Candidates needed for local elections

Local body elections will take place in  October, and nominations open next week (July 4). Council says so far only a few candidates have put up their hands.

In total, there are 171 positions for local board members and ward councillors, and one mayoral position to be filled.

If you’ve been thinking about standing fewer candidates could mean an easier win.

If only one candidate is confirmed to stand for an area with one ward councillor position available (instead of two positions), such as in Franklin, Maungakiekie-Tāmaki, Ōrākei, Rodney, Waitematā and Gulf, and Whau – an uncontested seat means that if you stand, you’ll be elected.

And you can stand in any area – even if you don’t live there. You just need two nominators who are enrolled to vote in that area.

Council’s Governance and Engagement general manager Lou-Ann Ballantyne says it’s a good time for people considering the election to get themselves ready to stand.

“I encourage anyone planning to stand to think about your candidate statement, your social media profiles, your community connections, and the issues that matter in your area,” she says.

Some current elected members say it’s one of the most rewarding jobs an Aucklander could have. So, if you’re passionate about our region and want to make a difference in your community, now is a good time to let Aucklanders know you’re standing.

There’s still time to learn what you need to do at: voteauckland.co.nz/beacandidate

According to Independent Election Services electoral officer Dale Ofsoske:

Should there be insufficient candidates at the upcoming elections, which will be known at midday on Friday, August 1, an extraordinary vacancy would be created.

“In line with the Local Electoral Act (2001), when this is observed on the last day of elections Saturday, October 11, a by-election will need to take place in March 2026,” Ofsoske says.

“Holding an election is an expensive process, so we need citizens to have their say on who should represent them, and make their votes count in October.”

“An estimated cost for a subsequent by-election ranges dramatically from a mayoral by-election (in the millions) to the smallest local board (Aotea Great Barrier),” says Dale.

In the 2022 local elections, 466 Aucklanders stepped up. Twenty three candidates ran for the position of mayor, 65 stood for ward councillor positions and 378 stood for local boards. And in 2019, a total of 423 stood to be elected.

With less than two months until nominations close on Friday August 1 at midday, take this  opportunity to be a voice for your community.

Info: voteauckland.co.nz/beacandidate

2025 Local Board elections candidate announcements

Albany Ward Councillor: John Watson

“Currently rates, borrowing and asset sales have all reached record levels. They’re simply not sustainable. This means now more than ever there’s a real need for strong and independent representatives who will protect the public interest and stand up for our communities. That’s always been our number one priority and will continue to be so – the interests of our ward are paramount as evidenced on multiple occasions during this last council. Too much effort has gone in over the years to improve our services and facilities on the Coast for anything less. Similarly the very real opportunity in this next term to significantly enhance the wider local transport network through leveraging the billion dollar investment associated with O-Mahurangi- Penlink.”

Albany Ward Councillor: Wayne Walker

“Standing up as champions for the Hibiscus Coast has and continues to be vital –  steadfast, committed, and representing your interests. As independent councillors, we work across and with the Coast’s communities to safeguard assets like the Gulf Harbour Golf Course, ferry service at Gulf Harbour, realise future plans for Silverdale’s Metro Park and are always working on transport improvements. We’re after best value for your rates, not selling income earning strategic Council assets like the Port or North Harbour Stadium that were up for sale and demolition, and protecting our beaches and green spaces like Ōrewa Beach. We work for what is best for Auckland and we are always accessible, listening and following through.”

Hibiscus Matters will announce Local Election candidates as they confirm they are standing.