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FROM TOWN BOARD TO BOROUGH
COUNCIL: LOCAL GOVERNMENT IN ELLERSLIE
The Ellerslie Borough Council
 Increased
residential development and economic growth culminated in a movement to obtain
borough status for the town. The Borough of Ellerslie was formally declared on
the 1st April 1938. A crest created to symbolise the borough was composed of
a runner to represent its sporting history, a kiwi depicting the nation, a factory
symbolizing industrial growth, and a tree depicting the environment. Over ensuing
decades many respected and prominent residents served the community as Mayor,
including Horace White (1938-1956), Lord Elsmere (1956-1962), A. T. Bell (1962-1974),
W. Brewster (1974-1980), and W. Cann (1980-1981).
In April 1988 the borough celebrated its golden jubilee with a gala day, a thanksgiving
service, market days, and a ball. Leon Leicester presided as Mayor, elected to
office in 1981 after residing in Ellerslie for more than 40 years. Leon is remembered
for his approachable nature and kindness, particularly in the care of the elderly.
In 1988 resident Jim Shields reported: 'If Leon Leicester isn't helping with
Communicare (a national organisation for the elderly and disabled) he's often
found assisting people above and beyond the call of duty … the mayor is
often called out to help in situations which have nothing to do with his formal
duties as mayor'. Leon also took a leading role in the collection of old documents,
photos, and personal accounts to preserve the story of the town.
Leon was to be the last mayor of Ellerslie. The Borough of Ellerslie officially
came to an end in 1989 when the boundaries of Auckland City were enlarged to
incorporate numerous local bodies in the region. Since then the Maungakiekie
Community Board has served the community and allowed representation of its specific
interests and concerns at a local government level.
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