Next week we will go from Covid-19 Alert Level 4 to Level 3 and with that our attention moves to imagining what the landscape may look like on our staged return to the ‘‘new normal’’.
Allied Press made a commitment when we went into lockdown that we would be there for you. The Otago Daily Times has continued to be the eye on your world, informing and entertaining and showcasing the local heroes as we challenge the threat of this invisible killer.
Now we have some more good news to deliver.
Allied Press chief executive Grant McKenzie is delighted to announce most of its stable of community newspapers are back, delivered to our region in accordance with the lockdown guidelines.
We believe this is an important step in the road to recovery — harnessing and celebrating the spirit that defines us.
We will also be there for local businesses with a $3million Support Local advertising package to kick-start the recovery. We are back in business for you. Visit this page on our website for details of this exciting opportunity).
The Level 4 lockdown has offered us a timely reminder of why we live, work and play in this magnificent region of New Zealand. The landscape has certainly changed and no-one can predict with any certainty what the future holds. But what we do know is the lifeblood of this region is our community spirit. It’s a unique and inspiring quality, born out of isolation, frustration and the courage and faith of our founding fathers.
There will be no escaping the fallout from the Covid-19 pandemic. The shadow of debt and uncertainty is chilling for many in our region. Business closures and staff cuts will have a devastating effect on families and communities.
The Otago Daily Times has been serving this community for more than 158 years. We are proud of that achievement, but we could not have done it without you — our loyal readers and advertisers.
We also have a vital role to play in uniting and fostering community spirit. It is a responsibility we take very seriously, and that is why we are launching our Support Local series in the Otago Daily Times, community newspapers, online at www.odt.co.nz and on social media.
It is a rallying call for people throughout the province to stand tall and celebrate our place, our people and our future.
We are in this together.
BARRY STEWART Allied Press editor in chief
