New Council welcomed and sworn in
Published on 12 November 2025
Mayor Ken Couper addresses the audience at the swearing-in ceremony at Forum North.
We officially welcomed our newly elected Mayor and Councillors at a swearing-in ceremony held at Forum North on Wednesday 5 November 2025.
The event marked the beginning of the 2025 to 2028 triennium and was attended by elected members, whānau, community leaders and invited guests.
The ceremony followed a pōwhiri held at Terenga Parāoa Marae on Wednesday 29 October 2025, where elected members were formally welcomed and acknowledged by mana whenua.
Mayor Couper reflected on the significance of both occasions and the responsibility entrusted to the new Council.
"At the end of this new triennium, our ability to hold the respect of the community will depend on how we have worked together, how we have overcome our differences and how each of us has demonstrated our commitment to outcomes that answer the challenges the community sets us."
Mayor Couper outlined his priorities, centred on building a stronger, more resilient Whangārei.
"We need to grow the local economy after several years of challenging conditions and strengthen Tiriti-based relationships."
The importance of collaboration across Northland's councils was also highlighted, particularly as the region works together to establish a new water services entity.
Mayor Couper acknowledged the ongoing challenge of balancing growth and infrastructure needs with the need to keep rates affordable for residents.
"I speak for all of us when I say, we're here to serve our community, it's important that every voice is heard and valued, and we're committed to working together to achieve the best outcomes."