Chief Executive stepping down

Waikato District Council Chief Executive Craig Hobbs has announced that he will be stepping down at the end of the month.

Having taken up the role 18 months ago, Hobbs arrived with a clear mandate for change; instigated a full review of the operating model and established ways of working, with the goal of bringing the organisation to a stronger and future-ready place.

Under his leadership, milestone achievements include holding rates below 4 percent; maintaining Council’s AA+ credit rating; realising significant and sustainable contract savings; achieving an operating surplus of more than $26 million.

Accomplishments also include standing up IAWAI, New Zealand’s first waters CCO with Hamilton City Council, and with Mayor Aksel, taking the lead in navigating the HeadStart programme of work to a successful proposal.

In addition, the council has achieved 91% of its key performance indicators for 2025-26.

“I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve achieved together.” Hobbs said.

Mayor Aksel commended Hobbs’ commitment to his work, in challenging and complex times with a ‘reform tsunami’ from central government adding more weight to the already demanding role of a Chief Executive.

“Craig has achieved several important milestones, taken great care of our council whaanau and our communities — with that said, on behalf of the council, I have accepted Craig’s resignation and wish him well in his future endeavours.”

ENDS