Selwyn council backs Steve Gibling to lead through local government reform
Wednesday, 1 July 2026
The Selwyn District Council has appointed Steve Gibling as its permanent chief executive after he spent the past seven months leading the organisation in an acting capacity.
Gibling officially started in the role on Wednesday after serving as acting chief executive since January, overseeing the council through its annual planning process, government reform and several significant community issues.
Mayor Lydia Gliddon said the appointment followed a competitive recruitment process.
“We had a high calibre of candidates for this role and went through a thorough and robust process. In the end, we know we’ve appointed the right person for Selwyn.”
She said Gibling had demonstrated “strong, steady leadership” during a period of change and had earned the confidence of councillors and staff.
Gliddon said affordability remained a priority for residents and the council needed leadership that could balance keeping costs under control while delivering essential services and planning for future growth.
She also credited Gibling with helping rebuild trust with residents at the Upper Selwyn Huts while managing the council's wider responsibilities.
Gibling said he was proud to take on the role permanently and looked forward to continuing to work with staff, elected members and the community.
“I’m really pleased to be stepping into this role and continuing to work alongside our staff, elected members and community.”
He said local government was entering a significant period of reform that presented both challenges and opportunities.
“We’re in the middle of what is likely the biggest reform of local government since the 1980s. That brings uncertainty, but also a real opportunity to shape how we deliver for our communities into the future.”
Gibling said the council’s more than 600 staff would play a key role in delivering services across the district as it prepared for long-term planning and ongoing reform.
He brings more than 25 years of leadership experience across the local government, tertiary and not-for-profit sectors.