Today marks end of era for Chronicle

There is always an element of poignancy when something that is part of your routine goes through a significant change.

That is most certainly the case for us at the Wanganui Chronicle as we spent the day yesterday putting together what will be the last broadsheet edition of the weekday paper. What you are reading today is the last time the Chronicle will be produced in this broadsheet format from Monday to Friday. On Monday we launch our new-look compact format newspaper.

The transition has been some time in the organising and preparation. It is not something we undertake lightly; rather it is done to ensure this paper has a dynamic future as the leading source of news and information servicing the Wanganui area.

The proud record established over the past 155 years is testament to the hard work of those who have served the masthead in the past and our aim in embarking on this new path is to ensure your paper remains a vibrant, vital part of your day. To date the Wanganui Chronicle has forged an enviable record of serving its community, as evidenced in the excellent circulation results, strong financial performance and the many industry awards won by staff across all departments.

Yesterday was both a time of sadness for the end of a much-loved product, but also a time of excitement as we refined plans to launch our new look. We have been working hard to ensure our new compact format remains relevant and best meets your expectations of your daily newspaper.

If there is one thing that is constant in life, it is change - and newspapers are certainly not immune to that.

Take the many changes the paper has gone through in its 155 years. When it first started there were ads across the front page.

There have been countless staff who have relied on the paper for employment, and it has provided a vital link to the public for the local business community. For the readers, it has been there, a constant and consistent provider of news and views, sport, puzzles and even horoscopes.

So what can you expect, come Monday? Well, more of the same, only packaged a bit differently and with some additional features and improvements to the content.

But don't think the changes will end there.

We will continue to refine our product to meet your needs, so as we enter this new era of publishing, please feel free to offer your feedback on the changes and anything you want to see in your local daily newspaper.

Feedback: editor@wanganuichronicle.co.nz