Waikato District Council has announced the appointment of Craig Hobbs as its new chief executive.
Mr Hobbs (pictured) has decades of experience working in local government and executive roles including as CEO of Paralympics NZ, CEO of the National Maritime Museum, CE of South Waikato District Council, and most recently as a member of the executive leadership team and director of regulatory services at Auckland Council.
He will take over the role from long standing chief executive, Gavin Ion, on 3 February 2025.
Waikato District Mayor, Jacqui Church says there was significant interest in the role from highly qualified senior executives with both national and international experience.
Mr Hobbs was selected due to his local government experience, focus on innovation, operational effectiveness, commitment to positive community outcomes and his dedication to uphold the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, the Mayor said.
“We were impressed with the high calibre of candidates for the role and went through several rounds of interviews. Craig was a clear stand out from the pool of candidates and had the unanimous agreement of the appointments committee which was then endorsed by council in appointing him to the role.”
“Waikato District is undergoing a period of significant growth. Craig brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective for our operations as we continue to evolve our council to be as contemporary and fit for purpose as possible on behalf of our citizens. Council is committed to providing the services, planning, infrastructure and roading outcomes our communities need, within a very challenging economic climate,” she said.
Mr Hobbs says he feels honoured to have been selected to lead Waikato District Council.
“I look forward to supporting a very progressive council and leading the organisation to deliver positive outcomes for the residents and ratepayers of the Waikato District,” he says.
“I am very excited by the opportunities the district presents due to its location, lifestyle and affordability.”
