Former Invercargill mayor Sir Tim Shadbolt has been remembered as the last "celebrity-type" mayor, and former colleagues have said they were fortunate to have been "part of that era". He served eight terms as Invercargill mayor and two terms as Waitematā mayor, making him one of the longest-serving mayors in New Zealand. Former Invercargill mayor, and Sir Tim’s former deputy mayor, Nobby Clarke said Sir Tim was "well known" for his sense of humour and ability to entertain. Sir Tim’s former deputy mayor, Nobby Clarke, said Sir Tim was ‘‘well known’’ for his sense of humour. PHOTO: STEPHEN JAQUIERYHis partner Asha Dutt described Sir Tim as "a kind-hearted man who cared deeply about the people around him".

Source: Otago Daily Times January 08, 2026 22:33 UTC