Privacy Policy

Last Updated: October 19, 2025

The Wellington Times is committed to protecting your privacy. This policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your personal information.

1. Information We Collect

We collect information in several ways:

1.1 Information You Provide

• Account registration information (name, email address, password)
• Subscription and payment details
• Newsletter signup information
• Comments and user-generated content
• Contact form submissions
• Letters to the editor
• Job applications

1.2 Information Collected Automatically

• Browser type and version
• Operating system
• IP address
• Pages visited and time spent on pages
• Referring website
• Device information
• Cookies and similar tracking technologies

2. How We Use Your Information

We use collected information to:

• Provide and improve our services
• Process subscriptions and payments
• Send newsletters and communications you've requested
• Respond to inquiries and provide customer support
• Analyze site usage and improve user experience
• Prevent fraud and ensure security
• Comply with legal obligations
• Personalize content and advertising

3. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

We use cookies and similar technologies for:

• Essential cookies: Required for site functionality
• Analytics cookies: Help us understand how visitors use our site
• Advertising cookies: Used to deliver relevant advertisements
• Preference cookies: Remember your settings and preferences

You can control cookies through your browser settings. However, disabling cookies may limit some site functionality.

4. Third-Party Services

We work with third-party service providers:

4.1 Google AdSense

We use Google AdSense to display advertisements. Google may use cookies and similar technologies to show ads based on your previous visits to our website and other websites. You can opt out of personalized advertising by visiting Google's Ads Settings.

4.2 Payment Processing (Stripe)

We use Stripe to process subscription payments. Stripe collects payment information according to their own privacy policy. We do not store full credit card information on our servers.

4.3 Analytics

We use analytics services to understand how users interact with our website. These services may collect information about your use of our site and other websites.

5. Data Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell your personal information. We may share information with:

• Service providers who assist in operating our website
• Payment processors for subscription services
• Analytics and advertising partners
• Law enforcement when required by law
• In connection with a business transfer or acquisition

6. Data Security

We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your personal information. However, no internet transmission is completely secure. While we strive to protect your data, we cannot guarantee absolute security.

7. Your Rights

Under New Zealand privacy law, you have the right to:

• Access your personal information
• Request correction of inaccurate information
• Request deletion of your information (subject to legal requirements)
• Opt out of marketing communications
• Object to certain processing of your data
• Request data portability

To exercise these rights, contact us at privacy@wellingtontimes.nz

8. Children's Privacy

Our services are not directed to children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If you believe we have collected information from a child, please contact us immediately.

9. International Data Transfers

Your information may be transferred to and processed in countries other than New Zealand. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place for such transfers.

10. Newsletter and Communications

If you subscribe to our newsletters, we'll send you updates based on your preferences. You can unsubscribe at any time using the link in any email or by contacting us directly.

11. Changes to This Policy

We may update this privacy policy periodically. We'll notify you of significant changes by posting a notice on our website or sending an email to registered users.

12. Contact Us

For questions about this privacy policy or our data practices, contact:

13. Privacy Commissioner

If you have concerns about our privacy practices, you may contact the New Zealand Privacy Commissioner at www.privacy.org.nz