Breakdown in Relationship Between Mayor and Chief Executive Confirmed
Written by John Freer on May 22, 2025
CFM can confirm that the working relationship between Thames-Coromandel Mayor Len Salt and the Council’s Chief Executive, Aileen Lawrie, has broken down, with communication between the pair reportedly limited to formal meetings or when others are present.
Sources both inside and outside Thames-Coromandel District Council have confirmed the deteriorating dynamic, with representatives from other councils and Local Government New Zealand telling CFM they are concerned about the growing dysfunction at the district’s highest leadership level, due to the minimal communication between its two most senior figures.
CFM sought comment from both Mayor Salt and Chief Executive Lawrie.
The Mayor declined to comment. In response, Ms Lawrie acknowledged our request but advised that Cr John Morrissey, Chair of the Chief Executive Committee, would respond on her behalf.
Cr Morrissey stated that the committee remains satisfied the Chief Executive is available to support the Mayor and elected members in carrying out their responsibilities.
He added that, as an employee, Ms Lawrie would not be expected to respond publicly to what he referred to as employment matters.
Any public comment, he said, would be for the Mayor to make.
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Shane Thomsen On May 22, 2025 at 9:24 am
Fighting amongst themselves, and not working for the community or the people.
The previous CEO left the country a frustrated man.
Peter Fairhead On May 22, 2025 at 3:33 pm
Transparency is required so the constituents can make an informed decision on the direction this council is taking.
Neil Death On May 22, 2025 at 3:35 pm
I continuously complain about my footpath, Court Street,which was tar sealed and gravel ,plus the poor construction of the road prior to footpath, Is services the High School,Medical center,Bowling club and Hospital.
The usual reply we will pass on to contractors,well in my opinion a lot of our rates are sucked up by contractors with poor outcomes.
Don’t see Gravel footpaths in Whitianga,Whagamata,Coromandel in centre of town,and my street runs parallel to TCDC main office.
You might think there are more important things in the area like a pool,but my street is full of cars 6 days a week.
Gives me the bloody shits when Whitianga has footpath so wide just to have lunch and drink coffee.
That’s a point maybe I should buy a coffee machine then I will get concrete.
Regards
Neil Death