Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker says there maybe an element of political point scoring behind divisions in the city council.
Councillor Chrissie Williams has resigned in protest at his behaviour, describing him as having a presidential style of running things.
Mr Parker told Morning Report that overall the council is doing a brilliant job in difficult circumstances.
He said the big picture is the important job of rebuilding the city and people have to put aside personal games and focus on the work - which the majority of councilors are doing.
Mr Parker said there can be an element of truth in the claims and he will make sure that councillors know where his door is.
