In 1977, election were held for the Mayor of Wellington plus other local government positions including eighteen city councillors.

The 1977 mayoralty was notable for the highly publicized candidacy of Carmen Rupe, a transgender drag performer and brothel keeper.

[2] Former mayor Sir Frank Kitts attempted a comeback after losing narrowly three years earlier.

Local businessman Jim Belich was approached, but he declined for personal reasons.

[4] His support in the mayoral race fell further, though he was again elected to the Wellington Harbour Board where his vote increased.