Longtime council CEO farewelled

FAREWELL: Carterton mayor John Booth (left) and former mayor Gary McPhee with Colin Wright (centre).

Colleagues, friends and residents have gathered to farewell Carterton District Council's retiring helmsman, a man described by one former mayor as the "safest pair of hands in the world".

Council chief executive Colin Wright retired last week and the council marked his departure with a well-earned farewell party at the Events Centre on Friday.

Former mayor Gary McPhee, who worked with Mr Wright for about five years, described him as a "very, very sensible, honourable and intelligent man".

"He's the safest pair of hands in the world."

Council community facilities manager Brian McWilliams said Mr Wright had earned the respect of all the staff.

"He's a really nice man with an open door policy for people and staff. He puts his faith in staff to do a good job.

"He's a super-nice guy."

In his farewell speech, Mayor John Booth said that over the five years of working with Mr Wright they had been "through some amazing adventures on our journey".

"You have endeared yourself to our community - even though you live in Greytown - who are sad to see you go but are very, very happy that you are now going to have lots of fantastic times. Enjoy your family and starting on the list of jobs Jackie has for you."

Mr Wright said he would miss the people.

"It has been good but I've got mixed feelings - but predominantly happy ones. It feels like the right time to be stepping down.

"I'll miss all the people but on the other hand it would be nice to have a bit more time in the my day to do the things I want to do."