Local elections 2025: Richard McGrath new Napier Mayor, ousts Kirsten Wise

Richard McGrath is the new Mayor of Napier. Photo / NZME

Richard McGrath has ousted Kirsten Wise to become Mayor of Napier.

With roughly 85% of the vote counted on Saturday, McGrath had 8781 votes, Wise had 5508 votes and Nigel Simpson was third with 3332.

Progress results include votes received up until yesterday evening.

They do not include special votes or votes received this morning.

Preliminary results will be announced on Monday. They include votes received today, but special votes are still not included.

Final results and official results include all votes, including special votes. They will be released by Friday October 17.

As of Friday afternoon, 38.7% of a total of 46,278 eligible voters had voted in Napier, compared to the final count of 39.55% in 2022.

Ahuriri General Ward (3 vacancies)

Roger Brownlie, Keith Price, and Sally Crown were leading on Saturday afternoon.

Napier Central General Ward (3 vacancies)

Greg Mawson, Craig Morley and Te Kira Lawrence are leading. McGrath is withdrawn, given his elevation to Mayor.

Taradale General Ward (3 vacancies)

Graeme Taylor, Ronda Chrystal, and Nigel Simpson are leading.

Te Whanga Māori Ward (2 vacancies)

Shyann Raihania and Whare Isaac-Sharland are leading.

Māori Ward Poll

• Vote to remove Māori Ward – 10,067.
• Vote to keep Māori Ward – 7,162.

LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.