirees who enjoy the routine, while others use a run as a first job or a way to stay active. Rosemary says she is always happy to hear from anyone interested in taking on a round, and there are also opportunities for part-time fill-ins when regular walkers are away.
She says paper delivery is not always straightforward. Safety is the priority, so areas without footpaths or heavy traffic are sometimes unsuitable. Seasonal issues can also affect access.
Flowering plants around letterboxes can attract bees or wasps, which can deter deliveries. Papers can be delivered to boxes with a No Junk Mail sign, but not to those marked Posted/Addressed Mail Only or No Newspapers. Hibiscus Matters has stickers available for readers who want to ensure they receive the paper.
If there are any problems with delivery, readers are encouraged to contact admin@localmatters.co.nz. To enquire about becoming a walker, email Rosemary Weitz at hmdelivery@localmatters.co.nz.
Walker voices
Lisa Black: “Delivering the papers is one of my highlights of the fortnight. Getting to stretch the legs, chat to the local dogs and cats who now are used to me, and the occasional chocolates, vegetables, fruit or a drink on hot days are all the delights of completing the paper round. A personal success is converting four non-believers into Hibiscus Matters fans. I also love chatting to the two people who rush to the library on the Monday of delivery so they can do the crossword before I deliver. Have a wonderful festive season and I look forward to another Hibiscus Matters year.”
Zach and Julie Taylor: “Long-time Hibiscus Matters deliverers, getting some exercise with some pocket money and providing a community service. Merry Christmas.”
Glenn Evans: “I enjoy meeting the neighbours, seeing the sights, getting exercise and giving people a great freebie – Hibiscus Matters! What a life!”
Jessie Prowse: Jessie, who is in her mid-80s, delivered three runs in 2018 before an accident sidelined her for a time. She returned in 2024 and now completes two large runs. John built her a custom trolley with a lid, strong enough for her to sit and rest when needed.
Diane and Bob Burch: Bob and Diane, both in their 80s, picked up a round in Ōrewa in 2017 while living in Millwater. Now retired in a Red Beach village, they continue to help by delivering Hibiscus Matters around the complex. Diane says delivering “forces us to get out and exercise, and at the same time meet nice people. It makes us happy and proud.”
