Council chief executive Jim Harland made the comments during a joint DCC-Otago Regional Council candidates information evening in Dunedin last night, which attracted an audience of 20 people.
Mr Harland and ORC chief executive Graeme Martin took turns to outline the roles and responsibilities of councillors elected to either the city or regional council, before answering questions.
Mr Harland said the role of a city councillor was a rewarding one, but warned it was a time-consuming commitment that could also prove to be a source of friction.
"There's plenty of criticism as well. Everyone has got an opinion on what we do."
Mr Martin said the city council's role was more about "getting things done", while the regional council focused on shaping the future.
Nominations for local body elections opened on July 23 and close on August 20, with election day on October 9.
