Buller District Council welcomes new Group Manager Regulatory Services

Buller District Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Simon Bastion as the new Group Manager Regulatory Services, effective 25 November 2024.

Simon has extensive experience in local government and has resided on the West Coast since 2013, having served as the former Chief Executive of Westland District Council for six and half years.

He brings with him a strong skillset including customer service, strategy development, health and safety, continuous improvement, and supporting and developing high-performing teams.

Prior to this, he spent 25 years in the dairy industry, with four and a half years as General Manager of Operations for Westland Milk Products, preceded by time spent overseas working in the dairy industry in Saudi Arabia.

Simon is enthusiastic about continuing to build working relationships on the West Coast and with central government in this new role.

Mr Bastion says: “I am looking forward to working with a new executive team and supporting Buller District Council’s seasoned Regulatory Services team.

I am particularly happy to have found a position that enables me to stay on the Coast – it’s important to me, as I am committed to the West Coast community and have family here who love it too.”

CEO Simon Pickford states: "We are excited to welcome Simon to the Buller District Council team. He will be a great addition to our Senior Leadership. His local knowledge and experience will be a significant asset to the Buller community as we face the challenges of Westport's Master Planning and the district’s climate change adaptation strategy.”

-ENDS-

For further information please contact:
Community Engagement Team
Buller District Council
media.enquiries@bdc.govt.nz