Newly-appointed Taupō District Council chief executive, Julie Gardyne says she’s excited about taking the district forward in her new role.
On Saturday, Mayor, David Trewavas announced that Mrs Gardyne, who has held the position of deputy chief executive since 2021, would be appointed to the top job following an externally-run recruitment process.
She replaces former chief executive, Gareth Green, who departed in March to take up the role of chief executive at New Plymouth District Council. Since then, Mrs Gardyne has been acting chief executive.
Mayor Trewavas congratulated Mrs Gardyne on her appointment, saying she brought extensive local government experience, a strategic focus and a reputation as “someone who got things done”.
He said there had been a lot of interest in the job and moving through the recruitment process meant some tough decisions for the appointment panel.
“In a high-calibre field, Julie really stood out as someone with the experience, skills and attitude to lead our council,” Mayor Trewavas said.
“Taupō District faces some real challenges at present, with the district growing quickly and the associated pressures this brings, and we’re confident Julie will help guide us through these.”
Mrs Gardyne said she was looking forward to leading council’s team and supporting their work of caring for the district.
“Every single person who works here does important mahi every day that contributes to making the Taupō District a great place to live,” she said.
“From the parks and reserves staff who keep our green spaces looking good, to the water teams who ensure we have safe drinking water and efficient sanitation, to the teams who look after our building and resource consents, there are many different ways that their work touches every resident’s life every day.
“It’s going to be a privilege to work with them as we navigate the opportunities that lie ahead. The number of demands on council is growing and we are also working to understand the impacts of a range of reforms, climate change and environmental challenges.”
Mrs Gardyne has a particular interest in economic development and has worked across a variety of private sector and local government roles. Her local government experience includes 18 years at Whakatāne District Council where she was most recently the general manager of strategy and transformation. She has also worked in worked in policy and managed a range of council facilities, including Whakatāne Airport. Mrs Gardyne also led the recovery from the Edgecumbe floods and the economic recovery from the White Island/Whakaari disaster.
