New mayor appoints same deputy

The new Taupō District Council; left to right, Deputy Mayor Kevin Taylor, Cr Christine Rankin, Cr Nicola de Lautour, Cr Hope Woodward, Cr Rachel Shepherd, Mayor John Funnell, Cr Wahine Murch, Cr Sandra Greenslade, Cr Yvonne Westerman, Cr Kylie Leonard, Cr Ngāhuia Foreman, Cr Steve Manunui and Cr Duncan Campbell.

New Mayor John Funnell has asked former deputy and rival mayoral candidate Kevin Taylor to stay on in the role.

In addition to a new mayor, five new councillors and seven returning ones all attended the swearing-in ceremony and inaugural Council meeting at the Taupō District Council’s chambers today, Friday October 31.

Earlier, the new council was greeted with a welcome and waiata from council staff. Once the new Taupō District Mayor John Funnell and the councillors had made their declarations, one of the first items on the agenda was for Mr Funnell to appoint Kevin Taylor as the deputy mayor.

Cr Taylor has already served one term as deputy mayor, under former Taupō District Mayor David Trewavas.

Funnell says he looked for a deputy mayor who would share his commitment to a hands-on leadership style and who brought strong relationships locally and regionally.

“Reliability, delivery orientation and a shared work ethic are critical. I need someone who is available, engaged and committed to achieving results.

“Kevin brings strong local government experience, a collaborative approach and a deep understanding of our community. I know Kevin will be a key partner as we navigate challenges, build relationships and deliver on our commitments.”

Cr Taylor says he is humbled to be reappointed to the role.

“I am honoured to be considered for the role of deputy mayor by our new Taupō District Mayor,” Cr Taylor said. “It is my intention to serve the district in support of the Mayor for the benefit of us all.”

Mr Funnell also welcomed the new council, saying he looked forward to working with them all to build a team that reflected the aspirations of the community.

“Together we all have the opportunity to shape a Council that is strategic, inclusive and focused on delivery.”

The new Taupō District Council for this triennium comprises: Mayor John Funnell, Deputy Mayor Kevin Taylor, and Taupō ward councillors Duncan Campbell, Nicola de Lautour, Steve Manunui, Christine Rankin, Rachel Shepherd and Yvonne Westerman. The Te Papamārearea Māori ward is represented by Ngāhuia Foreman and Wahine Murch, the Mangakino-Pouakani ward by Hope Woodward, Taupō East Rural ward by Kylie Leonard and Tūrangi-Tongariro by Sandra Greenslade.