Stalwarts praised

A motion thanking the last remaining founding members of the Clutha District Council - both voted out in this year's local body elections - was passed unanimously last night by the new council.

Former mayor Juno Hayes was acknowledged for his 33 years of local government service, and Catlins ward councillor Kevin Thompson was thanked for 30 years of "dedicated service".

Mr Hayes was elected mayor of the Clutha district in 1998, an office he held for 12 years.

Before that, he was a Milton borough councillor from 1977-86 before becoming Bruce District mayor.

Mr Thompson, Catlins ward councillor from 1989 to 2010, was a "diligent advocate for the Catlins and wider district" during his 30 years on the CDC, after serving on the Clutha County Council.

The pair were the last remaining foundation members of the Clutha District Council, formed in 1989.