Launceston's longest-serving mayor announces he will not run in upcoming local government elections

After serving 15 years as mayor of the city, Albert Van Zetten has decided to call it a day.

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Appearing with his wife Lyndle at Riverbend Park today, Cr Van Zetten thanked god as well as the people of Launceston who supported and voted for him throughout six successive elections.

"For me, it's been an absolute honour and a privilege to serve the great people of this city, which is the best city in Tasmania and Australia," he said.

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"One thing I've never had in my life - and I'm well over 60 - is long-service leave, and in this role, even when you're on leave, you don't really get a break from the public or the media, so I'm going to have some time away to do what I want to do, spend time with my family, and enjoy myself."

Cr Van Zetten encouraged anyone who thought they could do a good job in the position to apply, however, he said deputy mayor Danny Gibson was "obviously suitable" for the role, despite there being no mention of his intent to run as mayor as of yet.

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