Council makes key appointments to support future governance

Selwyn District Council has confirmed a series of appointments across three important governance entities, helping ensure strong leadership and oversight as the district continues to grow.

Mayor Lydia Gliddon said the changes reflected Council's commitment to effective governance and planning for the future.

"As Selwyn continues to grow and evolve, it's important we have the right people in place to provide strong governance, independent oversight and strategic direction.”

"These appointments help position us well for the opportunities and challenges ahead and ensure our organisations are well equipped to serve our communities now and into the future."

CORDE Board Appointment

Council has appointed Megen McKay to the Board of CORDE, from 1 September, 2026.

Megen is a lawyer and Chair-endorsed Independent Hearings Commissioner with more than 25 years’ experience across resource management, mana whenua, local government and Crown-iwi partnerships. She previously represented Te Taumutu Rūnanga on Selwyn District Council and is currently one of two Ngāi Tahu Councillors for Environment Canterbury.

"CORDE plays a critical role in delivering infrastructure and services that support our communities,” says Mayor Gliddon.

"Megen knows Selwyn, she knows local government, and she understands the resource management side of the work. That's a useful combination for the board."

"This appointment brings valuable experience and expertise, alongside local knowledge to the board as it continues to support Selwyn."

CORDE is the Council's infrastructure construction and maintenance company. It delivers and maintains essential community infrastructure including roads, water services, parks and reserves, and civil construction projects both within Selwyn and across the South Island.

Audit and Risk Committee Appointment

Council has appointed Carol Bellette as an independent member of its Audit and Risk Committee, from 1 October, 2026.

Carol is an experienced director, Chartered Accountant and former chief financial officer with significant expertise in finance, risk, governance and infrastructure investment. Her current governance roles include the New Zealand Infrastructure Commission and Waipā District Council's Risk and Assurance Committee.

The Audit and Risk committee provides independent advice and oversight on financial management, governance, risk management and assurance processes.

"Strong governance starts with robust oversight,’’ says Mayor Gliddon.

"The Audit and Risk Committee plays an important role in helping Council make informed decisions and manage risk effectively. We're pleased to welcome someone with significant expertise to this role."

Selwyn Water Limited Board Appointments

Council has also appointed three new directors to the Selwyn Water Limited Board.

The appointments reflect the Council's commitment to strong governance and effective oversight of Selwyn Water as the organisation continues to deliver reliable, resilient and sustainable water services for communities across the district and build the 10-year Water Services Strategy.

Selwyn District Council has appointed Shaun Clarke, Jen Crawford and Allan Dawson to the Selwyn Water Limited Board for three-year terms, effective from 7 September, 2026.

Shaun brings extensive local government, infrastructure and water sector experience, including serving as Chief Executive of Far North District Council and current ministerial appointments focused on water services reform. He also has significant governance, risk management and strategic leadership experience gained through senior roles in local government, higher education and the New Zealand Defence Force.

A Selwyn-based professional director, Jen has extensive governance experience across infrastructure, utilities, local government and water-related organisations. Her background includes senior leadership roles in resource management and environmental law, along with governance positions at Orion, ChristchurchNZ and a number of major infrastructure organisations.

Allan is an experienced independent director and chair with expertise in regulated infrastructure sectors, governance and strategic leadership. A Chartered Accountant, he has held senior governance and executive roles in New Zealand, Australia and Singapore, including Deputy Chair of the Electricity Authority.

Bruce Gemmell was also extended as a Selwyn Water Board member until 30 June, 2027.

Mayor Gliddon welcomed the appointments, saying the new directors would bring valuable experience and expertise to the Board.

"Collectively, these directors bring significant governance, leadership and sector expertise that will support Selwyn Water's continued delivery for our communities.”

"Their appointment reflects our commitment to ensuring Selwyn Water remains well governed and well positioned for the future."

Mayor Gliddon also acknowledged the contribution of outgoing directors Linda Falwasser and John Brockies, who have stepped down from the Board.

"We sincerely thank Linda and John for their contribution to Selwyn Water.”

"They have played an important role in helping establish the organisation, including overseeing the transfer of water assets and approving Selwyn Water's one year  Water Services Strategy.

"Their governance and stewardship during the organisation's first year of operation have helped build strong foundations for the future, and we wish them both well for the future."