Bossed from afar, staff say

Classics Books & Games in Whangarei has been micromanaged by Wellington-based Deborah Ryder leading up to its liquidation, staff say.

The Northern Advocate reported this week Ms Ryder had been working in Wellington, and the shop was being run by managers at the time of liquidation.

Local staff told the Advocate they wanted people to know Ms Ryder was micromanaging the business from Wellington, and that key business decisions were made by her.

Staff member Sue Herewini and Allen Westphal have been working for Classics since the liquidator was appointed.

"We'd like it known publicly that Ms Ryder has been in charge of the business even though she has been based in Wellington.

"We have been micromanaged the whole time.

"We will be looking for work after this, and we want people to know that the decision-making processes behind the business have been made by Ms Ryder."

Mr Westphal had been appointed manager, but in name only, they said.

Both staff will be looking for work in Whangarei.