Queenstown Lakes district mayor Jim Boult has announced that he will not contest this year's mayoral election.

“This has not been an easy decision to make but I believe it is now time for me to pass on the mayoral chains to someone new,” Jim said.

“I have been honoured to have held the office of the mayor in our wonderful district for two terms and am both proud and humbled by what this council has achieved over those five and a half years. 

“But after lengthy consideration and discussions with my family, I have decided that I will not be putting myself forward for re-election in October.”

Jim said he had thoroughly enjoyed his time as mayor with his only regret that some goals were derailed by the Covid-19 pandemic.

“First and foremost, I wish to thank my family for their outstanding support over this period, and in particular my wife Karen for her unwavering commitment and enthusiasm,” he said. 

“I also wish to thank my fellow councillors, both from this term and the last, and especially the staff I have worked closely with at council.”

Jim confirmed he and Karen intend to remain highly engaged in both the district and wider New Zealand through their ongoing support and commitment to various not-for-profit organisations.

Local body elections will be held on October 8, 2022 and candidate nominations officially open on Friday July 15, 2022.

PHOTO: Wānaka App