Council appoints new chief executive
Published on 12 December 2025
Whanganui District Council has confirmed Doug Tate as its next chief executive.
Along with his extensive leadership experience in local government, Tate will bring a great mix of strategic capability and fresh thinking, says Mayor Andrew Tripe.
He says, “Doug impressed us with his understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing Whanganui. He brings a thoughtful, future-focused approach and a clear commitment to ensuring Whanganui continues to be a great place to live.”
Tate comes to Whanganui from Central Hawkes Bay District Council where he has held the role of chief executive since 2022. That year he led the organisation through challenging weather events, followed by Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023, along with successfully navigating major change in the direction of water services delivery and responding to major cost pressures impacting community affordability.
Prior to that, he headed the council’s customer and community partnerships group, leading organisational strategy and change, transforming service delivery and creating building blocks for Central Hawke’s Bay’s future, including housing growth, spatial planning – and a generational district plan review.
Tate is keen to apply his experience and energy to the role. “Whanganui has much to be proud of and many opportunities ahead. I feel privileged to have this chance to build on the strong foundations already in place for Whanganui’s future.”
While Tate acknowledges the professional opportunity, he also notes that personal benefits for his family were a factor. “A move to Whanganui returns us closer to family and provides our young family with the opportunity to grow up in a great place. Both professionally and personally, we’re incredibly positive about our future in Whanganui.”
Mayor Andrew says the appointment is an important decision for our district. “Whanganui is continuing to grow and it’s crucial that we have a chief executive with the demonstrated experience and skills who can provide steady leadership and clear direction, particularly through the changes signalled by the government for councils.”
Tate will take over from interim chief executive Barbara McKerrow, who stepped into the role following the departure of former chief executive David Langford in October this year.
“I want to acknowledge the professionalism and stability our interim chief executive has provided over recent months,” Mayor Andrew says. “Barbara’s calm, experienced and thoughtful leadership has ensured the effective continuation of council operations while the recruitment process took place. We’ve really appreciated her input.”
The council will formally welcome its new chief executive in late March 2026.