Christchurch journalist talks council transparency with new CEO

In an interview with local journalist Chris Lynch, of Chris Lynch Media, new Christchurch City Council chief executive Mary Richardson says she’s focused on fostering stability within the organisation, improving engagement with the community, and ensuring transparency in council operations.

Ms Richardson, who had been the council's interim boss, in recent days was officially given the role until June 30, 2026.

In doing so, she insisted on a $100,000 pay cut.

New Christchurch City Council CEO Mary Richardson (Image: Supplied).

In announcing the appointment, city mayor Phil Mauger said Ms Richardson had been asked by the interview panel to put herself forward for the job after an unsuccessful recruitment process up until then.

Queenstown Lakes District Council chief executive Mike Theelen is understood to have been one of three shortlisted for Ms Anderson's job - out of 37 applicants for it.

In the interview with Mr Lynch after her appointment, Ms Richardson says she aims to create a work environment where staff are empowered to provide the best service to the people of Christchurch while working to rebuild public trust in the Council’s decision-making processes.

"It’s our responsibility to make this a good place to work and to ensure we’re doing the best for the city," she told Mr Lynch. 

She stressed her commitment to public service, and how that influenced her decision to request the drop in pay.

"As I’ve said many times, I’m a public servant. It’s an honour to serve the public, and I am very mindful that the ratepayers who pay my salary are facing tough times right now. This is one way I could contribute," she told Mr Lynch. 

Ms Richardson agreed to the role on the proviso she didn't want it for the five-year term, the mayor said when announcing the appointment.

He told Mr Lynch this week she stood out from the other candidates as she brings "stability, which is exactly what we need right now".

Both the mayor and Ms Richardson stressed to Mr Lynch the importance of governance and management working together to rebuild public trust in the council.

"This isn’t unique to Christchurch - it’s a challenge faced by democracies around the world," Ms Richardson told Mr Lynch.

She said she thought face-to-face or over the phone contact would "make a bigger difference than any PR campaign" the council could run.

"What people trust is the last person they spoke to at the council," she told him.

This week the Queenstown Lakes District Council revealed a new $15,000 survey that will zero in on community views of council performance and how much they trust the council to focus on the right issues and deliver value for money.

Previously the council had canvassed community views as part of its annual Quality of Life Survey.

Read the full story by Mr Lynch: New Christchurch City Council CEO Mary Richardson focuses on stability, engagement, and transparency

Main image (Christchurch City Council)