Council mourns the passing of former regional councillor and chair

Waikato Regional Council is mourning the passing of former councillor and chair Alan Livingston, a respected leader who devoted many years of service to the community.

Mr Livingston ended his local government career in October 2019 after two terms at the regional council. He was chair for his final term between 2016 and 2019. His decision ended 24 years representing the community, including 18 years as a Waipā councillor, 12 of them as Waipā mayor.

Chief Executive Chris McLay said Mr Livingston’s contribution to council and local governance was significant and enduring.

“Alan Livingston was a deeply respected councillor and chair who gave many years of dedicated service to our region. His leadership, integrity and commitment to public service left a lasting impact, and he will be remembered with great respect,” Mr McLay said.

Mr Livingston was widely admired for his thoughtful, measured approach to governance and his strong belief in the role of local government to improve outcomes for communities. Among other things, he was also involved with the QEII Trust, Waikato River Authority (WRA) and Sport Waikato.

“Alan brought a calm, considered approach to leadership and was known for taking the time to listen. He cared deeply about the future of the region and worked tirelessly to ensure decisions were made in the best interests of Waikato communities.

“Many of our staff had the privilege of working alongside Alan and benefited from his wisdom and steady guidance. The work of the regional council resonated with Alan’s own on farm environmental stewardship,” Mr McLay said.

Current Ngā Hau e Whā councillor Tipa Mahuta, who was his Waikato Regional Council Deputy Chair, said: “Kua hinga tētehi tōtara nui o Pirongia. A great tree from Pirongia has fallen. 

“Alan brought a wealth of experience as Waipā mayor, but the strength of his leadership was bringing together a Waikato-wide conversation. He worked well with iwi and was held in high regard, strengthening partnerships at the time and leaving things in good stead for future leaders.

“He brought together all Waikato and Waipā river stakeholders to have constructive conversations for the protection and wellbeing of the awa under the Te Ture Whaimana o Te Awa o Waikato (Vision and Strategy) and was a Crown appointee on the WRA,” Cr Mahuta said.

When he retired from local politics in 2019, Mr Livingston said highlights for him had included improving management of flood control assets, holding the line against pests and weeds and recognising the work of volunteer groups, progressing and supporting farmer initiatives to improve water quality, and leading the Waikato Mayoral Forum to ensure a stronger Waikato voice was heard in Wellington.

Waikato Regional Council extends its sincere condolences to Mr Livingston’s family, friends, and all those who worked closely with him.

“On behalf of the council and staff, our thoughts are with Alan’s loved ones at this difficult time. His legacy will continue to be reflected in the work of the councils and communities he served,” Mr McLay said.

Alan Livingston (2016)