Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Olympic champion to be ambassador for Auckland

Updated at 8:18 pm on 28 October 2010

Olympic champion runner Sir John Walker is to become Auckland's ambassador in a new regional hierarchy unveiled on Thursday.

Incoming mayor Len Brown says the former athlete is a true legend and will help unite the region, as well as represent it overseas.

Mr Brown has allocated roles to all 20 councillors in a political and geographical balancing act for the new council.

The new political structure for the super council comprises four major committees headed by experienced politicians Mike Lee, Penny Webster, Ann Hartley and Mr Brown.

All of the 20 councillors have been given roles chairing either a smaller committee, a forum or an advisory board.

The council formally takes office on Monday, which will be marked by a dawn ceremony in Aotea Square, followed by the first official meeting at the Auckland Town Hall on Monday evening.

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