Fauono Ken Laban, Mayor of Lower Hutt, has announced that Councillor Keri Brown will serve as Deputy Mayor for the 2025-2028 triennium.

"Keri brings significant experience and a genuine commitment to people," says Mayor Ken. "I’ve seen first-hand her steady leadership and the respect she’s earned from colleagues and our community. She knows how to bring people together and get things done, and I’m proud to have her alongside me as Deputy Mayor."

Councillor Brown, who was re-elected unopposed this term, has represented her community with dedication over the past six years. Her focus on collaboration, practical solutions and strong local relationships has made her a trusted voice around the Council table.

"It’s an honour to take on this role and to continue serving the city I love," says Cr Brown. "I’m looking forward to working closely with Mayor Ken and our councillors to deliver on our shared priorities - getting the basics right, supporting our communities, and building trust through action."

Mayor Ken says the appointment reflects his commitment to stability across the new Council. "Our residents have asked for a council that listens and delivers. Keri embodies that approach - grounded, capable, and deeply connected to the people we serve."

As well as announcing his Deputy, Mayor Ken has set out the new committee structure. This includes:

Connected Communities, Climate and Resilience Committee

- Cr Mitchell - Chair

- Cr Shaw - Deputy Chair

Policy and Performance Committee

- Cr Stallinger - Chair

- Cr Parkin - Deputy Chair

Infrastructure and Regulatory Committee

- Cr Simon Edwards - Chair

- Cr Lewis - Deputy Chair

District Licensing Committee

- Cr Dyer - Chair

- Cr Ravi - Deputy Chair

District Plan Subcommittee

- Cr Dyer - Chair

- Cr Puketapu - Deputy Chair

Strategy, Long Term and Annual Plan Subcommittee

- Mayor Laban - Chair

- Deputy Mayor Brown - Deputy Chair

Age and Accessibility Subcommittee

- Cr Barratt - Chair

- Cr Parkin - Deputy Chair

Hutt Valley Services Committee

- Cr Shaw - Chair in 2026 (alternate with UHCC)

The new Council and Community Boards will be formally sworn in at the Inaugural Council Meeting on Wednesday 29 October at 5.30pm in the Lower Hutt Town Hall.

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