When it came to celebrating the Herald's 150th birthday, we wanted innovative ideas that showcased this country's remarkable spirit - and the incredible stories of everyday Kiwis.
Whether it was the three-week road trip to uncover New Zealand's Greatest Stories, the 108-page magazine that highlighted the Greatest New Zealanders of the last 150 years; or our big prize giveaways, we were determined to put our readers at the forefront of the celebrations.
Today's edition of the Herald is another milestone as we celebrate the anniversary year - the first paper overseen by a special guest.
As we considered who should be a guest editor, Sir John Kirwan was top of our minds.
He epitomises so many wonderful characteristics - the butcher's apprentice who played 63 test for the All Blacks, including the 1987 World Cup-winning final. (Many still consider JK our greatest winger.)
The coach who took his talents overseas to lead Italy and Japan before returning home to lead the Blues in his beloved home town Auckland. The man who fought adversity off the field and is using that experience to help so many others. He is also a fashionista, a visionary, a father and family man - and today, our editor.
- Shayne Currie, water boy
The guest editor is drilling the sports editor... #kirwansherald pic.twitter.com/JdpyuAhbSk
The special and superb artwork that wraps Sir JK's NZ Herald tomorrow. @BluesRugbyTeam @nzherald pic.twitter.com/f36guW96yD
Some of the items commissioned by John Kirwan:
Cost of home dream in Auckland - 19 incomes
JAFArtist inspiring Auckland
Saving lives worth singing about
Let's face it - he's Blues to the core
Special report: Southsiders' talent making waves in the wider world
Special report: Why we're counting the high cost of living
Far better lifestyle than London, with much cheaper childcare
Depression website helps to banish the blues
The faces of Auckland
Home loan queries dive
Loan curbs drive first-time buyers into arms of mortgage brokers
Cricket: Windies' star fades as islanders lose passion for cricket
Rugby: Honeymoon is over - now for playoffs - Kirwan
Famous sporting families: Passion for sports runs in the blood for many
Twelve Questions: Kevin Mealamu
JK has just converted four Crusaders to the Blues - thanks to Photoshop. He's out of control!