Speech – New Zealand Government
Rt Hon Jacinda Ardern
Kia ora koutou katoa and thank-you for the invitation to speak to you all today.
I would like to acknowledge Local Government New Zealand President Stuart Crosby, and Chief Executive, Susan Freeman-Greene, Te Maruata Chair, Bonita Bigham, and our host, Mayor John Leggett.
I also acknowledge all the elected members and chief executives here today, and Taituarā Chief Executive, Karen Thomas.
I would also like to acknowledge the passing of the late LGNZ President, Dave Cull. I have fond memories of working alongside Dave and of the vision he had for local government. The only thing I saw him more passionate about was Dunedin. He’ll be greatly missed.