After 18 years I find I have very little to say as I leave this chamber.

 However there are a group of people I do wish to recognise.

 I could not have done my job without the support and commitment of staff.

 Theirs is a lonely job. They are not able to answer the slings and arrows, the criticisms thrown at them by the uninformed, the mean and the just plain nasty.

 I admire their professionalism; I acknowledge their work ethic and their commitment to the council and to the district. They are the unsung heroes of the Kapiti Coast.

 Through you Patrick, to your staff and to your predecessors and their staff over 18 years, I salute you and thank you for making my job easier.