Local Government elections (also referred to as Local Authority Elections) throughout New Zealand are held by postal vote every three years and run by the local authority (the Tasman District Council).
General Elections are run by the Electoral Commission (not the Tasman District Council).
Elections are conducted under the provisions of the Local Electoral Act 2001, the Local Electoral Regulations 2001, and the Local Government Act 2002.
It is a local authority election year, and a hit song by John Farnham sums up the aspirations of our democratic form of local government.
“You’re the voice,” is the focus of this, the first of a series of articles focusing on providing a snapshot of the reality of being a Mayor, Councillor, or Community Board Member, and what it’s like working in a local authority.
During election time, it is very easy for candidates to make a range of promises to their local communities and the whole District.
However, successful candidates need to have a broad view of issues and recognise that decisions are made by a majority, with each member only having one vote.
The success of a local council or community board depends on how well the members all work together and make compromises if necessary.
Local Government New Zealand sums it up well. They say, “Good governance balances short-term and long-term responsibilities, and the stewardship of the organisation.”
This means focusing on the overall performance of the kaunihera (council) over the long term, how it meets community expectations and aspirations, how it fulfils statutory obligations, and how it looks after assets.
If you think you have what it takes and want more information, visit votelocal.co.nz(external link).
Nominations for candidates open Tuesday 1 July 2025.
