Fauono Ken Laban has become the first Pasifika person to be elected mayor in Aotearoa / New Zealand, winning the Hutt City mayoralty in this year's local body elections.

The long-time broadcaster and former police officer secured 8,704 votes, ahead of Brady Dyer on 6,974, Karen Morgan on 5,529, and Prabha Ravi on 3,608.

Mr Laban, who has also served as a councillor and regional representative in the Hutt Valley, is widely known for his advocacy on inclusion, youth opportunities, and community safety.

His sister, Luamanuvao Winnie Laban, was the first Pasifika woman elected to Aotearoa Parliament in 1999.

In a message to residents, Mr Laban said his election was a shared achievement for the people of Lower Hutt.

"It's both an honour and a privilege to have been elected your mayor," he said.

"This isn't just a win for me – it's a win for our community, for the people who love the Hutt, for those who believe in our collective potential as a city, and it's a win for the values that make our city special – our diversity, resilience and our sense of community."

Mr Laban said his focus as mayor will be on delivering practical outcomes and strengthening trust in local government.

"I'm humbled by the mandate from residents of the Hutt to deliver for them and grow confidence in our city's direction," he said.

"Residents and ratepayers have voted for a return to basics: keeping water affordable, safer roads, investment in core infrastructure and services, and action on the cost-of-living."

He added that his campaign centred on people rather than politics and promised a council that listens and delivers.

"My campaign wasn't about politics – it was about people. I'm committed to making sure that every resident, from across Hutt City, feels seen, heard, and are part of our city's future," he said.

"We will be a council that listens and delivers – not one that overpromises and underdelivers. Elections are about choice, and our city has made theirs. Now it's time to roll up our sleeves and get to work."

The 2025 local elections have seen a notable rise in Pasifika representation nationwide.

In Hutt City, Mele Tonga-Grant narrowly won a council seat by one vote, while Lesa Bingley, Vatau Sagaga and Lahraine Sagaga were elected to the Wainuiomata Community Board.

Across the country, Pacific candidates secured key roles, including Gabriel Tupou on the Greater Wellington Regional Council, Izzy Ford on Porirua's Onepoto General Ward, and Rachel Karalus on Hamilton City Council.

Mr Laban election marks a historic milestone for Pasifika leadership in Aotearoa, signalling growing political participation and representation across all levels of local government.