Tauranga City Council CEO dies in sleep

Ken Paterson died suddenly in his sleep last night. Photo / Bay of Plenty Times

Tauranga City Council chief executive Ken Paterson died in his sleep last night, aged 60.

Originally from Scotland, Mr Paterson took up the helm at council in July last year, moving from his role as chief executive of Northland Regional Council.

A trained engineer, he migrated to New Zealand more than 20 years ago from a tiny Scottish village called the Bridge of Earn.

He is survived by his wife, Melanie, and their young son, Findley and seven-month-old twins. He also has older children.

Mayor Stuart Crosby said councillors and staff were incredibly saddened to hear of Mr Paterson's death.

"Our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies go to Melanie and his family. This time is going to be extremely difficult for everyone.''

Mr Paterson's prior experience includes work in both the public and private sectors and he was selected to lead the Tauranga council from a list of 30 applicants.

He previously led TechScape, an infrastructure works and maintenance company employing 290 people formed by the former Waitakere and North Shore City Councils.

Prior to that he was the Taupo-based generations manager for Contact Energy.

"In the 11 months he was at Tauranga City Council Ken has had a significant impact on the organisation. We enjoyed Ken's unswerving optimism, his passion for the job and his enthusiasm to address the hard issues.''

A condolence book will be available in the council reception area for anyone who would like to pay their respects.