Tauranga City Council has announced the appointment of Dame Kerry Prendergast as the Independent Chair of its Audit and Risk Committee for the 2026–2028 period.
Tauranga Mayor, Mahé Drysdale said it was fantastic to have someone of Dame Kerry’s calibre and experience appointed to such a strategic governance role.
“Her extensive governance background and independent perspective will help ensure robust discussion and sound decision-making for the benefit of our city. An independent chair creates an environment which encourages consideration of a wide range of ideas and risk management possibilities,” he said.
“It also helps the community understand the background and accountability for Council decisions.”
Dame Kerry (pictured) said she was delighted to take on the role and contribute to Tauranga’s future.
“Good governance is about creating trust and clarity and I look forward to working with the Committee to ensure robust processes are in place to support the city’s growth and wellbeing,” she said.
Dame Kerry served as Mayor of Wellington from 2001–2010 and is a former Vice-President of Local Government New Zealand. She holds an MBA from Victoria University of Wellington and is a distinguished alumna of the university.
Her governance portfolio includes chairing Wellington Free Ambulance, Wellington Opera, the Royal New Zealand Ballet, the Tourism Industry Association and Capital Kiwi. She is also a Director of Oceania Healthcare and FishServe, and a Trustee of the Wellington International Arts Foundation and the New Zealand Community Trust.
In recognition of her services to governance and the community, Dame Kerry was made a Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (DNZM) in 2019, following her appointment as a Companion (CNZM) in 2011 for services to local government. She also received a Lifetime Excellence Award for Outstanding Contribution to Local Government in 2016.
Dame Kerry accepts role with Tauranga City Council
