A fresh new look, easy navigation, increased functionality and community interaction are the key elements of the relaunch of bayofplentytimes.co.nz, scheduled to take place on Monday afternoon.
The new website will offer ways for people to contribute and share with their community, exchange goods and services, and access essential regional information such as local news, events, business information and classifieds. T
he design and new features of the new bayofplentytimes.co.nz have been developed after extensive user and advertiser research.
<inline type="recurring-inline" id="1003" align="outside" enforce-sites="no" />Hyper-local news and information will continue to be integral to the site. News from nearby regions such as Rotorua and Hamilton and national stories will also feature to provide locals with an additional perspective on issues.
"Our current focus on bringing the best local news coverage online remains, but I'm most excited about the fact that the new site offers a platform for readers to connect with us as well as with each other," said Martine Rolls, online editor for the Bay of Plenty Times.
"Reader feedback and participation have been given a more prominent space on the new website. We are aiming for bayofplentytimes.co.nz to become the hub of the local community. People are invited to give their feedback and share their stories. It's a place where people can go and connect."
Scott Inglis, editor of the Bay of Plenty Times and bayofplentytimes.co.nz, said the website was the local media leader for online audience.
"The website reflects changing reader and community expectations - people want their news and information when they want, wherever they are and in the format they want. The new website and mobile site, combined with our print edition, aim to help meet that demand."
