Lance Girling-Butcher -

Editor-in-Residence

There’s just no keeping Lance Girling-Butcher out of journalism.

The former editor of the Taranaki Daily News holds an honorary position as Editor-in-Residence at the Witt School of Journalism.

“Journalism has been my lifetime passion and during my career I have taken huge pleasure in sharing this passion with young and up-and-coming journalists,” says the New Plymouth District councillor, who left the Daily News in 2006 due to failing eyesight

Girling-Butcher mentors J-School students, helps to strengthen industry ties as well as offering guidance in specialist areas such as media law and ethics.

The 67-year-old worked in journalism for more than 40 years – mostly in Taranaki – and was also the last editor of the Taranaki Herald, the province’s evening paper which closed in 1989.

“While I have lost my sight I have developed techniques using technology for writing and editing which will make it possible for me to comment on the students' work."

Girling-Butcher has had a close association with the Witt course since its inception, is a former chairman of its industry council and continues serve on it in a lesser role.

“I believe so strongly in the course that two of my children have done it and have gained enormously from the experience.

Back to top. Top of article.