Former Wellington mayor Sir James Belich is being remembered as a man who had time for everyone.

Sir James, or Jim as he was known, died yesterday morning aged 88.

He worked in advertising for 30 years before becoming mayor in 1986, and staying in the role for six years.

Wellington City Councillor Ray Ahipene-Mercer said he had a big heart.

"He was one of those Labour left people who was able to straddle the center and work with people."

"He demonstrated that if people had good things to say he would listen to them."