Wayne Guppy. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone
Wayne Guppy says he is "a bit disappointed" that his time as Upper Hutt's Mayor has come to a close after 24 years.
Guppy was vying for his ninth term in the role at this year's local body elections but has been likely unseated by Peri Zee, an urban planner and transport adviser.
He told Midday Report: "That's the democratic process."
There were five other candidates going for the role, which meant it would likely be his biggest challenge for the leadership, Guppy said.
"They did put up a good campaign."
He said that some decisions made during the council term have likely been remembered by voters.
"I had to make some tough calls and sometimes people don't like that, and I'm sure that had some bearing on the outcome."
Upper Hutt City Council approved 15.78 percent average rates rise this year which some voters RNZ spoke to criticised.
Guppy said that his biggest disappointment was that over the past 24 years leaders in the Wellington region have not been united.
He said there had been moments where the cities in the region worked together, but then leaders would change and fractions would appear.
The 71-year-old said that his wife would like him to retire but that there was "always plenty to do".
He noted there would now be a lot more extra time to catch up with his daughter who lived in Auckland and Melbourne.
Zee said she was excited to be at the helm for a "new chapter" for Upper Hutt.
"Thank you to everyone who has put their trust in me," she said.
"The people have, it seems, voted for change, and I'm ready to be the mayor that the people have asked for."
Zee's main priority was revitalising the city centre, which she said her community clearly wanted.
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