Labour candidates Geoff Hayward and Josh Trlin are calling on Porirua residents to bring their team spirit to the ballot box this Saturday, aiming to fire up turnout across the city.
In a city known for its sporting pride, the candidates are urging voters to treat the day like a home game and lift Porirua’s voter turnout, which sat at just 37 percent in 2022.
“If that was a score line for how proud we are of Porirua, it would be shocking. We can do better,” said Josh Trlin, Labour’s candidate for the Pāuatahanui General Ward and a long-time Hurricanes season ticket holder.
Geoff Hayward, standing in the Onepoto General Ward, echoed the call. A Norths Rugby supporter and cricket club convenor, Hayward plans to cast his vote at North City Mall on Saturday and encourages others to do the same.
“I’ll be at North City Mall on Saturday casting my own vote to show just how easy it is. We’ll both be hitting the doors, making phone calls and helping people get to the polls,” Hayward said. “Don’t stay on the couch, rise to the challenge and make your voice heard.”
Voting is open at North City Mall from 9am to 6pm. Special votes can be issued on the day for anyone without a voting pack, and no ID is required.
The pair’s campaign focuses on stronger waste management, local climate action, and greater council accountability. Both say their shared Labour manifesto provides a clear roadmap for change if elected.
“We are giving it everything we have got to get people voting,” Trlin said. “Now it is over to you. Get your vote in and encourage others across Porirua to do the same.”
More details on how to vote can be found on the Porirua City Council website: https://poriruacity.govt.nz/your-council/mayor-councillors/elections-2025/vote-poti/how-to-vote/