NZ Local Elections 2025

Mayor of Napier

The mayor is the leader of the council. Their job is to promote a vision for the city and lead the development of the council’s plans, policies and budget. The mayor appoints the deputy mayor, establishes committees for particular topics, and appoints chairs for those committees. This is a first past the post (FPP) election, so you vote by ticking the name of your preferred candidate on your ballot paper. Compare the candidates and their policies to decide who to vote for in the Napier City Council mayoral election.

Candidates

Policies

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Richard McGrath

Richard McGrath

Commonsense change, needs before wants

Kirsten Wise

Kirsten Wise

Independent

Nigel Simpson

Nigel Simpson

Independent

Kirsten Wise

Independent

| Mayor of Napier

Kirsten Wise

Independent

| Mayor of Napier

Why I'm standing

I am a proven leader focusing on our communities needs now and also for future generations. I have led with a steady hand through challenging times – from the cyclone recovery to economic uncertainty – ensuring our community remains resilient and forward-moving. I am not here for short-term wins, I'm here to ensure our city continues to thrive for generations. Now more than ever we need stability, not disruption.

About me

I am Napier born and raised and passionate about our city. I am a qualified accountant with 34 years experience across a number of sectors including my own business Black & White Accounting. I have over 20 years governance experience including 12 years on council and 6 years as mayor.

My priorities
  1. Drive cost savings and efficiencies and find other sources of income to keep rates down.
  2. Maintain and build resilience in existing core assets and infrastructure.
  3. Support smart, sustainable housing growth, working with the government and community partners.
Current role

Mayor of Napier

Residence

Napier CBD

Age

51

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Why I'm standing

I am a proven leader focusing on our communities needs now and also for future generations. I have led with a steady hand through challenging times – from the cyclone recovery to economic uncertainty – ensuring our community remains resilient and forward-moving. I am not here for short-term wins, I'm here to ensure our city continues to thrive for generations. Now more than ever we need stability, not disruption.

About me

I am Napier born and raised and passionate about our city. I am a qualified accountant with 34 years experience across a number of sectors including my own business Black & White Accounting. I have over 20 years governance experience including 12 years on council and 6 years as mayor.

My priorities
  1. Drive cost savings and efficiencies and find other sources of income to keep rates down.
  2. Maintain and build resilience in existing core assets and infrastructure.
  3. Support smart, sustainable housing growth, working with the government and community partners.
Current role

Mayor of Napier

Residence

Napier CBD

Age

51

Connect via

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