End of an Era: Doug Leeder to Step Down as Regional Council Chair
- Holly Grundy
- Jun 5
- 2 min read
Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council Chair Doug Leeder has announced that he will not be seeking re-election this year.
Chair Leeder has been a long-serving figure in the region’s governance landscape, joining the Regional Council in 2013 after 12 years as a councillor for Ōpōtiki District Council. Prior to his time in local government, he spent two decades in corporate governance within the dairy industry.
Currently, Chair Leeder also serves as a director of Port of Tauranga Ltd and holds an appointment from the Māori Land Court as an independent committee chair. Alongside these roles, he continues to run a dairy farm in Ōpōtiki.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time in local government – it’s very dynamic and rewarding,” said Chair Leeder. “I would like to acknowledge and thank the incredible team of councillors and staff I have worked alongside during this term and previous terms, especially Deputy Chair Jane Nees.”
“It’s a critical time for local government and a good time to pass the baton to the next generation of leadership,” he added.
Chair Leeder reflected on his leadership, saying he believes success is measured by leaving an organisation in better condition than when you found it, and by being proud of what you've achieved.
“In our case, I think the community’s appreciation of what we do, largely legislative and regulatory has improved. Feedback from those who engage with the Regional Council shows they feel they’ve had a fair hearing. That said, there’s still work to be done, especially in addressing public confusion about the roles of regional councils versus territorial authorities a challenge faced nationwide.”
Bay of Plenty Regional Council Chief Executive Fiona McTavish praised Leeder’s leadership and contributions.
“Doug’s leadership has been instrumental in guiding the Regional Council through a range of challenges and opportunities. We are incredibly thankful for his contributions and wish him all the best in his future endeavours,” she said.
Ms McTavish highlighted his strength in building consensus and uniting diverse viewpoints – a skill honed through his extensive and varied career.
Local body elections will be held on Saturday, 11 October 2025.
