The Wellington Ratepayers’ Alliance is calling out the $36,599 cost of Wellington City Council’s swearing-in event, including $3250 for “pōwhiri cultural services/entertainment” and $3500 on “plant hire” which Mayor Andrew Little has refused to comment on.

Wellington Ratepayers’ Alliance Spokesman, James Ross, said:

“Ratepayers voted for a mayor who promised to get “a firmer grip on council spending to keep rates down.” Yet before they’ve gotten into the chamber, tens of thousands have already been spent on a victory party.”

“Wellingtonians are sick of seeing their money spent on non essentials. While there’s much bigger fish to fry like the Golden Mile and Town Hall spend-ups, this certainly doesn’t paint the picture of a strong start.”

“With rates spiralling 47 percent on average over the last three years and people leaving the city in droves, Wellington now needs a low cost, disciplined council that prioritises growing the city rather than prioritising ways to spend money on itself.”