The Central App boosts community connection (sponsored)
02 September 2024, 4:45 PM
The Central App continues to thrive, with rising user engagement and new features helping keep the community connected and informed.
It has become a ‘go-to platform’ for many people across the district and beyond, with a reach of 80 per cent of the Central Otago adult population, serving both residents and visitors.
Owner manager Vicki McLean said aside from the growing reach, it also has more than 500,000 app and website visits each month, illustrating just how valuable the service has become with our regulars using the app daily for news and information.
“Whether it’s finding out what’s happening around town or looking up local businesses, the app has become a trusted source of information. I couldn't be more proud of what the team has acheived.”
She said the team behind The Central App do not just report on the community—they’re part of it.
“With all members living and working in Central Otago, they bring a local perspective that helps ensure the content is relevant and meaningful. Their deep ties to the area mean they know what matters to the community, and that’s reflected in what you see on the app.”
Team members from left to right: Anna Robb (Reporter) Alexia Anderson (Editor) Vicki McLean (Owner) Caitlyn Thomson (Client support) Sarah Calder (Admin) Aimee Wilson (Reporter) missing Sierra Connell (Marketing) PHOTO: The Central App
Vicki said The Central App’s reach continues to grow beyond just your phone screen.
Last month, Google analytics showed 21,265 people used the app over 87,000 times viewing over 570,000 pages.
“It’s insane, as a remote working team we hear people say they use the app but its the figures that show us it's working for our community. Our focus has always been to provide relevant and timely news and information that is relevant for our locals. We also received over 16,000 views on our social media last month, and our newsletter now has more than 300 subscribers. Our podcast, 'The Outlet’, has seen 4062 downloads since its release. It's all part of an effort to reach users wherever they are and keep the community conversation going.”
If you’d like to check out or join the community conversation…
In addition to its many features, this month The Central App launched a Community Notice Board, accessible through the news section. (See the Tab at the top)
The new feature provides a space for all locals to share announcements, garage sales, lost pets, flatmates wanted - anything a typical community notice board offers.
“It’s a small addition that’s already making a big difference in how the community stays informed. We are trying to keep everything free for our readers and want to remind readers to support those who support us - that's why we have ads saying, ‘because of me, your news is free’ with the local business enabling you to receive free content and news."
To visit the page, click here.
Vicki said as digital tools become more integral to daily life, The Central App continues to evolve, adding features that reflect the needs of its users.
One of the newest events on The Central App calendar is an AI seminar, allowing clients to gain a better understanding of the concept and its features, ultimately supporting them and their business into the future.
A few tickets are still available to the event taking place on August 20 at Monte Christo. Contact Us if you'd like more information.
“With its strong local presence and a team that’s truly part of the community, the app looks set to remain a key player in keeping Central Otago connected.
“We want to take a moment to thank everyone who has made The Central App what it is today—our readers, local businesses, and community members. Your support and engagement have been invaluable.
“As we continue to grow, we’d love to hear from you. How can we improve? What features would make the app even better for you? Your feedback is crucial in helping us serve Central Otago even more effectively. Please feel free to share your thoughts and ideas with us.”
Click here to help us keep improving our app so it delivers what you need. Please take a couple of minutes to complete our survey.
