Mary Richardson has been officially appointed as the Chief Executive of Christchurch City Council, with her term set to run until 30 June 2026.

Richardson has been serving as Interim Chief Executive since November 2023.

Mayor Phil Mauger said there were 37 applicants for the role, with three candidates shortlisted for interviews by the Mayor and councillors.

However, the interview panel did not appoint anyone at the end of the process and instead approached Richardson to consider applying for the position.

“She agreed to do so with the proviso that she didn’t want the role for the five-year term,” Mauger said.

Mauger praised Richardson’s experience, saying, “Mary knows our communities and local government inside out.

The councillors and I are looking forward to continuing to work with her through the next local body elections and to the end of the financial year in 2026.”

Richardson has held several roles at Christchurch City Council, including 10 years as General Manager of Citizens and Community before stepping into the Interim Chief Executive role. Her appointment provides stability to the council as it navigates through the next local elections and into 2026.