A former NZ Army chief has been selected to lead the Central Otago District Council (CODC) as its new chief executive officer. 

Peter Kelly ONZM (Ngāti Toa Rangatira, Ngāti Koata) is currently chief executive at the Upper Hutt City Council and will commence his role in Central Otago in early September.  Peter has been CEO of Upper Hutt for five years and prior to that was a Major General and Chief of the New Zealand Army. 

Mayor Tim Cadogan said that councillors were impressed with Peter’s knowledge and experience and felt this coupled with his proven leadership and affable nature made him the right fit to lead the council in such unpredictable times. 

 Peter said he was “humbled by his selection as the new CEO and is looking forward to working with the mayor, councillors and team down in Central and supporting their kaupapa of enhancing the wellbeing in our community”.   

Louise van der Voort will continue in the role of interim chief executive officer until Peter commences his employment.