Chatham Islands Council has confirmed the election of Greg Horler as the Islands’ new Mayor, with Mr Horler recording 212 votes to former Mayor, Monique Croon’s 95 votes after final counting.
“We warmly congratulate Greg Horler, elected Mayor of the Chatham Islands. He succeeds Monique Croon, who has served our community with passion, perseverance, and aroha for more than two decades – including six years as Mayor,” said Council CEO, Paul Eagle.
“On behalf of everyone, we extend heartfelt thanks to Monique for her tireless leadership through challenging times and her unwavering dedication to the Islands and our people.”
As the new Council prepares to be sworn in, Mr Eagle said there was a strong sense of optimism about the opportunities ahead – “balanced with realism about the challenges.
“The next three years will focus on getting up to basics: strengthening the delivery of core services such as roads, water, and waste, while planning carefully for future growth,” he said.
“A continuing challenge is securing enduring funding to deliver the services expected of a unitary authority. Only around $725,000 is raised locally through rates and fees, while about 95% ($8.55 million) of the Council’s income comes from the Crown. That support is essential but conditional – meaning every dollar must deliver value.”
A key milestone in the Council’s new chapter will be the Chatham Islands Stakeholders Forum, to be held in Wellington on 11–12 November.
Hosted by the Council, the Forum will bring together Ministers, agencies, iwi and imi, and community leaders to align priorities and strengthen partnerships for the Islands’ future. Minister Shane Jones will officially open the event and cut the cake to mark 100 years of local democracy on the Chatham Islands.
The newly elected Councillors are Nathaniel Whaitiri, Graeme Hoare, Jacqui Southcombe, Keri Lea Day, Bridget Gibb, Celine Gregory-Hunt, Pita Thomas and Jenna Hoverd.
