NZ Post to introduce local information service
New Zealand Post has launched a new local information service designed to bring Auckland communities and business providers closer together. Former Kiwibank CEO Sam Knowles says the new service – called Localist – promises to take a fresh look at the way communities share information.
“Despite its size, Auckland City is comprised of unique suburbs with individual identities. Localist will empower localities so that people, organisations and communities can share knowledge and information using a range of online and offline media.
“It’s designed to take the best that traditional directories have to offer, along with the power of social media, and create something new,” Knowles said.
Knowles, now chairman of Localist, said that Aucklanders have voiced a need for better information services at a local level. Small businesses find it hard to make sense of digital and social media, and pay too much for basic advertising services, he added.
“Localist will help businesses succeed by giving them a better way to advertise and find customers locally.
“It’s simply not true that current online search engines and directories have it all covered when it comes to finding truly local information. The content has to exist before it can be found.”
Knowles said that New Zealand Post has responded to a demand for more relevant, current content about activities and events, businesses and organisations. It is part of the plan New Zealand Post has been working on to extend its communications expertise into new media.
“Localist, like New Zealand Post, is a truly Kiwi company. We successfully challenged the banking world with Kiwibank, now we’re ready to fill the need in the local information space,” he said.
Localist will launch next year.
