Andrew Bonallack talks about website changes

Today our redesigned website, www.times-age.co.nz, launched, in partnership with the launch of similar revamped websites in our regional papers across New Zealand.

I've said in previous editorials about the need for feedback, and I'd be keen to hear from you as we start loading our stories, our photos - and perhaps even video.

It's a pleasing day for me. I liked our website, and enjoyed the "hits" we were getting, and the engaged comment, but, y'know, I was never a fan of the green trim. The new look is a lot more pleasing on the eye - but again, I'd like your views on that.

I have also said in editorials that there is now an audience wanting faster news. I have seen comments on our website, saying it would be great if you could be informed a bit sooner. This is already a service enjoyed by those who tap into the NZ Herald website, as I do. I also like to 'snack', using my iPad applications, on local TV news, my sister papers, my competition, and international media. To me, it's seems natural to be able to turn on a computer and get instant answers.

Now the Wairarapa Times-Age is coming across desktop, mobile and tablet devices. And rather than the website simply being an electronic version of the daily paper, my news team will have the ability to load breaking news, as it progresses. We've been doing this, to a limited extent, with our Facebook page, and we've seen how much you've engaged with us on this. You'll continue to have the ability to comment and engage with this new website.

What does this mean for our core product, the 30-odd pages that make up your daily paper? Not a thing. And that's because we also hear from subscribers and customers in Wairarapa who regard what's in the paper as real, and the content social media and websites a chatty distraction. The paper is the original. It provides the depth and the analysis that only print is capable of. You don't have to be nervous about dropping it as you pass it from reader to reader.

But we want to do better, and inform you faster, and give you more choices. The new website, which taps into the resources of the NZ Herald and all my sister papers, aims to do that. Keep me informed at Email Andrew Bonallack and let me know what you think.