Frequently Asked Questions
General
What makes Living Hawke’s Bay different?
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100 percent locally focused content
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High quality print and beautiful design
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Trusted by readers and businesses across Hawke’s Bay
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Showcases stories you will not find anywhere else
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A meaningful way for local businesses to connect with the community
What are your distribution numbers or estimated readership?
Our magazine is available in over 100 stores across New Zealand, with two thirds located in Hawke’s Bay. Based on our latest survey, our estimated readership is around 40,000 per issue. This is calculated from our print run multiplied by the average reads per copy.
For Advertisers
What types of businesses typically advertise in the magazine?
We work with a wide range of local businesses. Each season is unique, but our advertisers usually align well with our core audience — primarily women aged 35 and over living in Hawke’s Bay.
What advertising options do you offer?
We offer a variety of print placements including:
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Double page spreads
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Full pages
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Half pages
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Third pages
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Quarter pages
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Premium placements such as the back cover and inside covers
We also offer digital advertising options on our website including sidebar and in article placements.
Can I buy a story?
To maintain editorial authenticity, our stories are by invitation only and are not available for purchase. However, we welcome story suggestions and if your business aligns with our editorial direction, we may offer content bundles that include both editorial and advertising.
Why do you offer content bundles?
As a small, locally owned business, advertising is our primary source of funding. Content bundles help support the cost of printing while offering readers a full experience — from reading a story to discovering where to engage with the featured business.
How far in advance do I need to book an ad?
We accept ad bookings from the start of each quarter. Final artwork is due one month before each edition is released. Advertisers will be sent key dates and deadlines each quarter.
Do you offer design support or ad creation?
Yes. While advertisers are encouraged to provide ready to print artwork, our in house designer can create your ad for $180 plus GST. We work with you to meet agreed deadlines and ensure your ad suits the magazine’s style.
Can I advertise if I am not based in Hawke’s Bay?
Yes, we are open to all advertising within our policies
Do you have a media kit available?
Yes. A media kit is available here
For Contributors (Writers and Photographers)
Do you accept freelance submissions or pitches from new contributors?
Yes. We are always open to working with new voices.
What kinds of stories or themes are you most interested in?
We focus on uplifting, meaningful, and locally connected stories that fit within our editorial pillars: People, Places, Perceptions, and Pleasures. Stories should never feel advertorial or promotional.
Do contributors need to be based in Hawke’s Bay?
No, but the story must have a clear connection to Hawke’s Bay.
What file formats or specs do you require for images and articles?
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Print ads: PDF
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Digital ads: JPG, PNG, or GIF
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Editorial contributions: High resolution images (JPG) and documents submitted in Word or Google Docs. Final specs provided upon acceptance.
Can I send a complete article rather than a pitch?
Yes, send through what works for you
For Subscribers and General Readers
How do I subscribe to the print or digital edition?
You can subscribe through our website. Visit the subscribe page for options.
Can I gift a subscription to someone else?
Yes. Just tick the gift option during checkout and enter the recipient’s address details.
How long does it take for a new subscription to start?
Subscriptions run for one year and auto renew each cycle. If you do not wish to renew, it is your responsibility to cancel before the renewal date.
Do you ship outside of Hawke’s Bay or internationally?
Yes, we ship across New Zealand. For international orders, please contact us directly so we can provide a shipping quote. Costs are based on your location and will be charged at your expense.
What should I do if my copy doesn’t arrive?
Please contact us and we will organise another delivery right away.
Is there a digital version of the magazine?
Yes. As of 2024, our magazine is available in digital format. Access is included with a digital or combo subscription.