Media Releases

Councils elect President and Vice-President of Local Government New Zealand

Basil Morrison has been re-elected President and Kerry Prendergast, Mayor of Wellington, has been elected Vice-President of Local Government New Zealand following an election by member councils at its Annual General Meeting in Christchurch today.

The elections for President and Vice-President of the organisation take place every three years following the triennial local government elections.  President Basil Morrison was re-elected for a second term after his nomination for President was uncontested.  Kerry Prendergast won her election after standing against Dianne Hale, Deputy Mayor of North Shore City Council, in the election for Vice-President.

"I am delighted to be re-elected as President and I welcome Kerry to the presidential team.  I have enjoyed working with her on Local Government New Zealand's National Council and I look forward to working closely with her as Vice-President," said Mr Morrison.

Mr Morrison says the Vice-President of the organisation, elected from Local Government New Zealand's National Council, has an important role to play in maintaining strong relationships with both the local government sector and Government.  They also play a pivotal role in the governance and effectiveness of Local Government New Zealand.

Former Vice-President Hon Margaret Shields stepped down from the organisation's National Council earlier in the year.

"Margaret did some fantastic work for the sector as our Vice-President, I know that Kerry will continue this work with as much passion and enthusiasm for the job as Margaret had."

Ends

Local Government New Zealand is the national voice of all 86 councils of New Zealand.

For more information contact:

Meredith Barker 

Mobile: 029 924 1205

Email: meredith.barker@lgnz.co.nz

27 July 2005