Greater Wellington Regional Council and South Wairarapa District Council are mourning the sudden death of councillor Adrienne Staples, a former four-term mayor and current deputy chair of the regional council.
Staples, who represented the Wairarapa, was widely recognised for her leadership in local government and advocacy for rural communities.
Greater Wellington chair Daran Ponter said her contribution to public service was significant.
“Adrienne brought a clear rural perspective to the council table, grounded in lived experience and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our regions,” Ponter said.
“She was generous with her time, thoughtful in her advice, and unwavering in her commitment to serving her community.”
Greater Wellington chief executive Nigel Corry said Staples was respected across the organisation.
“Adrienne was a principled leader who worked constructively with elected members and staff alike,” Corry said.
“Her focus on practical outcomes, particularly for rural communities, helped shape better decisions for the region.”
Staples previously served four terms as mayor of South Wairarapa and was known for her advocacy for the rural economy and local communities.
South Wairarapa Mayor Fran Wilde said Staples’ impact would be long lasting.
“Adrienne cared deeply about South Wairarapa and its neighbouring districts and the people who call them home,” Wilde said.
“She understood our communities and championed them with unwavering courage and compassion.”
Wilde said Staples’ legacy included major community projects such as the redevelopment of Greytown’s town hall, Martinborough’s Waihinga Centre, and the Cross Creek to Featherston cycle trail.
Staples was recognised for her service with national and international honours, including being appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit and receiving the Order of the Rising Sun from Japan.
A by-election for the Wairarapa seat on Greater Wellington Regional Council will be announced in the coming weeks.
