Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council
There were no other nominations for the role.
Councillor Deon Swiggs has been appointed as Deputy Chair.
Councillor Pauling, who represents the Christchurch West/Ōpuna constituency, said it will be an honour and a privilege to lead the Council.
“We have an ambitious work programme for the next 10 years, and I am proud of that. Now we just need to get on with it.”
Pauling was nominated by Ngāi Tahu Councillor Tutehounuku ‘Nuk’ Korako and this was seconded by Ngāi Tahu Councillor Iaean Cranwell.
Deputy Chair Deon Swiggs (left) and Chair Craig Pauling
“We are all on the same waka and we are paddling hard for our communities, most importantly for the precious place we call home, for our water and our land and our air and sea,” Pauling said shortly after his appointment.
“A lot of our work goes unnoticed but it is happening – from the thousands of bus trips taken on our public transport each month to the 26,000 consents we manage. We have been a leader in setting rules for land use and farming consents.
“We protect homes, farms and businesses through our river flood protection systems. We protect towns across Canterbury. Our regional parks provide multiple benefits, including sediment control, flood protection, biodiversity as well as being used for recreation. We clean up wrecked vessels and ensure safe use of our harbours and waterways.
“We don’t always get it right, but at the end of the day, we’re doing a lot of good work for a lot of people,” Pauling said.
Deputy Chair Swiggs, who represents Christchurch West/Ōpuna, said he’s looking forward to working alongside Chair Pauling.
“I’m humbled to be appointed to this role of Deputy. For me, the priority will be ensuring we focus on our core services, and do it well.”
