Tauranga Mayor Tenby Powell has been diagnosed with prostate cancer.

In a post on Facebook this morning, Powell says he will be taking leave following an operation in late November.

"I'm going to be at work for the next three weeks pre an operation in late November, then disappear for a while and, post surgery, get physically and mentally fit. Not that I'm not mentally fit - I am - but I'm a physical wreck at the moment, for me anyway."

Powell will be taking leave from his role from November 20 and will undergo surgery to address recently-diagnosed prostate cancer.

In the post, Powell says this has made him stop, listen and remember what is truly important.

"As the saying goes, 'Man plans; God laughs”. The plans I had didn't include cancer, surgery and a fight back to good health. But it's fair to say, I've had a hunch over the past few months that's where it might be heading.

"I appreciate some people are not sure what to do at times like this. Some want to reach out, some like to offer help and give advice, some are afraid they will say the wrong thing. My suggestion is just do whatever makes you feel best.

"I won't be responding to much just now and I ask for your patience and understanding. I also ask that you give my family space and show them kindness as we work though this together.

"I'm positively focused on my present circumstances being exactly that - a moment in time, not an end state in and of itself. As Buddha said, 'The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn the past, worry about the future, or anticipate troubles - just live in the present."

"Thanks for all your support during 2020 - it's been a tough year for many and I'm very proud of how many of us have worked well together for the future of Tauranga."

Subject to the success of the procedure and a positive recovery pathway, Powell intends to resume his duties as early as possible in 2021.

'During my absence, I will be asking Deputy Mayor Tina Salisbury to take over my responsibilities.

'I know she will have the support of councillors, the Chief Executive and the Executive team, and I have every confidence that she will fulfil those responsibilities admirably.

'Although only recently promoted to the role, Tina has already earned the respect of many stakeholders, organisations and individuals across our community.

"As Deputy Mayor, she has been actively involved in my schedule of meetings, consultations and strategic planning, so it will be an easy transition for her to assume the Mayoralty in an acting capacity. I have no doubt that the relationships and progress we are making for the city will continue, without losing any momentum..

'I remain fully committed to my role through until my leave period commences and look forward to taking up the reins again as quickly as possible next year, and to participating in the preparation of a progressive and transformational 2021-31 long-term plan, which will set the foundations for our city's future.”