I am thrilled, honoured and somewhat surprised to have been re-elected unopposed as mayor of this great place.

It has been an absolute privilege to have led the council and the community over the last six years and I am looking forward to the challenges, of which there are many, that lie ahead.

I congratulate those candidates who have put their names forward for roles on council and community boards and wish all of them well in the upcoming elections. 

I urge everyone in Central Otago to take an interest in the elections and to make sure they cast their vote.  

Local government will be working its way through the biggest change in the last 30+ years during the next three-year term and we need the leaders around our tables to make sure that Central Otago comes through these in the best shape it can, now and into the future.