Tate became Central Hawke’s Bay council chief executive in 2022, leading the organisation through Cyclone Gabrielle the following year.
Before that, he was the council’s customer and community partnerships group manager.
Tate said he was keen to apply his experience and energy to the role.
“Whanganui has much to be proud of and many opportunities ahead.
" I feel privileged to have this chance to build on the strong foundations already in place for Whanganui’s future.”
While it was a professional opportunity, there were also personal benefits for his family, Tate said.
“A move to Whanganui returns us closer to family and provides our young family with the opportunity to grow up in a great place.”
Tripe said the appointment was an important decision for the district.
“Whanganui is continuing to grow, and it’s crucial that we have a chief executive with the demonstrated experience and skills who can provide steady leadership and clear direction, particularly through the changes signalled by the Government for councils.”
Former Whanganui council chief executive David Langford left for the United Kingdom in October to be director of highways, transportation and waste management at Nottinghamshire County Council.
He was in the role for three and a half years.
“I want to acknowledge the professionalism and stability our interim chief executive has provided over recent months,” Tripe said.
“Barbara’s calm, experienced and thoughtful leadership has ensured the effective continuation of council operations while the recruitment process took place.
“We’ve really appreciated her input.”
The council will formally welcome Tate in late March.
He finishes his Central Hawke’s Bay role in mid-March.
