Further expanding its support of local journalism across the Bay of Plenty, New Zealand Media and Entertainment has today announced it has purchased Tauranga local news provider SunMedia’s print and digital assets.

Owned and operated by local couple, Claire Rogers and the late Brian Rogers, SunMedia has operated in Tauranga and the wider Bay of Plenty for 23 years.

NZME will purchase SunMedia’s three print publications: The Weekend Sun, Coast & Country News, and New Farm Dairies, as well as its live local news website - SunLive.

NZME CEO Michael Boggs says NZME is delighted to be adding to its strong stable of local mastheads and digital platforms with the acquisition of Sun Media’s highly-regarded local news and sales operation.

“This purchase demonstrates NZME’s commitment to supporting local journalism, and contributes to NZME’s Publishing strategy, ensuring we operate a high quality, efficient print business that services local communities and advertisers, as well as having a high-performing digital news offering," says Michael.

“SunMedia has a proud local history, with a dedicated newsroom, sales team and local delivery network that have been ably run for two decades by Claire and her husband Brian, who sadly passed away in 2022.

"We are pleased to be able to continue to invest in its future, supporting local journalism, as well as its sales and delivery capabilities in the region.

“NZME is proud to reach around 258,000 people* across Bay of Plenty through our many radio, publishing and digital platforms.

"SunMedia’s platforms will further complement our extensive offering of local news content and entertainment across the region, as well as providing further opportunities for local advertisers. With NZME’s infrastructure, support systems and processes, I believe this will ensure SunMedia’s print and digital platforms remain successful well into the future,” says Michael.

Claire Rogers says running SunMedia has not been the same without Brian by her side.

“While this decision is not an easy one, it is the right move to ensure Tauranga continues to have the best local news platforms heading into the future," says Claire.

"I would like to thank the community, our loyal advertisers and readers, but mostly the incredible SunMedia team who have worked tirelessly to tell community stories and bring you breaking news 24/7."

NZME and SunMedia expect to complete the sale and purchase transaction by March 28, 2024.