February 14, 2022
Goff hands in notice
Auckland Mayor Phil Goff has confirmed he won’t seek re-election this year.
Mr Goff says it’s more than 40 years since he was first elected to office as MP for Mt Roskill, and it’s time to pass the baton to a new generation of leadership.
He thanked the people of Auckland for twice electing him by large majorities.
During his time the council made big investments in transport and water infrastructure, reversing decades of under-investment.
He says it has also taken big strides towards creating a sustainable environment, with measures to end the century-long problem of wastewater spilling onto beaches and into harbours.
Over 2 million native trees have been planted as part of the Mayor’s Million Trees campaign, and the current budget proposes strong steps to tackle climate change.
The council has also implemented a living wage for council employees and cleaning contractors.
Mayor Goff’s announcement opens the field to contenders from the left, with Councillor Efeso Collins having already announced a run.