MEDIA RELEASE

Changes streamline local election process

25 June 2013

Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) welcomes the passing of the Local Electoral Amendment Bill (No2), which had its third and final reading today.

This is particularly timely with nominations for candidates set to open in only a few weeks time, on 19 July.

The key changes to the Bill are set to streamline the process for local elections. Rules are now clarified regarding electoral donations and expenses, which will help to remove ambiguity for candidates as to what is an electoral expense and what to declare.

It also allows electoral officers another week, after nominations close, to prepare the voting papers for each area. This minimises the risk of errors when preparing ballot papers.

“It is a positive outcome that the elections process has been refined and improved before the local elections, which are set to take place this October,” says LGNZ President, Lawrence Yule.

“The amendments to the Bill mean that it will further align with national rules, particularly regarding donations, which is good for democracy and will help to reinforce confidence in the local elections process,” says Mr Yule.

*ENDS*

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