Our opinion – A fond farewell

After 17 years with Hibiscus Matters I am off to some new adventures. 

Being editor of a community newspaper has been busy, challenging and rewarding. 

I’ve met a lot of people from all walks of life and told their stories as best I can.

As well as all that feel-good stuff, the paper’s policy has been never to shy away from covering issues that may be difficult or controversial – if it is valuable for readers to know, we have gone in boots and all, always aiming for accuracy, fairness and balance.

Although there are many other publications now around the Coast, I believe that Hibiscus Matters’ point of difference is the work done by experienced journalists on behalf of the community – long may that continue.

Another key role of a community paper is making and extending connections. A good example of how that works is in an email I got recently, following a story we ran in August 12 edition about a new volunteer group called The Pickers. They collect excess produce from home gardens and re-distribute it.

The group’s organiser, Kayleen Martin’s, comments are summarised:

“I want to thank you for the article. I am blown away by the response of donors and those wanting to volunteer. It is so much more than what I first envisioned:

what started as a simple effort to salvage fruit, vegetables, and flowers to give back to the community has grown into something much more profound. For our produce donors, especially the elderly, it has provided a fresh way to engage with society, contribute meaningfully, and connect and chat with new people. 

And for recipients, The Pickers are providing a much-needed source of fresh produce, and now plants. We even had an offer to re-establish a vegetable garden that the donor is no longer able to maintain. These contributions are making a significant difference in our community. Thank you again for giving this cause the kickstart it needed.”

Hibiscus Matters is being left in good hands and will continue its good work – in return, it needs and deserves support from advertisers and the wider community. If you think a community needs a newspaper, then remember that equally, a newspaper needs its community.

I look forward to seeing you around as I start a new chapter, and thank our team and delivery crew, everyone who has supported us with advertising, shared their stories and valued our content.

Mā te wā