Council boss role made permanent
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
Jeff Millward is ‘‘pretty rapt’’ to make the chief executive role permanent.
Millward has been the Waimakariri District Council’s acting chief executive for the past 10 months and has been confirmed as the new boss.
‘‘The last 10 months have given me a really good insight into the role,’’ he said.
‘‘I’ve acted in the past, so I put my hand up this time and went for it.’’
He said the last 10 months had been a challenging time with Covid, high inflation and staff recruitment challenges.
Millward now has one major appointment to make - finding a new finance and business support manager, a role he has filled for 14 years.
He has been with the council for 38 years.
‘‘It is really good to represent the community and the council I have worked for, for the last 38 years.’’
Mayor Dan Gordon said Millward stood out among ‘‘a range of exceptional applicants’’.
‘‘Jeff stood out as someone who is diligent, strategic, focused and has a strong and genuine connection to the district, its people, and our council. Jeff was the unanimous choice.
‘‘He believes in creating a strong team and working collaboratively on the problems facing the district and sector.’’
‘‘While he has been renowned for his financial management, more recently we have seen him demonstrate the breadth of his skillset as a leader.’’
Poll: As a customer, what do you think about automation?
The Press investigates the growing reliance on your unpaid labour.
Automation (or the “unpaid shift”) is often described as efficient ... but it tends to benefit employers more than consumers.
We want to know: What do you think about automation?
Are you for, or against?
-
9.4% For. Self-service is less frustrating and convenient.
-
43.5% I want to be able to choose.
-
47.1% Against. I want to deal with people.
Poll: Would you take a 1.5-hour hike for a shop? 🌿🐦
Canterbury, you have a hidden treasure right on your doorstep ... though it does come with a 1.5-hour walk up the stunning Rakaia Gorge Walkway.
Along the trail you’ll find The Fantail Shop showcasing small artworks by local artisans. Even better, every purchase supports the Fantail Trust, helping protect and restore biodiversity on the north bank of the gorge.
So we’re curious: would you take a 1.5-hour hike for a shop? (And for local biodiversity, of course 🌿)
-
32.4% Yes!
-
67.6% No thank you.
Musicians Wanted
‘Rangiora Bells’ is seeking musicians to join the handbell choir. We are a friendly group of handbell ringers who enjoy making music and entertaining at community groups.
If you would like to come and have a go at ringing handbells, please come along to one of our practice sessions. No commitment necessary if you decide that this is not for you.
An ability to read basic music notation preferred.
Practice days – Thursdays 1pm – 2.30pm
(beginning 19th February 2026)
In the lounge at Trinity Methodist Church
176 King Street
Rangiora
Clare Dolheguy
Phone 027 583 7504
claredoll6@gmail.com
Loading…
