Wellington Mayor Andrew Little’s Wealthy Backers Exposed

The financial backers of Wellington’s newly elected mayor, Andrew Little, have been unveiled, highlighting a group of the city’s most affluent and influential figures. Electoral returns released today indicate that Little’s campaign was significantly supported by former politicians from both the Labour and National parties, as well as a prominent property developer, an art collector, and various unions nationwide.

Among the notable contributions, former National Party minister Chris Finlayson donated $2,000 to Little’s campaign. Additionally, former Labour Party minister and diplomat Dame Annette King and her husband contributed $2,500. The multimillionaire developer Ian Cassels, associated with the Wellington Company, provided a substantial $5,000. Former city councillor and art patron Chris Parkin also supported Little with a donation of $2,500.

Concerns Raised Over Ray Chung’s Funding Disclosure

In contrast, questions have arisen regarding the funding practices of Ray Chung, who ran an unsuccessful campaign for mayor under the banner of Independent Together. The electoral officer has raised concerns about how Chung’s campaign group categorised and disclosed its donors. This scrutiny highlights the importance of transparency in political financing, particularly in a city facing significant public interest in its governance.

The implications of these financial disclosures could influence public perception and trust in the newly elected mayor’s administration. As Wellington navigates its political landscape, the scrutiny of campaign financing remains a critical issue for both elected officials and constituents alike.