Porirua’s new council term officially began with a swearing-in ceremony at Pātaka on 25 November, bringing together fresh faces and returning members for the 2025 to 2028 triennium.
The ceremony marked the formal induction of councillors Kylie Wihapi, Nathan Waddle, Ross Leggett, Kathleen Filo, Geoff Hayward, Hemi Fermanis, Moira Lawler, Josh Trlin, Mike Duncan and Izzy Ford, alongside Mayor Anita Baker. The event provided a moment of civic tradition before the real work begins around the council table.
Following the ceremony, Mayor Anita Baker delivered her inaugural address, setting a collaborative and realistic tone for the term ahead.
Acknowledging a delayed start due to a judicial recount of the Māori ward vote, Baker praised the integrity of the process and formally welcomed new councillors Hemi Fermanis and Moira Lawler, describing them as “deeply grounded in community” with a “clear commitment to serving Porirua.”
She also reflected on the importance of civic participation, noting declining voter turnout across the city and the country. “Our community will only engage if they believe their council is listening, explaining its decisions clearly, and operating transparently. That is a collective responsibility,” she said.
The city’s strong vote to retain the Māori ward and to support greater regional cooperation were described as clear signals for inclusive and joined-up governance. Baker said she was encouraged by early signs of constructive intent from Wellington’s new leadership.
Turning to the challenges ahead, Baker highlighted pressures on household budgets and the major shift represented by the transition of water services to Tiaki Wai. “This restructures our budgets on a scale none of us have dealt with before,” she said, warning that while Council’s rates portion may drop on paper, residents would still feel increases due to new water charges.
She welcomed the Government’s announcement of sweeping reforms to local government, calling it the most significant since 1989, and pledged to advocate for local voices during that process.
Baker thanked Chief Executive Wendy Walker and staff across all departments for their service, emphasising the role of expert advice and delivery in supporting elected members.
“If there is one principle I want to underline tonight, it is teamwork,” she said. “We won’t always agree, but we can commit to working respectfully, constructively, and with the shared purpose of serving this city well.”
Baker closed with a reminder of Porirua’s unique spirit and strength. “Serving a place like this isn’t a burden; it’s an honour and a privilege. The work ahead won’t always be easy, but it will always be worth it, because Porirua is worth it, and so are the people who live here.”