After yesterday's news that Cornwall Council’s chief executive Kevin Lavery could be leaving to work in New Zealand, he has said he has yet to make up his mind.

According to a New Zealand newspaper, Mr Lavery will become chief executive of Wellington City Council.

Described by the Dominion Post as “an Englishman with a reputation for cost-cutting,” Mr Lavery is reported to have won the role in a 9-6 vote against long-term incumbent Garry Poole.

The newspaper reports: “In a closed-door meeting on Wednesday night, councillors spent three hours debating the appointment of Kevin Lavery, who will receive a salary of $420,000. Councillors interviewed four people for the position on Monday, after deciding in August to advertise the position.”

A spokesman from Cornwall Council said: "The Chief Executive of Cornwall Council Kevin Lavery has confirmed that he has been offered the post of Chief Executive at Wellington City Council but says that he has not yet made a decision on whether to take the role. "

Mr Lavery said: “I have enjoyed my time as the Chief Executive of Cornwall Council and will be sorry to leave the authority and Cornwall. I now need to consider the terms of the offer very carefully and discuss this with my family before making a final decision”.

“I will be spending the next few days considering this offer and hope to make an announcement early next week.