Upper Hutt City Council’s newly elected members were formally sworn in yesterday at the Inaugural Council Meeting, held at Te Kupenga o Rongomai Maidstone Sports Hub.

Mayor Peri Zee leads the new-look Council and has confirmed the appointment of Corey White as Deputy Mayor.

“I’m excited to announce that Corey White will serve as your Deputy Mayor,” says Mayor Zee.

“Many will know Corey from his role as Deputy Principal at Silverstream School or from the sports field. He’s an outstanding community leader who is passionate about our city and its people.

“Corey brings strong governance experience and has been quietly instrumental in building great teams and organisations.

“I’m confident my team of elected members, with the support of our Upper Hutt City Council staff, can deliver the change our community called for this election.”

The new Council represents a blend of continuity and fresh perspectives. Mayor Zee acknowledged the contributions of her predecessor, Wayne Guppy, and former councillors for their dedicated service to the city.

“This is the start of a new chapter for Upper Hutt,” she says.

“We’re building on strong foundations while embracing new ways of doing things. Our focus will be on delivering public value, transparency and keeping the community at the heart of all we do.”

Chief Executive Geoff Swainson formally welcomed the elected members, saying the occasion marks an important moment of partnership between governance and staff.

“On behalf of all Council staff, I extend a very warm welcome to Mayor Zee, Deputy Mayor White, and our councillors,” says Swainson.

“This is a crucial role in public service. The decisions made by this Council directly shape the lives of our community.

By working together, setting clear direction, and focusing on shared outcomes, we can continue to build a vibrant and resilient Upper Hutt.”

Elected Members of Upper Hutt City Council

Mayor: Peri Zee

Deputy Mayor: Corey White

Councillors: Emma Holderness · Tracey Ultra · Angela McLeod · Dave Wheeler · Hellen Swales · Bill Hammond · Daniel Welch · Matt Carey · Gurpreet Dhillon

Source: Upper Hutt City Council

31/10/25