Wellington's new deputy mayor will be Ben McNulty.
McNulty ran as a Labour candidate alongside mayor-elect Andrew Little in the 2025 local body election.
He was first elected to council in 2022 and represents the Takapu/Northen Ward.
Deputy Mayor-elect Ben McNulty says he is excited for the opportunity to help lead the Capital during challenging times.
"I am grateful for the trust and faith that Andrew Little has placed in me. The challenge in front of this Council is huge. Public trust must be restored, rates need to be brought under control and Wellington needs to grow out of its current malaise.
"I'll be throwing absolutely everything I've got into this role to ensure we build a cohesive team and positive council culture where all voices are heard.
McNulty will be in the role for half the term, with a new person to step in for the remainder.
Ben McNulty ran as a Labour candidate alongside mayor-elect Andrew Little in the local elections. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone
Little said a key new feature would be that all appointments would be for 18 months.
"When I campaigned for Mayor I pledged to be a leader for all of Wellington, to build a resilient and accountable team of councillors, and to work across the range of views and positions held by elected members," Little said.
"Today I make good on that pledge. In deciding the new structure for Council committees and appointments I have signalled my resolve to get the best out of the new Wellington City Council. I want to incentivise good performance for the sole benefit of Wellington City and all who live here.
"I am determined that this Council will be transparent and accountable to the people of Wellington.
"One mechanism to achieve this is to introduce 18-month appointments for all key roles so Councillors can remain sharply focused on providing the best service for residents and what's best for the growth of our city.
"We have a lot of talent around the Council table and it is important that there are opportunities for councillors to grow and flourish."
Both the Mayor and Deputy Mayor will be presented with their respective chains at an official inauguration ceremony on Thursday 30 October.
McNulty was first elected to Council in 2022. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone
Who is McNulty?
Ben McNulty was first elected to Council in 2022 and re-elected in 2025 as one of three councillors representing the Takapū / Northern Ward.
During the 2022-2025 term he served as the Deputy Chair of the Koata Hātepe | Regulatory Processes Committee, an external board appointee to Wheako Pōneke | Experience Wellington and the Tawa Community Board.
Prior to council, Ben spent over a decade working in financial services through insurance broking, funds management and marketing as well as running a photography business.
He currently lives in Johnsonville with his wife and two young children.
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