Queenstown Lakes District councillors used last week’s meeting to farewell chief executive Mike Theelen, marking his final appearance at the council table after 10 years in the role.

The meeting was his 142nd since taking over in February 2016.

Mike, who announced last August he would not seek reappointment, has worked under three mayors and four councils during his tenure.

Mayor John Glover noted Thelen’s four decades in local government, including post-earthquake recovery work and his decade leading Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) through rapid growth and Covid-19 disruption.

“Even in the short time I’ve worked alongside Mike I’ve seen the high regard he is held in,” John said.

“Mike’s first council meeting took place on Feb 24 2016.

“Ironically the first public speaker who introduced himself as a Glenorchy business owner was me.

“Mike has served as chief executive during Covid…The change the organisation had to make during that time was significant.”

Deputy mayor Quentin Smith said Mike had always made himself available to councillors.

“I’ve always appreciated your open door and your willingness to always take a phone call, even at odd hours,” he said. “I appreciate the manner in which you’ve undertaken the job.”

Councillor Cody Tucker said he had learned a lot from Mike, who had built a strong culture among QLDC staff.

“The legacy you leave behind is not only in the work that is there but also the team as well,” he said. “I’m incredibly grateful for the service to our district in the last ten years.”

Friday (February 13) will be Mike’s final day on the job.

QLDC strategy and policy general manager Michelle Morss has been appointed interim chief executive while recruitment for a permanent replacement continues.

PHOTO: QLDC