The preliminary results of the 2025 Wairoa District Council elections show that incumbent Mayor Craig Little has been re-elected for his fifth term.

The results show that Mayor Little received 1,563 votes, ahead of other mayoral candidates: Denise Eaglesome-Karekare (1,226 votes), Kurawari Panere (138 votes), and Camden Gaskin (84 votes).

In the General Ward, incumbent councillors Jeremy Harker and Roz Thomas were re-elected with 1199 and 825 votes respectively, and newly elected member Sara Bird, who received 676 votes.

In the Māori Ward, newly elected member Trevor Waikawa received 777 votes, followed by Benita Cairns (689) and Michelle Tahuri (519).

Wairoa Mayor Craig Little says he is honoured and grateful to be re-elected as Wairoa's Mayor.

Mayor Little acknowledged all those candidates who stood in this year's election.

"In particular, former deputy mayor Denise Eaglesome-Karekare has contributed so much to our town," Mayor Little said.

"There are many passionate, capable people in our community, and while there weren't enough positions for everyone, I value the energy and ideas you brought to the table."

Mayor Little also gave a big shout-out to Wairoa voters, with local voting numbers well ahead of the national returns, with Wairoa's preliminary returns at just over 53 percent - which is slightly up from the 2022 election.

"There is a lot of work ahead of us, and I am excited to serve our district, address our priorities, and build a brighter future together.

"As we all know, Wairoa is recovering from tough times, but I do feel that we have a real sense of enthusiasm in our community.

"I am committed to using my experience, relationships and proven leadership to support our community to thrive." 

The final results/Official Declaration are expected on Friday 17 October, if not before.

A breakdown of preliminary results is as follows:

Mayor (1)