Contribution of Mayor and Councillor recognised

During their final council meeting held yesterday, Far North District councillors acknowledged the contribution of two colleagues not standing for re-election next month. 

Councillor David Clendon and Mayor John Carter were presented with certificates of service recognising the contribution each has made to Far North communities. Both will officially step down from their roles on 8 October.

During a brief ceremony held at chambers in the council’s Kaikohe headquarters, Mayor John Carter presented Councillor Clendon with a certificate marking the three years he has represented the Bay of Islands-Whangaroa Ward. Council staff then presented Mayor Carter with a certificate marking his nine years as Mayor of the Far North.

General Manager – Infrastructure & Asset Management Andy Finch said the Mayor was an inspirational leader who had proved to be a determined and often stubborn champion of the district. “That is why the Far North punches well above its weight on the national stage,” he said.

In response, Mayor Carter said that after 55 years in local and central government, he was looking forward to spending more time with his family and improving his golf game. However, he admitted he would miss working alongside staff and elected members and the teamwork that comes with politics. “It has always been about ‘we’. Not about what I think, but what we think,” he said.

Far North residents and ratepayers should have received their voting packs in the mail for the 2022 local body elections. If voting packs have not yet been received, electors should contact Election Services on 0800 922 822.