Local Democracy Reporter, The Gisborne Herald


Are you an outstanding reporter looking for a new challenge in public-interest journalism?

The Gisborne Herald, with the support of RNZ and NZ On Air, is hiring a journalist to join the Local Democracy Reporting (LDR) service and report on the Tairāwhiti region.

You will be covering local authorities’ decisions and other civic matters, as well as going out and talking to the people affected, sharing their stories, and uncovering other stories of your own.

You will report to the Gisborne Herald’s editor but will receive extra training, mentoring and support from RNZ.

Journalists at any stage of their careers will be considered for this role – it could be at junior, senior or intermediate level. You might have a print background, or you might be coming from TV or radio.

We are looking for someone with as many of the following qualities as possible. You don’t need all of these to apply, but you will need to have at least a year’s experience in daily news journalism.

  • Able to meet the highest standards of accuracy, fairness and balance
  • Able to spot a strong story and make it come alive for your readers
  • Photography and/or videography skills (or the willingness to learn)
  • Understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi / the Treaty of Waitangi 
  • Knowledge of local government processes
  • Knowledge of te ao Māori and/or te reo Māori

This is a full-time role. For someone moving to Gisborne there will be assistance with relocation costs. 

Local Democracy Reporting is a free public-interest news service developed to keep local communities informed and connected and hold local authorities to account. There are 15 LDR reporters in newsrooms around the country and their stories are shared with a wide range of media partners nationwide. Funding for the LDR service is confirmed through until the end of 2024 at this stage but irrespective of that, this role will be a permanent full-time position in The Gisborne Herald newsroom.

Applications for this LDR role close Monday, December 11 at 5pm. Your CV, cover letter, work samples etc should be sent to editor@gisborneherald.co.nz

Visit RNZ’s website for more information about the LDR service: www.rnz.co.nz/news/ldr

Permanent Full Time

Job no: 819

Location: Gisborne

Closing Date: Monday, 11 December 2023