‘Star’ plans revamp from ‘Sun’ offices

Press, 12 July 1988, Page 4

‘Star’ plans revamp from ‘Sun’ offices

PA Auckland The "Auckland Star” is to move into the vacant “Sun” building in New North Road and switch to new technology by Christmas in a bid to strengthen its position, the managing director of Independent Newspapers, Ltd, new owner of the “Star,” Mr Mike Robson said yesterday.

Mr Robson said changes would be introduced and editorial input strengthened to enable the paper to tackle the “New Zealand Herald” “head on.” He said some of the 250 “Sun” staff who lost their jobs when New Zealand News closed the paper last Friday were likely to be offered positions on

the revamped "Star.” However, it was up to the editor of the “Star” how many were taken on.

He said that with more resources and greater staff effort, there was no reason for the “Star” not to become “the best paper in Auckland.”

“We have great faith in the paper and its 100-year history is something we value,” Mr Robson said. Editorial independence of the paper was assured.

However, I.N.L. was unlikely to take over a costly Commonwealth Games sponsorship deal involving the “Star” and the “Sun.” He said that package was now New Zealand News’ responsibility.

“It is a colossal obligation and we would be reluctant to pick up the tab,” he said. Award conditions would continue for “Star” staff and those involved in superannuation schemes would have their funds protected, said Mr Robson.

A decision on the timing of the move into the “Sun” building would be made next month. Mr Robson said that the decision to shut the “Sun” was made by Brierleyowned New Zealand News group and not I.N.L. “It was Brierley’s decision, not ours,” he said.

Mr Robson said there were ho immediate plans to turn the paper into a tabloid.