I arranged for a meeting with Brian and Claire Rogers, directors of The Weekend Sun recently.
Their family orientated approach to their business was appreciated. I had asked for 10 minutes to put a case forward to The Weekend Sun to extend their political and business coverage to the wider Western Bay of Plenty District Council, which up until now has been dominated by urban issues.
Their approach to my request was welcomed, discussed and a decision was made in 10 minutes. We had a candidates meeting in Katikati and I was greeted by The Weekend Sun's new reporter Merle Foster, who has been appointed to report on current rural and economic agendas affecting the new three Western Bay of Plenty District wards.
Our rural sector now has a wider political representation. We have had excellent coverage from female journalists like Leslie Board, Rosalie Smith and currently Elaine Fisher and we must recognise and encourage Merle Foster in her task to open up council business and activities to their readers.

George Van Dyke, Katikati.