Toby Hutton: It's about time we considered digital voting

Hibiscus and Bays Local Board Candidate Toby Hutton is calling for a switch to a digital form of voting for future local government elections.

“A digital, online medium for casting votes in local elections is something that would really make life easier for many Aucklanders,” says Toby.

“The digital era came around the corner some years ago – it's where things, big and small, are going. Offering a facility to cast votes online is something we really ought to look at sooner rather than later.

"But this must be done in a way that does not detract from what is a very important civic duty."

"The candidate booklets and ballot papers should still be sent by mail, with the voter able to chose to vote online or by post, just like the 2013 census."

“Digital voting would ultimately save ratepayers a considerable amount of time and money. Voting is an important civic duty, so the easier and more convenient it is for local people, the better.

"These things don't come about overnight, but to future-proof our local electoral system for ease of use and cost-effectiveness, it's very important that we look at digital voting as a viable future option."

“While it's abundantly clear the future of voting is digital, we must not forget those who may not have access to a digital voting medium by still offering the conventional, paper-based option to those who want it.”

Toby Hutton is a centre-right Communities & Residents candidate standing for election to the East Coast Bays subdivision of the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board.

ENDS

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