Ajay Rathod, 53, businessman, political affiliation: Independent

‘‘I am running for Mayor of Wellington as I have not seen much movement in the eastern suburbs and the CBD is just a mess so want to come and will commit to Wellington City Council for all of Wellingtons people.

‘‘My commitment is to listen, be resourceful, make affordable and fair decisions for Wellington City and the people regardless of age, religion, culture, skin colour, gender or income. I will be a leader that doesn’t tolerate discrimination. As Mayor I will promote our city and people with respect and trust.’

‘‘I will put a rates freeze for two years.

‘‘We are landlords, we need to repair and improve our housing stock to give a decent living standard to those that are financially challenged. Maybe we go to pod housing and give people a decent living standard. At a reasonable rent not market rent.’’

‘‘We have a major issue with transport Mt Victoria tunnel, buses my quick fix is to start fast ferry from Miramar wharf to queens wharf, open up Hataitai bus tunnel to cars Then fix the issues buses, Mt Vic tunnel I’m not waiting 5 years.

‘‘Nothing is easy these days to many people putting their 5 cents worth but some times we need to just push on and do good for the city.

‘‘Well the economy if you don’t earn more than $90k a year in reality you’re stuffed. Politicians have no idea what it’s like to earn $17.50 and a living wage is not $20 per hour. Is all lies so if people could spend freely then it would be good.’’