Whanganui District Council’s incoming chief executive has been welcomed to his new role this week with a formal mihi whakatau.
David Langford (pictured) was appointed in December after former chief executive, Kym Fell, left to take up a role in Wellington.
“I’m excited to be joining the Whanganui District Council today and appreciated the warm welcome I received,” said Mr Langford.
He was previously with New Plymouth District Council where, as group manager for planning and infrastructure, he was responsible for parks and reserves, development and planning and essential infrastructure.
Mr Langford says his family will now relocate from Taranaki, joining him in Whanganui later this week.
“We are really looking forward to calling Whanganui home and being part of the community here,” he said.
“I recognise that these are trying times for our district as we grapple with the challenges of COVID-19, along with the rising cost of living and housing affordability.
“In my role as chief executive, I will be working hard alongside our elected members to support our community through these challenges.
“This means getting the basics right and delivering value for money while ensuring high quality council services.”
He says it is also important not to lose sight of our long-term future.
“I look forward to helping everyone in our community to unlock opportunities that will improve wellbeing and quality of life.”
A larger pōwhiri to welcome David to the district was postponed due to COVID-19 restrictions.
