Goff’s off – mayor bows out

‘‘It’s over and out from me,’’ said Phil Goff as he ended a 41-year political career in the final meeting of the fourth Auckland Council, which he has led for the past two terms.

Goff, his deputy Bill Cashmore and councillor Cathy Casey all bowed out ahead of the October 8 election, with two-term-Manukau councillor Efeso Collins hoping to return as mayor.

‘‘It’s been a privilege. I’ll be watching from the sidelines and trying not to be [Sesame Street character] Oscar the Grouch, and will do my very best not to make any comments about the incoming council – but don’t hold me to that,’’ he told councillors and staff.

In a valedictory speech Goff spoke of a function he attended for World War II bomber crew. ‘‘ We owe an incredible amount to those who’ve gone before, and those who’ve made sacrifices on our behalf – we have an obligation to do what we can, standing on their shoulders, tomake our future better.’’

In a nod to today’s release of the council annual report, Goff praised the management of the city’s finances.