I was sad to hear of the passing of Chris Lux, who served as District Mayor from 1998 to 2004.
Many will remember his pride in the district and his support for local autonomy. Longtime residents will also fondly recall the dedication of his wife, Kay who regularly supported community activities alongside Mayor Lux.
Chris Lux’s experience leading the district was characterised by strength and advocacy. He led the district through the civil defence response to the devastating 2002 Weather Bomb, railed against the Resource Management Act, and supported a ‘one peninsula’ approach to planning and infrastructure.
Outside local government, Chris Lux was a true ambassador for the beaches, bush and lush farmland around his home in Tuateawa, where Kay’s family had deep ties. That connection to the land, his can-do approach, and his love of a good yarn made Chris a natural in real estate.
Many people living in the district today will remember him for his sales prowess, but he never stepped away from governance and leadership, remaining involved in numerous local boards and committees. As recently as 2022, TCDC awarded Chris Lux a Community Service Award in recognition of his contribution.
On behalf of the elected members of the Thames Coromandel District, we remember Chris Lux for his dedicated service, and send our heartfelt sympathies to his family, friends and loved ones.
Another tribute:
“The Coromandel Heritage Trust would like to acknowledge that assisting greatly in the establishment of The Treasury Heritage Research Centre and Archive this is just one of many things Chris Lux did in his time as TCDC Mayor. We appreciated his support for the heritage sector. Our thoughts are with his family at this time.”
