Kathleen Filo enters Porirua mayoral race

Kathleen Filo standing outdoors, smiling, with greenery in the background.
Kathleen Filo will challenge incumbent mayor Anita Baker in the 2025 Porirua local election, citing affordability and accountability as key campaign issues.

Mayor of Porirua City

Onepoto ward councillor Kathleen Filo has confirmed she will stand for mayor in Porirua’s 2025 local elections, joining incumbent Anita Baker in the contest.

Filo, elected in 2022, said her campaign will focus on affordability, accountability, and improving services while easing pressure on ratepayers.

“Our community deserves leadership that puts people first,” she said. “We can make Porirua more affordable without compromising on what matters.”

She also highlighted concerns about the new regional water entity replacing Wellington Water, calling for stronger oversight and local input.

Filo is the daughter of former Porirua deputy mayor Liz Kelly and says her deep roots in the city drive her commitment to positive change.

“This campaign is about securing a thriving future for all our whānau” says Filo.

Local election day is 11 October, with nominations closing at midday on 1 August.