Do you want to make a difference?

This year’s local government elections are approaching and if you’ve ever thought of standing as a candidate, maybe now is the time.

The introduction of the Tākitimu Māori Ward earlier this year was a significant change for Hastings District Council. You don’t need to be of Māori descent or be on the Māori electoral roll to stand for a Māori ward or constituency (but you do need to be a New Zealand citizen, a parliamentary elector somewhere in New Zealand and be nominated by two electors from the area you are standing in).

Who can be a candidate?

To be a candidate for an elected member position, you must be:

• a New Zealand citizen;
• over 18 years old;
• enrolled on a parliamentary electoral roll anywhere in New Zealand.

You do not need to reside in the area (e.g. district, ward or community board) that you are standing for. Any eligible person is able to stand for Māori or general wards – people do not need to live in the Māori or general ward they are being nominated for.

You don't need any special qualifications. Elected members come from all walks of life, with diverse ideas and experiences. 

How can I become a candidate?

• Before you become a candidate, you will need to learn about how the Council works and your roles and responsibilities if you get elected.
• Nominations open 15 July and close 12 August 2022.
• Get two people to nominate you - they must be enrolled to vote in the area you wish to be a candidate for.
• Your nominators complete the nomination form and you will need to sign it.
• Pay a nomination deposit of $200 - you may get a refund, depending on how many votes you receive.
• The nomination form, proof of citizenship, candidate profile statement and photograph (if any) and the $200 deposit must all be lodged together.

 Head to this page for more info.

7 June 2022

Back to Archive