News
October 30, 2025
New Wellington Mayor Andrew Little proposes bed tax, Golden Mile shake up, ahead of swearing in
Little will be officially sworn in today, and is already working on major new initiatives.
**Wellington Poised for Change: Mayor Andrew Little Announces Bold Plans**
Wellington is on the cusp of significant change as newly elected Mayor Andrew Little prepares to be sworn in today. Even before officially taking office, Little has signaled his intent to aggressively tackle key issues facing the capital, unveiling proposals for a bed tax and a revitalization of the Golden Mile.
The proposed bed tax, a levy on overnight stays in hotels and other accommodation providers, is designed to generate revenue for the city. Little argues that this additional income stream is crucial for funding essential services and infrastructure improvements that benefit both residents and visitors alike. The exact details of the tax, including the rate and how the revenue will be allocated, are still being developed, but Little has emphasized the need for a fair and transparent system. He believes it will allow Wellington to better manage the pressures of tourism while ensuring visitors contribute to the upkeep of the city they enjoy.
Alongside the bed tax proposal, Little is also setting his sights on revitalizing the Golden Mile, Wellington's central shopping and business district. The Golden Mile, encompassing Lambton Quay, Willis Street, Manners Street, and Courtenay Place, is a vital artery for the city, but has faced challenges in recent years with changing retail trends and increased competition from online shopping.
While specific plans for the Golden Mile are still under wraps, Little has indicated a desire to create a more vibrant and pedestrian-friendly environment. This could involve initiatives such as pedestrianizing certain sections, improving streetscapes, attracting new businesses, and hosting more public events. He envisions a Golden Mile that not only caters to shoppers but also serves as a hub for arts, culture, and entertainment, drawing people into the city center and boosting the local economy.
These early initiatives demonstrate Little's commitment to proactive leadership and his determination to address the pressing issues facing Wellington. While the details of both the bed tax and the Golden Mile revitalization are still being worked out, these announcements signal a clear direction for the city under its new mayor. Residents and businesses alike will be watching closely as Little begins his term and works to translate these ambitious plans into reality. His swearing-in ceremony today marks the beginning of what promises to be a period of significant change and development for Wellington.
Wellington is on the cusp of significant change as newly elected Mayor Andrew Little prepares to be sworn in today. Even before officially taking office, Little has signaled his intent to aggressively tackle key issues facing the capital, unveiling proposals for a bed tax and a revitalization of the Golden Mile.
The proposed bed tax, a levy on overnight stays in hotels and other accommodation providers, is designed to generate revenue for the city. Little argues that this additional income stream is crucial for funding essential services and infrastructure improvements that benefit both residents and visitors alike. The exact details of the tax, including the rate and how the revenue will be allocated, are still being developed, but Little has emphasized the need for a fair and transparent system. He believes it will allow Wellington to better manage the pressures of tourism while ensuring visitors contribute to the upkeep of the city they enjoy.
Alongside the bed tax proposal, Little is also setting his sights on revitalizing the Golden Mile, Wellington's central shopping and business district. The Golden Mile, encompassing Lambton Quay, Willis Street, Manners Street, and Courtenay Place, is a vital artery for the city, but has faced challenges in recent years with changing retail trends and increased competition from online shopping.
While specific plans for the Golden Mile are still under wraps, Little has indicated a desire to create a more vibrant and pedestrian-friendly environment. This could involve initiatives such as pedestrianizing certain sections, improving streetscapes, attracting new businesses, and hosting more public events. He envisions a Golden Mile that not only caters to shoppers but also serves as a hub for arts, culture, and entertainment, drawing people into the city center and boosting the local economy.
These early initiatives demonstrate Little's commitment to proactive leadership and his determination to address the pressing issues facing Wellington. While the details of both the bed tax and the Golden Mile revitalization are still being worked out, these announcements signal a clear direction for the city under its new mayor. Residents and businesses alike will be watching closely as Little begins his term and works to translate these ambitious plans into reality. His swearing-in ceremony today marks the beginning of what promises to be a period of significant change and development for Wellington.
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