349. How a small town newspaper THRIVES. Their success formula is simple, but effective.

Hanmer Springs (population 1140) has had a local news service since 1930. THE PINKIE has survived The Great Depression, WWII, Covid, Facebook and The Press.

Richard Tapper was editor, administrator, advertisement maker and a “fiercely loyal local voice” for the people in his town. Hanmer Springs is 133km north of Christchurch. It features 20 separate thermal fresh water swimming pools, water slides, eateries and world class accommodation. Its many attractions make it a popular place for Christchurch people to escape to. Hanmer Springs is a popular destination for international tourists.

The top half of South Island is well served by THE PRESS newspaper (circ 37,000). But The Pinkie (it’s called that because the first editions in 1930 were printed on pink paper using a hand-cranked Gestetner.

Richard Tapper returned to his home town after a peripatetic life visiting 108 countries where he worked as a chef, restaurant owner, cookbook author, fisherman, quizmaster, adman, war zone correspondent and husband to multiple wives.

He was editor for the past 17 years, building the single page Pinkie into a 20 page full colour weekly magazine. Tapper wrote the featured front page story each week, and provided the editorial about whatever topic interested him. He also prepared the weekly quiz and seasonal recipes.

Local businesses provide financial support with their advertising. An e-version is available: www.thepinkie.co.nz

“Our policy is to provide free NOTICES space for local clubs, societies, school events etc. We provide a fiercely local voice for our community.”

At age 76 Richard Tapper knew his health was failing fast. He passed control of The Pinkie to its next editor: Reece Gardner. After his friends visited him in hospital for the last time he said, “I read the story of my retirement in The Press. I’ve finally been recognised. Please draw the curtains. I shall go on my way.”

Family and friends will celebrate his full life with a joyous wake at Hanmer Springs Golf Club on 31 May 2024. R.I.P.

Report #349.

My reports on other topics are here > BrianMorris.Substack.com

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