Prabha Ravi for Mayor of Lower Hutt
I’m standing for Mayor because Lower Hutt deserves fresh, grounded leadership and a Council that truly serves its people. I have the experience, the dedication, and the community focus to end "politics as usual" and steer our city towards a smarter, more inclusive future.
We all cherish this city. Lower Hutt is our home, a place of diverse communities and immense potential. It's where I've lived for over 25 years, where I raised my children, built a business, and forged the relationships that define who I am. There’s nowhere else I’d rather be.
But it's clear to me our city needs a new direction. We need smarter council spending to ensure every ratepayer dollar delivers better value. Our local services must improve, becoming more reliable and accessible for everyone. It's time for leadership that is thoughtful, future focused, and genuinely representative of all who live here.
Lower Hutt didn’t vote for inefficient spending or a disconnect between the Council and its communities. It’s time for new leadership that listens to Lower Hutt residents and makes sound decisions that benefit our entire city.
I’ve dedicated my life to serving our community and bringing people together. As the founder of the Natraj School of Dance, I've seen the power of connection, bringing together over 1,600 students and diverse cultures through the arts. As Chair of the Hutt Valley DHB Consumer Council and through my work with numerous community boards, I’ve consistently advocated for the needs and voices of our people.
My focus as Mayor will be getting the best for Lower Hutt. That means ensuring our council delivers reliable, affordable public transport and fosters a vibrant cultural calendar that reflects and connects our diverse communities. It means supporting our small businesses and grassroots groups to strengthen local voices. While I stand as an independent voice, I am committed to working collaboratively and inclusively to be a Mayor for all of Lower Hutt. My commitment is to listen, act, and deliver for our city.
Prabha’s Policy Priorities
My campaign is centred on results, not rhetoric. My platform is built around three core pillars:
Value for Money: Smarter Council Spending
Introduce a Ratepayer Value Charter to promote outcome based budgeting
Audit major council projects for effectiveness and accountability
Prioritise frontline services and cost of living relief
Transport and Infrastructure that Works
Advocate for more frequent and affordable public transport, including on weekends.
Maintain affordable council parking and improve reliability
Inclusive, Connected Communities
Launch Community Connect to support grassroots initiatives and local hubs
Champion the arts, sport, and youth participation across the Hutt
Ensure all communities, especially rangatahi and ethnic groups, are represented and heard
Prabha on Value for Money
“Every dollar must work harder. Lower Hutt families deserve more for what they pay.”
Prabha on Transport and Infrastructure
“Getting around shouldn’t be a burden. Let’s build a city that moves with you.”
Prabha on Inclusive, Collected Communities
“We’re stronger together, and every voice matters. My campaign is about delivery, not division. I’m here to work for the people of Lower Hutt”
