Helene Ritchie - Mayor
On 23 August 2007 the following announcement was issued:
Helene Ritchie to Stand for Mayoralty
Top polling Wellington City Councillor and the city's first woman deputy mayor, Helene Ritchie, announced today she is standing for the mayoralty.
"It's time for a change at City Hall," she said.
Wellington's longest-serving councillor, Cr Ritchie said: "I am proud of this City which I have helped create. I feel very privileged to have been able to do so but, without the people of Wellington, this could not have happened. I am seeking their endorsement again this October.
"There are really only two people in this mayoral race."
Although a member of the Labour Party, Cr Ritchie will be standing as an Independent.
"I believe that the Mayor must be inclusive, independent, open and fair. The current Prendergast-Shaw administration has failed to deliver on those 'must-have' qualities, favouring self-interest and self-promotion instead."
Cr Ritchie said the council needed a change in leadership and a change in style and she was the right woman for the job.
"I hope voters feel the same way."
Councillor Ritchie's focus has been the waterfront and health. She will detail her key priorities after the launch of the campaign in September.
Authorised by Helene Ritchie Wgtn City Council 101 Wakefield St. heleneritchie@clear.net.nz