“Wellington mayor Tory Whanau has made a gracious and tough personal decision to step down from challenging the mayoralty this year.

Clearly, as she has said, this is because Andrew Little has entered the race to become mayor of Wellington.

When Andrew Little announced his intention to stand for the mayoralty, I wrote, “Finally I would like to give some advice to Tory. You have given it your best shot. You have much more to give. Be gracious. Stand down. You have a great future ahead, somewhere else.”

I have worked alongside and served with six mayors during my time as the longest serving city councillor. The mayoralty of Wellington is often underestimated. It is a tough gig.

It will be great to have the stability, certainty and competence that Andrew Little brings, along with an inclusive approach to embrace all Wellingtonians.

Tory Whanau has made an excellent call and will now be able to contribute the unique knowledge and skill she has gained to go forward.

I wish her well.”

Helene Ritchie

A former deputy mayor of Wellington 

O274488669

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