The new chief executive for Stratford District Council, Matt O'Mara, arrived at his office this week and says he is enjoying meeting everyone and getting to know the area.
The 44-year-old has moved from Wellington with his wife, Adrienne and their three young children and says his first impressions of Stratford are all positive.
What's not to like - it has so much going for it. The clear air, the majestic scenery with Mt Taranaki as a backdrop.
Matt describes Stratford as "a dynamic town" saying it has a lot going for it along with significant further potential.
Matt plans to look closely at the economic development programme for the district in his first few months, seeing how it matches the community's desires and needs.