In a statement, Queenstown Lakes mayor Jim Boult said Cr MacDonald had been battling with the effects of Parkinson's Disease and had followed medical advice to "significantly reduce his workload to focus on managing his condition''.
“Personally I am very sorry to see John leave council,'' Mr Boult said.
"He has been a supporter of providing increased access to homes as chair of the Mayoral Housing Affordability Taskforce in his first term.
"In more recent times he has been the chair of the Audit, Finance and Risk committee and the 2021-2031 10-year plan steering group.
"He has brought a steady and considered perspective to the table through some difficult debates and sensitive topics.
"I, for one, will miss his contribution to our important work for the district’s communities"
Cr MacDonald was first elected to the Queenstown-Wakatipu ward in October, 2016 and was re-elected in 2019 which, Mr Boult said, was a "testament to his integrity and the contribution he has made to the work of council''.
“I, my fellow Councillors, and all at QLDC wish John the very best for the future.”
The resignation triggers the process for a by-election to take place within the Queenstown-Wakatipu ward, details of which would be published once confirmed.
