Top of the South Councils Paying Top Dollar for Execs
Ratepayers in the Top of the South continue to fund big executive pay packets according to the Taxpayers’ Union’s new 2025 Council CEO Rich List, despite the region facing increasing financial pressures.
The highest-paying council in the region was Tasman District Council, who paid $392,000 to Leonie Rae and Janine Dowding.
Local Government Campaigns Manager, Sam Warren, said:
“Councils say they’re stretched thin. But when it comes to executive salaries, they seem to have deep pockets.”
“Councils like Tasman paying CEOs more than five times the average Kiwi income sends the wrong message to ratepayers who are being told to expect service cuts.”
"These salaries show that the spirit of public service isn't being reflected by council bosses. Perhaps it's time to revert the job title from 'CEO' to Town Clerk. That would reflect what the job is supposed to be about: service, not riches."
“It’s time for Top of the South councils to lead by example. Cap rates. Cut waste. Focus on what matters.”
The full list can be found at RichList.co.nz.
| Council | Chief Executive | 2023-24 Renumeration | 2022-23 Renumeration | $ Change | % Change |
| Tasman District Council | Leonie Rae/Janine Dowding | $392,000.00 | $375,000.00 | $17,000.00 | 4.53% |
| Marlborough District Council | Mark Wheeler | $385,000.00 | $361,000.00 | $24,000.00 | 6.65% |
| Nelson City Council | Nigel Philpott | $362,700.00 | $387,912.00 | -$25,212.00 | -6.50% |
| 2023-24 Renumeration | 2022-23 Renumeration | $ Change | % Change | ||
| Total: | $1,139,700.00 | $1,123,912.00 | $15,788.00 | 1.40% | |
| Average: | $379,900.00 | $374,637.33 | $5,262.67 | 1.40% |