Auckland Council has announced that Geoff Hunt will be taking the reins as the new chair of the Watercare Services Limited Board.

This appointment comes after a thorough review by the council’s Performance and Appointments Committee, with Hunt stepping into the role from 12 October 2024.

The process behind this appointment has been unique, as it revisits a previous decision made earlier this year.

Back in June, the High Court intervened, setting aside the original appointment due to concerns over the process followed.

However, the ruling was not against the appointment of Hunt himself but focused on the procedural elements involved.

To address this, the council carefully revised its approach, emphasising the importance of sound practices for appointing leaders to council-controlled organisations.

Alastair Cameron, Auckland Council’s Manager for CCO/External Partnerships, commented on the updated process, stating, “Ensuring the appropriate appointment practices are in place, and carried out, to deliver well-governed council-controlled organisations is a priority for us, and we have adjusted our processes accordingly.”

The Performance and Appointments Committee, responsible for appointments to the boards of council-controlled organisations, carried out the revised process under the council’s Appointment and Remuneration Policy for Board Members and in line with the Local Government Act.

Geoff Hunt brings a wealth of experience to his new position.

With over 27 years in the construction, operation, and maintenance of critical infrastructure, Hunt has held CEO roles in four New Zealand-based companies and has overseen projects across the UK, USA, Australia, the Pacific, and parts of Asia.

He is also involved with the New Zealand Infrastructure Commission and holds directorships in two privately owned businesses that supply materials to the construction sector.

Through his consultancy, Geoff Hunt Consulting Ltd, he offers expertise in areas such as business performance improvement, construction project delivery, and dispute resolution within the sector.

Hunt's credentials include a master’s degree in engineering, and he is a Distinguished Fellow of Engineering New Zealand and a member of the Institute of Directors.

His diverse experience, spanning both government and private sectors, positions him well to lead Watercare in its mission to provide essential water services to Auckland.