The contribution of Mr Small, who has co-ordinated teams of delivery people distributing both The Star and the Otago Daily Times for decades, was celebrated by the company this week.
At a morning tea, Mr Small was thanked for his efforts and presented with a gift voucher.
Fellow long-serving distribution contractor Sue Loan was also invited to attend, but was unable to do so, due to being out of town.
"Distributing The Star has been something I have really enjoyed doing — it really suits me to be out and about, driving around the city," Mr Small said.
"I know just about every street."
The Star delivery staff included a broad cross-section of Dunedin people, including youngsters, older people, and people with disabilities.
"Everyone seems to enjoy delivering the paper, and are adapting well to the new arrangements," he said.
The distribution contractors are stepping back from delivering The Star, as a new agreement between Allied Press Ltd and Reach Media takes effect.
Allied Press operations manager Raja Chakrabati said the decision to outsource the distribution of The Star to Reach Media would allow for greater efficiency and coverage in the paper’s delivery.
"As much as the end goal is better service to our community, we are aware that with any change comes a bit of pain while new systems adapt and settle in," Mr Chakrabati said.
"We request our loyal readers to please bear with us while we transition over.
"We are delighted that 40 of our valued team members have so far been offered employment with Reach Media and will continue to deliver The Star."
"And there will be more to come."
Many of The Star delivery people also deliver the Otago Daily Times.
Although he is stepping back from distributing The Star, Mr Small will continue distributing the Otago Daily Times, and also collecting the honesty boxes around the city.
