MEDIA RELEASE

Cr Peter Buckley’s contribution to region praised

28 April 2016

A former two-term chairman of Waikato Regional Council has announced he will not be standing for re-election at this year’s local body elections.

Waikato constituency councillor Peter Buckley – a former Waikato Federated Farmers president and council chairman from 2007 till 2013 - informed his colleagues of his decision at today’s council meeting.

“It’s a sad moment but it’s time to move on to other things after 25 years of public service in roles for the likes of Federated Farmers and the council,” he said.

Cr Buckley said he was considering a number of options for the future.

Besides chairing the council and serving three terms as a councillor, Cr Buckley has represented the council on the Waikato River Authority, the Sea Change project for the Hauraki Gulf, and the Lake Taupo joint committee overseeing measures to protect the lake’s health.

At the instigation of chairperson Paula Southgate, the council passed a vote of thanks to Cr Buckley for his service.

“You’ve been a very positive supporter of the Waikato Regional Council, we thank you for your long service and leadership. Your passion for the Waikato has always been clear,” she said.

Deputy chair Tipa Mahuta, who represents the Maori constituency of Nga Hau e Wha, extended her thanks on behalf of iwi for Cr Buckley’s wide-ranging work, while acting chief executive Chris McLay thanked him on behalf of staff “for all your contributions to council”.

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