Microsoft Signs On As Qantas Media Awards Sponsor

Microsoft New Zealand has become the latest sponsor of the Qantas Media Awards, supporting the award for excellence in Information Technology and Telecommunications journalism.

Microsoft New Zealand's Communications Manager, Carol Leishman, said New Zealand had a number of good technology journalists whose effort to understand the specialist content of their beat should be appropriately recognised by the industry.

"Technology reporting is increasingly important since both telecommunications and information technology are now such an intrinsic part of business operations in New Zealand," said Leishman. "Having an award for Excellence in Information Technology and Telecommunications journalism helps ensure that high standards for more investigative reporting are maintained."

"While we might not always agree with what is being written, it is important for Microsoft as a software industry leader to encourage quality and balanced technology stories that have been properly researched and are accurate and fair."

"By becoming part of the long-established Qantas Media Awards we can recognise objectively the best work being produced in print and on radio and television," Leishman added.

Director of the Qantas Media Awards, Barry Young, said Microsoft were a welcome addition to the sponsorship team. "They have an enlightened philosophy in their approach to relationships with the media. As a sponsor of the awards, Microsoft will help promote excellence in what is a significant journalistic specialisation."

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For further information contact Barry Young, Qantas Media Awards, Ph. 9 523 1753, Fax: 9 524 4536, Email: barry.carolyn@xtra.co.nz

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