Nominations for Auckland’s local elections open on Friday 4 July, and with elections looming on the horizon in October, so far only a few candidates have publicly announced they’re standing.
In total, there are 171 positions for local board members, ward councillors and one mayoral position to be filled.
Is it still a contest if there aren’t enough contestants?
Ideally, it is good for voters to have options.
The good news is, if you’ve been thinking about standing and are unsure of what your chances are – at this point, it’s looking favourable.
Fewer candidates standing in an area could mean an easier win for anyone planning to stand.
In fact, if only one candidate is confirmed to stand for an area with one ward councillor position available (instead of two positions), such as in Franklin, Maungakiekie-Tāmaki, Ōrākei, Rodney, Waitematā and Gulf, and Whau – an uncontested seat means that if you stand, you’ll be elected!
And did you know you can stand in any area? Even if you don’t live there. You just need two nominators who are enrolled to vote in that area.
Lou-Ann Ballantyne, Auckland Council’s General Manager Governance and Engagement says it’s a good time for people considering the election to get themselves ready to stand.
“July is just weeks away, so I encourage anyone planning to stand to think about your candidate statement, your social media profiles, your community connections, and the issues that matter in your area,” she says.
Some current elected members say it’s one of the most rewarding jobs an Aucklander could ever have. So, if you’re passionate about our region and want to make a difference in your community, anytime from now is a good time to let Aucklanders know you’re standing.
There’s still time to learn what you need to do at: voteauckland.co.nz/beacandidate
What happens if no candidates stand for your area?
According to the Electoral Officer from Independent Election Services, Dale Ofsoske:
“Should there be insufficient candidates at the upcoming elections, which we will know at midday on Friday 1 August, an extraordinary vacancy would be created.
“In line with the Local Electoral Act (2001), when this is observed on the last day of elections Saturday 11 October, a by-election will need to take place in March 2026,” says Dale.
What’s the cost to Aucklanders if a by-election is needed?
Holding an election that enables democratic participation is an expensive process, so we need citizens to have their say on who should represent them, and make their votes count in October.
“An estimated cost for a subsequent by-election ranges dramatically from a mayoral by-election (in the millions) to the smallest local board (Aotea Great Barrier),” says Dale.
Where will the numbers land in Auckland?
In the 2022 local elections, 466 Aucklanders stepped up as candidates to be elected, including 23 who ran for the position of mayor, 65 stood for ward councillor positions and 378 stood for local boards. And in 2019, a total of 423 stood to be elected.
With less than two months until nominations close on Friday 1 August at midday, will more Aucklanders grab the opportunity to be the voice for their community?
Find out how you can play your part at: voteauckland.co.nz/beacandidate
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Pictured above: THE C & R TEAM: Allan Matson, Anne Batley-Burton, Greg Moyle, Sarah Trotman, Muy Chhour, Michele Wade, Leo Grachev
