Chatham Islands Council appoints new Chief Executive

The Chatham Islands Council is delighted to announce the appointment of Paul Eagle as its new chief executive, starting on 1 November 2023.

Paul Eagle new chief executive

Mayor Monique Croon says the outgoing Member of Parliament for Rongotai was appointed to the role following a comprehensive, nationwide search run by an independent recruitment firm.

“Paul was the standout candidate and demonstrated a vision for change and bold leadership, backed up by years of local government and political experience.

“As our MP for the Chatham Islands over the past six years, Paul knows our community well and has helped deliver critical services and infrastructure on the island.”

Of Waikato-Tainui heritage, Mr Eagle is the first Māori Chief Executive of the Council and will replace inaugural CEO Owen Pickles who is retiring after 21 years in the role.

“We are very grateful for Owen’s significant contribution to the Chathams for the past two decades and wish him the very best for his retirement,” says Mayor Croon.

Mr Eagle says he looks forward to building on the legacy of his predecessor and to serving the needs of the local community.

“I’m honoured to be chosen for this role and to supporting the people of the Chathams to achieve their aspirations.”

About Paul Eagle

Paul Eagle was elected as the Member of Parliament for Rongotai (which includes the Chatham Islands) in 2017, becoming the first Māori male to win a general electorate seat for the Labour Party in more than 100 years.

He retained the seat in 2020 with the 4th largest electorate majority.

Prior to becoming an MP, Paul was Deputy Mayor of Wellington City – the first Māori to hold the position. He had previously been a City Councillor for the Southern Ward since 2010.

Paul has 25 years of public service and previously held a number of senior public sector roles and worked in economic development, events, recreation and tourism for Wellington and the former Auckland and Manukau City Councils.

Paul becomes the first MP to transition from Parliament to a local government chief executive role.

He is married to Miriam and their son Tamarangi hails from the Chatham Islands (Ngāti Mutunga o Wharekauri).

Paul Eagle with Mayor Monique Croon