Manukau mayor Len Brown leaves hospital

Manukau mayor Len Brown has been discharged from hospital and is continuing to recuperate from heart bypass surgery at home.

“I’m so pleased to be back in familiar surroundings with my family around me,” Mr Brown says.

“My path to recovery had a setback a few weeks ago but I’m back on track now.

“I realise that I’m very fortunate to have come through to this point and I’m very grateful to many people.

“I want to thank the medical staff at Auckland Hospital and Middlemore Hospital as well as those who assisted me immediately after my heart attack including St John Ambulance personnel.

“I’ve also had tremendous support from my family, friends and the Manukau City Council.

“The community support and prayers have been hugely humbling and I wish to convey my love and regards to all.

“At this stage I’m not sure exactly when I’ll be able to resume my mayoral duties, but I’m grateful the council has granted me leave of absence.

“The council is in good hands with Gary Troup at the helm as acting mayor.

“I’d like to thank councillors for their support of Gary and for taking on extra duties while I have been away.

“And I’m grateful to council officers for their support of Gary and for making sure all the various activities of the council keep moving along.

“I know my wife Shan joins me in thanking everyone who has helped out in any way.

Note to editors:

Len Brown will not be conducting any media interviews for at least the next 10 days.

During the school holidays he will be recuperating at home and spending time with his wife, daughters and family.

All media enquiries are to be directed to the council.

Interviews with Mr Brown can be progressively scheduled through the council’s communications unit after the school holidays.

Media wishing to interview Mr Brown should contact council communications.

There will be no exclusive interviews given.

Interviews will be restricted to covering Len’s illness, recovery and recuperation.

Until Mr Brown returns to work, Acting Mayor Gary Troup will continue to be the spokesperson for the council.