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 single transferable vote (STV) election, so you vote by ranking the candidates on your ballot paper. Compare the candidates and their policies to decide who to vote for in the Wellington City Council mayoral election.
Explore the candidates in your area

Ray Chung
INDEPENDENT TOGETHER - Vote For IT

Karl Tiefenbacher
Independent

Joan Shi
Independent

Scott Caldwell
The Scoot Foundation

Diane Calvert
Not Affiliated

William Pennywize
Pennywize the Rewilding Clown

Alex Baker
Independent

Josh Harford
Aotearoa New Zealand Silly Hat Party

Rob Goulden
My Vision for the City 2050

Andrew Little
Labour

Kelvin Hastie
Independent

Donald McDonald
Mcdone waiting 2coming terms Passover
I'm standing for Mayor because Wellington needs serious leadership and real change this election. We face major challenges as a city, and many have lost faith in the council. This election gives us a chance to turn the page. My priority is to rebuild public trust in the council, get its finances under control and start the work of building a more affordable, more vibrant and more confident city.
I have proven experience leading organisations and delivering results for people. As a senior Cabinet Minister, union leader, and lawyer, I've spent my career bringing people together and finding solutions to complex challenges. I'm someone who listens, works constructively across political lines, and gets things done. I'm committed to being a Mayor for all of Wellington.
Don’t know who to vote for? Policy.nz is the complete guide to the 2025 local elections. Compare the candidates and policies to see where you stand.
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