Journalist retiring after 45 years fears for reporting's future

Janine Rankin, a veteran journalist with 45 years at the Manawatū Standard in Palmerston North, reflects on her career and expresses concern for the future of local journalism as she retires. Rankin recalls a newsroom filled with camaraderie and the challenges of adapting to technological changes over the decades. She highlights significant stories she covered, including local government issues and health reporting, but worries about the diminishing resources available for in-depth reporting on community matters.

With only three reporters remaining at the newspaper, Rankin fears that the ability to follow complex stories over time will be severely limited. She notes the rise of "news deserts," where local reporting has drastically decreased, and emphasizes the importance of scrutiny in local governance. Dr. Cathy Strong, a media research associate, echoes these concerns, pointing out that the reduction in journalists has led to a lack of transparency in local government, making it difficult for residents to stay informed.

As Rankin prepares for retirement, she reflects on the changing landscape of journalism, including early deadlines and newsroom downsizing, which have made it challenging to deliver timely news. She questions the future of provincial daily newspapers and acknowledges the uncertainty surrounding their sustainability. Her departure marks the end of an era in local journalism, leaving a void in community reporting that may not be easily filled.

A journalist retiring after 45 years of writing for Palmerston North's Manawatu Standard fears for the future of old-style reporting on community issues. Janine Rankin walked into a workplace filled with cigarette smoke, ink and clanking type writers, and on Friday she's leaving an industry completely changed. Jimmy Ellingham reports.