Another tōtara has fallen

“Sad to hear,” said Mayor Wayne Brown, “another tōtara has fallen. My thoughts are with his family.”

The Mayor and Councillors took a quiet reflective minute at today’s meeting of the Govering Body to pay tribute to former Auckland City mayor Les Mills, asking Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson to speak about the former mayor, whom she knew well.

“We pay tribute to Leslie Roy Mills, CNZM MBE JP, who has passed away aged 91.

“Les represented NZ at the Olympics four times in shot put and discus and won 5 medals at the Commonwealth Games including gold in the discus at the 1966 Games.

“He also founded the Les Mills gyms one of our extremely successful global exports. And he was an important mentor and coach to Beatrice Faumuina.

“We want to especially recognise his contribution as Mayor of Auckland City (1990–1998).

“During his leadership, Auckland City Council initiated the America’s Cup Village and Viaduct redevelopment, laying the groundwork for the vibrant waterfront we enjoy today.

“His mayoralty also oversaw the development and opening of the Sky Tower and SkyCity complex, now iconic parts of our skyline.

“Les also introduced Auckland’s green wheelie bins for rubbish collection and implemented water charges to support more efficient water use – changes that continue to shape how our city operates.

“Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones,” said the Deputy Mayor.