Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel is taking a leave of absence, citing her husband's health.
The city council released a statement on the move this morning, saying the mayor's decision relates to a personal matter.
"I am taking a leave of absence due to the state of my husband's health and ask that our privacy be respected at this time," Dalziel said.
![Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel.](https://www.nzherald.co.nz/resizer/v2/REE3YTANBLAI6V6MZ2UZRDOKOU.jpg?auth=6d074fa52bbd67bafcd160b022155c7bf9916dea1a756fea412b74fb43458d0e&width=16&height=10&quality=70&smart=true)
"I will be making no further comment."