On the eve of his departure from the Hastings District Council, outgoing chief executive Ross McLeod officiated at a citizenship ceremony on Wednesday night.
McLeod announced in March this year that he was leaving to take up the position of chief executive of the Waverley Council in New South Wales, ending a tenure of more than 10 years with the Hastings District Council.
On Wednesday night, as he had done once a month during his time, he officiated at the ceremony where he swore in 29 people as New Zealand citizens.
He said the function was a great way to end his tenure, and that although sad to be leaving he was excited about the new opportunities ahead of him.
In April Neil Taylor was appointed acting chief executive until a new permanent replacement was found.