Wellington City Council Mayor-elect, Andrew Little, has today announced his pick for Deputy Mayor alongside his structure for Council committees for the new 2025-28 triennium.
Councillor Little said a key feature of the new structure will be for all appointments to be 18 months.
“When I campaigned for Mayor I pledged to be a leader for all of Wellington, to build a resilient and accountable team of councillors, and to work across the range of views and positions held by elected members,” he said.
“Today I make good on that pledge. In deciding the new structure for Council committees and appointments I have signalled my resolve to get the best out of the new Wellington City Council. I want to incentivise good performance for the sole benefit of Wellington City and all who live here.
“Ben McNulty will be the new Deputy Mayor for Wellington City. He is a strong local councillor for Takapū / Northern Ward and was the top-polling councillor in Wellington City at the recent local body elections.”
Cr Little said he has been impressed with Cr McNulty’s grasp of the important issues facing Wellington, such as housing affordability, transport and community facilities.
“Crucially, he was among councillors who consistently advocated for public transparency, including issues like the sale of the airport shares.”
Cr McNulty says he was excited for the opportunity to help lead the Capital during challenging times.
“I am grateful for the trust and faith that Andrew Little has placed in me. The challenge in front of this Council is huge. Public trust must be restored, rates need to be brought under control and Wellington needs to grow out of its current malaise,” he said.
“I’ll be throwing absolutely everything I’ve got into this role to ensure we build a cohesive team and positive council culture where all voices are heard.”
The Mayor-elect will be introducing 18-month appointments for all key roles, including the Deputy Mayor.
“I am determined that this Council will be transparent and accountable to the people of Wellington.”
“One mechanism to achieve this is to introduce 18-month appointments for all key roles so Councillors can remain sharply focused on providing the best service for residents and what’s best for the growth of our city.
“We have a lot of talent around the Council table and it is important that there are opportunities for councillors to grow and flourish,” said Cr Little.
Both the Mayor and Deputy Mayor will be presented with their respective chains at an official inauguration ceremony on Thursday 30 October.
