Column by Porirua Mayor, Anita Baker
With the election period concluded and after the result of special votes I want to express my deep gratitude to the people of Porirua for the opportunity to serve as your mayor once again. And even if you didn’t vote for me, but still took the time to return your ballot papers, thank you for participating in the democratic process at a time when many are opting out.
It was noteworthy this year that of the five mayors in the Wellington region, only myself and Janet Holborow from Kāpiti are returning after this election. We have new mayors from the Hutt, Wellington, and Upper Hutt, Ken Laban, Andrew Little, and Peri Zee respectively (as well as three brand-new mayors from the Wairarapa). I look forward to working with them all and benefiting from their fresh ideas.
Beyond electing our mayor and council, there were two important referendum questions included on the ballot papers this year. The results were instructive and uplifting in what they say about us as a community. On the question of Māori wards, about 69 percent of voters said “Yes” to keeping them, one of the strongest endorsements in the country. That’s a clear reflection of our values as a community: inclusion, representation, and genuine partnership.
On the second question, greater regional cooperation, a strong majority of about 58 percent also supported exploring closer ties with our neighboring councils, and possibly some form of amalgamation in the future. That shows people are open to practical collaboration on shared issues like transport, housing, and infrastructure.
I’d also like to note with gratitude the departure of two former colleagues, Tracey Johnson and Moze Galo, and welcome Hemi Fermanis and Moira Lawler on to the council. Once we’re all sworn in, the task ahead of us remains the same: to deliver on the priorities that matter to Porirua.
Thank you once again for your trust and participation. Let’s get on with the work ahead.