Local Government Minister Simeon Brown says Wellington City Council’s new Crown Observer Lindsay McKenzie will sort through its “dysfunction between personalities".

Former Tasman and Gisborne council boss Lindsay McKenzie will start in the role tomorrow. 

Brown told Mike Hosking that McKenzie will be “working with the mayor and councillors to help them get on.” 

McKenzie’s other role would regard Wellington City Council’s long-term plan, after the council “decided to throw it out and start again.” 

“That’s created some significant concern about the financial position of the council.” 

Brown says he'll be getting monthly reports from McKenzie ahead of a final report at the end of his term on July 31. 

He said McKenzie would provide external advice and assist with a fresh pair of eyes, though it’s up to the council whether they follow the Crown Observer’s guidance. 

“[He is] someone else who … has not been part of all the drama over the last little while and can provide an extra set of advice.” 

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