Wellington City Council will welcome experienced local government practitioner Lindsay McKenzie as a Crown Observer to help address ongoing financial and governance issues, Local Government Minister Simeon Brown announced today.
Brown explained the council’s current struggles in balancing debt and insurance obligations while continuing to deliver essential services to Wellington residents.
“The decision to appoint a Crown Observer was not one that I took lightly,” he said. “However, my assessment is that the financial and behavioural challenges facing the Council represent a significant problem as set out in Part 10 of the Local Government Act 2002.”
McKenzie, who begins his term on November 13, will work with Wellington City Council to tackle these challenges and ensure progress is closely monitored. His appointment is scheduled to conclude on July 31, 2025, or sooner if deemed appropriate.
Bringing extensive experience from previous leadership roles, including his time as Chief Executive Officer for the Tasman and Gisborne District Councils, McKenzie is recognised for his governance skills. His recent role as an independent member of the Nelson City Council’s Audit, Risk, and Finance Committee further highlights his financial acumen, a critical asset for Wellington’s current needs.
Brown said McKenzie’s role will involve supporting the council in developing a feasible Long-Term Plan to serve Wellington’s residents and stakeholders effectively.
Image credit: Aless Con
