Palmerston North officials were thrown into chaos yesterday after the Mayor appeared to vanish during a council meeting, only for witnesses to later realise he had simply placed both hands over his face.
The alarming incident reportedly began during a routine discussion about roadworks, rates, and whether anyone in the room could confidently explain what a “strategic growth framework” actually does.
According to councillors present, the Mayor leaned back, sighed deeply, and covered his eyes with both hands. Within seconds, panic spread through the chamber.
“At first we thought he was just stressed,” one councillor said. “Then someone whispered, ‘Where did he go?’ and suddenly everyone realised we couldn’t technically see him anymore.”
Police were called shortly after, with officers arriving at the council building to investigate what was initially described as “a possible mayoral disappearance.”
A spokesperson said the situation was treated seriously.
“We received reports that the Mayor was present one moment and gone the next,” the spokesperson said. “Upon arrival, officers found a man matching his description seated exactly where he had last been seen, although his face was not visible. After careful assessment, we determined this was likely a game of peekaboo.”
The incident caused brief disruption to council proceedings, with several agenda items delayed while staff attempted to confirm whether a mayor still legally counts as present if he cannot be seen by the public.
One council staffer said the confusion was understandable.
“Local government is already hard enough to follow,” they said. “Once elected officials start disappearing behind their own hands, it becomes almost impossible for residents to know what is happening.”
Members of the public gallery were reportedly less surprised.
“To be honest, this is the most transparent the council has been in weeks,” one attendee said.
The Mayor later reappeared after removing his hands from his face, though the return was met with mixed reactions. Some councillors expressed relief, while others reportedly asked whether the meeting could continue with him still technically missing.
Experts say the event has raised important questions about leadership visibility, public accountability, and whether Palmerston North is ready for advanced childhood games being introduced into formal civic life.
Council has since confirmed it will review its meeting procedures to include a new rule requiring elected officials to remain “reasonably visible” during discussions, except during sneezes, facepalms, or moments of extreme budget-related despair.
Police have closed the case, stating that no foul play was found, although they have advised the Mayor not to attempt “got your nose” during public consultation.