Mackenzie District Mayor Anne Munro Steps Down Amid Worsening Cancer Diagnosis

In a heartfelt and deeply personal decision, Anne Munro, the Mayor of the Mackenzie District, has announced her resignation from the role and will not be seeking re-election in the upcoming October election. This move comes as her cancer diagnosis has worsened, and she has determined that stepping aside is in the best interest of the council and the community it serves.

Munro, who was diagnosed with cancer shortly before Christmas last year, confirmed through recent testing that the condition is now metastatic. Despite ongoing treatment, her prognosis remains uncertain. In a statement, she emphasized that while she has been keeping up with council business, the complexity and speed of local governance have made it increasingly difficult for her to provide the level of leadership required at this pivotal time.

"The work we do is complex and fast-moving. I’m simply not across the level of detail needed to provide the leadership our council and community deserve at this critical time," Munro said. She also highlighted that the council is currently navigating a period of significant change, including the implementation of the government’s Local Water Done Well reforms.

Munro has served as a councillor since October 2016 and was elected mayor in 2022. During her tenure, she has been a strong advocate for the community, and she expressed deep gratitude to the council staff, elected members, and residents for their support and dedication.

"Without your efforts, many of us would have no water in our taps, no roads to drive on and no shared community spaces to enjoy. Few outside the organisation truly appreciate the breadth and complexity of the responsibilities council carries every day," she said.

Deputy Mayor Karen Morgan will act as mayor until the next election. Munro praised Morgan for her leadership, saying she has "led with calm and capable hands" in her absence.

In closing remarks, Munro reflected on her time in local government, acknowledging that the journey has not been what she expected. "Needless to say, this is not where I expected to be, nor how I imagined my time in local government would come to an end. But perhaps it’s a reminder that change is life’s only constant. We can’t always control what comes our way, but we can choose how we respond," she said.

Munro also encouraged the community to continue meeting challenges with open minds and respectful debate. "My hope is that, as a community, we continue to meet challenges with open minds, respectful debate focused on the issues not the individuals and a spirit that celebrates both our differences and the values we share."