New QLDC mayor hosts informal 'team-building' meeting

Queenstown Lakes Mayor-Elect, John Glover, has wasted no time in stamping his style of leadership on the new council.

Less than 48 hours after winning the mayoralty, Glover held an informal meeting with his councillors in Arrowtown today. “It is a chance to start team-building out of the glare of the media and for the team to transition quickly from campaign mode,” Glover said. 

Not all councillors on Glover’s new team could attend today.

• From left Stephen Brent, Yeverley McCarthy, Nicola King, Niki Gladding, Heath Copland, Quentin Smith, Gavin Bartlett, Melissa White, John Glover.

Simon “Q” Belk, and Matt Wong were unable to attend due to prior commitments and Jon Mitchell joined the group 15 minutes into the four-hour session following another pre-organised meeting.

Glover says, “Obviously some councillors can’t attend as the meeting has been called at short notice.”

New councillors Stephen Brent, Yeverley McCarthy, and Nicola King joined experienced councillors Niki Gladding, Quentin Smith, Melissa White, Gavin Bartlett, and Heath Copland for today’s in-house session at Arrowtown’s Athenaeum Hall.

“As no one is sworn in yet we’re not acting in any formal capacity," Glover said.

“I want to start the process of talking to people, and understand the capabilities of councillors and any areas where support might be needed.

“It’s really about the human side of getting a team together. It’s a bit like a staff meeting really.”

Glover campaigned on the need for inclusive leadership and listening to people.