Councillor Scott McKenzie appointed Deputy Mayor
Published on 29 October 2025
Second-term councillor Scott McKenzie has been appointed Deputy Mayor for Whangārei District by Mayor-elect Ken Couper.
Councillor McKenzie, who represents the Hikurangi-Coastal General Ward, has served as a full-time councillor for the past three years.
Raised in Whangārei on a Mangakahia dairy farm, he brings significant experience as a registered architect, including work on civic, social and residential projects across New Zealand and the UK.
Mayor-elect Couper says Cr McKenzie is known for his practical understanding of planning, consents and budgets, and his strong advocacy for local projects and community.
“He has demonstrated a deep commitment to our District and its people, and I look forward to working alongside him for the coming term,” said Mayor-elect Couper.
Mayor-elect Couper has also announced the standing committee chairs and deputies for the new term, covering key areas of Council governance.
Returning elected members Cr Paul Yovich (Finance Committee), Cr Deb Harding (Community Development Committee) and Cr Phoenix Ruka (Te Kārearea) have been named standing committee chairs.
Council newcomer Cr Brad Flower has been appointed chair of Council’s Infrastructure Committee, and experienced local politician Cr Crichton Christie will chair the Strategy, Planning and Development Committee.
Mayor-elect Couper says the combination of experience and fresh thinking will support the community well.
“I’m confident this team will serve our District with integrity, energy, and a shared commitment to progress.”
Full list of Council appointments
Standing committees
- Finance Committee
- Chair: Cr P Yovich
- Deputy Chair: Cr Christie
- Infrastructure Committee
- Chair: Cr Flower
- Deputy Chair: Cr Reid
- Strategy, Planning and Development Committee
- Chair: Cr Christie
- Deputy Chair: Cr Baker
- Community Development Committee
- Chair: Cr Harding
- Deputy Chair: Cr Olsen
- Te Kārearea Strategic Partnership Forum
- Chair: Cr Ruka
- Deputy Chair: Cr Harding
- Risk and Audit Committee
- Chair: Independent Chair
- Deputy Chair: Cr P Yovich
Issues and Updates Forum
Subcommittees
- Airport Noise Management Committee
- Civic Honours Committee
- Exemptions and Objections
- District Licensing Committee
- Chair: Independent Chair
- Deputy Chair: Cr Baker
- CE Review Committee