Standing as a candidate

What do you stand for? Consider standing as a candidate in the 2025 local elections

Local government elections are a great time to consider what’s important to you and whether you want to stand for a seat at the Council table.

Deciding to play a significant role in our communities by running for local government is a big decision. As an elected member you can help make decisions that shape the future of our district - a great opportunity to see our community progress with your dedication and mahi.

We need candidates with vision, empathy and commitment. Born collaborators who can listen to all viewpoints before reaching a considered conclusion. You should stand for council:

• To contribute to the development and improvement of our community
• To make a difference and be involved in shaping the future of our local community
• To represent the views of local people and ensure that community interests are considered
• To contribute your business or professional skills to help our community realise its potential.

Although councillors are elected from their respective wards, it’s their duty to represent the interests of the whole district.

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 the electoral roll

Other requirements are that:

• The candidate or their spouse/partner must not have concerns or interests in contracts over $25,000 with the council
• If the candidate is subject to a Court Order under section 31 of the Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act 1988, they should take legal advice.
• If the candidate is an employee of the council, they must resign before taking up their position as an elected member.

Candidate behaviours

There are not any formal qualifications required to become a candidate in the local elections. Elected members (councillors) come from all backgrounds and walks of life, with varied skill sets. However, there are certain behaviours that will help you provide effective governance in your role:

• Impartial
• Public interest focus
• Tolerance and respect
• Responsible
• Open and sincere

Being an effective councillor

In addition, there is expertise that makes an effective councillor:

• Whakawhiti kōrero | Communication 

You’ll be the voice and representative of the people of our district.

• Te whakatau me te rautaki | Decision-making and strategy 

You'll need a clear head and an open mind to help run our district. Considering the differing and important needs of our communities and understanding the wider impacts of the decisions you make at Council is important as is understanding how Council plan and pay for everything.

• Mahi tahi | Collaboration

As a councillor your influence goes beyond the rohe. How you represent our district and your focus on relationships and building partnerships is pivotal.

• Ako | Learning 

You’ll need to be aware of the key issues facing our district now and keep learning as the district changes and grows. You’ll learn more about what makes the district tick, and the different communities that make Ōpōtiki special.

• Ngākaunui | Passion 

As with any job, you should be enthusiastic about it! If you’re active in your community, a parent or passionate citizen, if you are proud of our district think about standing in future elections and helping to shape our future.

Candidate guides

In early 2025 we will upload a Candidate Information Handbook - it's a great starting point for anyone who is considering standing in this election.

There is also a wealth of information that has been put out by Local Government New Zealand:

• Download the LGNZ Candidates Guide for more information on what it means to be an elected member.
• Download the LGNZ Guide to Local Government for more information of how local government works.
• Go to the Vote Local website for more information for candidates.

Nomination information

Being nominated involves the following steps:

• Completion of an official nomination paper (to be added in early 2025)
• Nominations from two people. Candidates cannot nominate themselves, and those who nominate candidates must be over 18 years old and enrolled to vote in the area the candidate is planning to stand
• Candidates must consent to their nomination going forward
• A $200 deposit must be paid, which may be refunded depending on election results
• Candidates must be New Zealand citizens and enrolled as an parliamentary elector (you must be 18 years or older)