Time ticking for local election nominations

With nominations for the October elections closing this time next week, Stratford District Council Chief Executive Sven Hanne is urging those interested in standing to get their nominations in early before the deadline.

Mr Hanne said, “We are three weeks into the nomination period and have only got four confirmed candidates running. Our community want to have a choice when it comes to voting, and for that to happen, we need people to step up.”

“We need leaders to help shape the future of our district and I encourage people from all walks of life to consider running. You don’t need a specific qualification, but you need to be passionate about this place, be able to listen to your community members and bring good ideas to the table,” said Mr Hanne. “I know there’s plenty of people that will fit that description in our community, this is your time, don’t miss the opportunity.”

Those wanting to stand for Council must have their completed nomination accepted by electoral officers before 12noon on Friday 12 August 2022.

“We encourage candidates to get their paperwork in well before this deadline as this gives our electoral officers time to ensure they have included everything necessary on their application to be in the running,” said Mr Hanne. “We are not able to provide an extension.”

To be eligible to stand you need to be a New Zealand citizen, over 18 years of age and on the electoral roll. Anyone wishing to stand for Mayor must be nominated by two people enrolled in the district, and anyone wishing to stand as a Councillor must be nominated by two people enrolled in the ward they intend to stand in. All candidates are required to pay a deposit of $200.

Nomination forms are available here or from Council’s Service Centre on Miranda Street.

View nominations received to date on our website here.

If you wish to speak with someone about the nomination process please phone our electoral officers on 06 765 6099.