Auckland Mayor’s Chief of Staff Resigns Amid Financial Scrutiny

Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown‘s chief of staff, Jaswant Singh, has resigned from his position following a review into his financial disclosures. Singh, known as Jazz Singh, faced scrutiny for not declaring that his property company, Traxx Investments, was in liquidation, with debts amounting to $560,000 owed to Inland Revenue.

The resignation was confirmed on October 3, 2023, by Phil Wilson, Chief Executive of Auckland Council. Singh had been on leave during the investigation into Traxx Investments, where he is listed as the sole director. Wilson stated that while the investigation found no evidence of impropriety or conflicts of interest related to Singh’s work responsibilities, both parties agreed it was best for Singh to step aside from the role.

In his statement, Wilson emphasized the importance of maintaining focus in the mayor’s office during the final three months of the electoral term. “Stepping aside from the Chief of Staff role will prevent any further distractions for this office,” he said. “Jazz has worked for Auckland Council for 14 years and has delivered significant contributions to our organization and the city of Auckland.”

Singh’s new role within Auckland Council has been confirmed; he will now serve as the project lead for executive projects in Wilson’s office. This transition aims to ensure continuity in the ongoing projects he has been involved with.

Tamsyn Matchett has been appointed as the acting chief of staff for the mayor. Wilson acknowledged that Singh should have disclosed the potential liquidation of his company to both the mayor and himself, underscoring the need for transparency in public service.

Mayor Brown expressed disappointment regarding Singh’s departure but acknowledged the necessity of the decision. “Jazz has been an extremely effective chief of staff who has offered good counsel and provided strong leadership in our office,” Brown remarked. He specifically noted Singh’s contributions to establishing the Auckland Future Fund as a significant achievement.

As the situation unfolds, RNZ has reached out to Singh for further comments regarding his resignation and new role.