Popular Australian site Australian Gamer has merged with New Zealand-based Gameplanet to create the Gameplanet ANZ Network.

According to the press release that arrived at Rocket Chainsaw Towers earlier today, the two sites will reach up to 260000 readers across Australia and New Zealand, and many more through a syndication deal with Fairfax Media.

The Australian Gamer team will take on the editorial roles for the Australian side of the site, with Matt Burgess taking on the role of Editor and Guy Blomberg as a features writer.

Gameplanet Managing Director Simon Garner had the following to say about the merger:

“I’m very excited Australian Gamer has chosen to join our family. Between Matt, Yug and James, we intend to bring Gameplanet New Zealand’s methods, and standards to the Australian market through an editorial team that is already familiar to both Australian readers and the Australian video game industry.”

Guy Blomberg, better known to most as ‘Yug’ of Australian Gamer, had the following to say:

“Merging with Gameplanet presents an exciting opportunity. With our wealth of local knowledge, industry connections, and community experience, there’s no doubt in my mind that we can become the heart of Australian gaming culture.”

We here at Rocket Chainsaw wish the new team all the best in its future endeavours.