25/05/2025
Kia ora koutou,
We’re writing to let you know that Aotea Advocate will be wrapping up operations. After a year of sharing local stories and supporting community connection on Aotea, we’ve made the difficult decision to close the Advocate.
As many of you will know, the Barrier Bulletin is now under new ownership and editorship. Vanessa Langford has taken the reins and brings a strong focus on local voices, community stories, and island news. With her at the helm, we’re confident the Bulletin will continue to thrive as a vital space for all things Aotea.
Over the past few months, we explored the possibility of someone taking over the Advocate to keep it going in some form, but unfortunately, that didn’t come together.
While it's sad to say goodbye, we're proud of what was built and we couldn’t have done it without your support.
To our readers, advertisers, contributors, and cheerleaders: thank you. Your support, energy, and aroha made the Advocate what it was - something special. Whether you submitted a story, placed an ad, shared an idea, or simply read along each issue, you helped create something meaningful for this community.
We encourage you to now channel that same support toward Vanessa and the Barrier Bulletin. Please send your news, stories, events, and advertising to her directly for inclusion in future issues. ([email protected])
A vibrant local news source only works when the community is behind it, and we know the Bulletin will benefit from your ongoing involvement.
Ngā mihi nui,
Bree & Lucy
