Nominations are now open for Porirua’s upcoming local elections, giving residents a chance to step forward and help shape the city’s future. The election will determine the city’s mayor and councillors across three wards, with nominations closing at midday on 1 August.
Porirua’s Deputy Electoral Officer Jack Marshall said the elections present an important opportunity for people from all walks of life to have a say in the direction of their community.
“Porirua is such a diverse community and people from all walks of life and experiences put their hand up to represent the city,” Marshall said. “Standing for Council is an opportunity to show that you are Porirua proud, and if elected, you’ll be part of a team making decisions that shape Porirua’s future.”
The Council is encouraging anyone interested to learn more about the process and is offering assistance to make the nomination process as straightforward as possible.
Candidates can stand for mayor or for one of the city’s councillor positions: four seats in the Pāuatahanui General Ward (covering the north), five in the Onepoto General Ward (covering east and west Porirua), and one seat in the Parirua Māori Ward, which is elected by voters on the Māori electoral roll.
To stand, candidates must be at least 18 years old, hold New Zealand citizenship, and be enrolled on either the general or Māori electoral roll. While candidates do not need to reside in the ward they are contesting, they must be nominated by two voters over the age of 18 from that ward.
To assist those considering candidacy, the Council will hold two information sessions at the Helen Smith Room in Pātaka: from 10am to 11am on Saturday 12 July and from 7pm to 8pm on Monday 14 July. Both sessions will feature New Zealand Sign Language interpreters, and one will be recorded for online access.
Voting papers will be posted to registered voters in September, with voting closing at midday on Saturday, 11 October.
More information is available at poriruacity.govt.nz/elections.