Waikato District Council, the local government for Raglan Whāingaroa, advises that Gavin Ion, their CEO for the last 20 years will be stepping down early in 2025. Mayor Jacqui Church said that Gavin Ion had built a strong legacy.
She acknowledged Mr Ion’s outstanding contributions, ““Gavin has been a pillar of strength, providing exceptional leadership for our council and service to the community and region over the last 20 years.”
On LinkedIn, Gavin Ion said, “All good things must come to an end is an old proverb but very true in my case. I complete my term with Waikato District Council next year by mutual agreement. My wife and I are planning to move over the hill to our house at Omokoroa which we are both looking forward to.
Each day is different in the Waikato District CEO role and there is a real sense of satisfaction in going home and knowing you have made a difference in your community. Until I leave in 2025 there are lots of interesting and challenging things for me to complete and I am looking forward to these with relish.”
“I will be staying on at council through to the end of June in order to help the new CEO Craig Hobbs (which I doubt will be needed) but mainly to help council to advance its three waters journey. I am very passionate about delivering a better outcome for the community through three waters reform. Following the recent council decision to consult with the public on the formation of a Joint CCO between Waikato District and Hamilton City councils, my energy will go into the consultation and advancing the development of the CCO with the support of the community.
Mayor Jacqui added, “Your acumen, efforts, effect, love an stewardship for our communities will continue to have many positive outcomes, both with our council & the wider Waikato Region and sector as a whole.”