Marlborough mayor John Leggett to step down, nominates deputy Nadine Taylor

By Maia Hart, LDR reporter

Marlborough mayor John Leggett has confirmed he will not be seeking a third term at the upcoming local election, and has instead nominated deputy mayor Nadine Taylor.

In a statement on Monday, Leggett said he was placing his "full support" behind Taylor and was "delighted" to have nominated her.

"I've thoroughly enjoyed serving my community through my time on council over the past 12 years and strengthening council's engagement with its community," Leggett said.

"My partner Anne has been incredibly supportive and acknowledges the privilege of representing our community alongside me."

Leggett, who served two terms as mayor, said he was proud to have led a cohesive team of councillors with "balanced discussion and open debate in [the] council chambers".

"We have faced a number of challenges over the past six years which have added a layer to council day-to-day business - including the Kaikōura earthquake just after the 2016 election, flood events, closed borders in 2020, and occupation of council reserves by protestors," he said.

"We have responded throughout with clear planning and direction. I am proud to have played my part."

He said central government had a number of reforms under way which directly affect the future of local government, notably Three Waters and resource management.

"We have been actively involved in this process and I will continue to advocate for the best possible outcome for Marlborough," he said.

"The role of mayor is time-intensive, and I'm looking forward to spending more time with Anne and our family. My children are all currently living in the northern hemisphere, and we are looking forward to visiting them."

But Leggett said his work was not done yet, and he would continue to devote his energy to serving the region for the remainder of this term.

"My announcement is easier in the knowledge that Nadine is standing for the mayoralty," he said.

"She has excelled as deputy mayor and as chair of the assets and services committee - both exceptionally demanding roles - and I have complete faith in her ability to lead Marlborough as the region's next mayor."

Taylor said she was delighted to announce her campaign.

"As our community continues to recover from the economic and social impacts of Covid-19, and now faces higher costs of living and continued impacts of climate change, it's more important than ever to have consistent, considered and experienced leadership to help progress the region forward," she said.

She said her "experience" as deputy mayor and chairperson of the assets and services committee had been exceptionally rewarding, and she had enjoyed working alongside mayor Leggett in leading a cohesive team of councillors over this past term.

"I'm excited at the opportunity to champion our region as its next mayor with pride, positivity and vision, continuing to lead our region as it evolves into the future," she said.

"With current projects including the Picton ferry precinct, major schools rebuild, new Blenheim library and gallery, and important environmental catchment care and repair work, we have some immensely positive developments to look forward to."

She said there were some "big issues" in the region that need addressing.

"Revitalising the Blenheim and Picton CBDs, stepping up our regional response to climate change, strengthening the resilience of our core industries and social infrastructure, and protecting Marlborough's interests in the face of Central Government reforms, are but a few," she said.

"As mayor I will work hard for Marlborough. With my proven governance and leadership experience I look forward to leading a team of councillors who will tackle the issues and take the opportunities, prioritising Marlborough's environmental, social, and economic future success."

Local Democracy Reporting is Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air