The Otago Regional Council (ORC) is encouraging people to start thinking now about standing in this year’s local government election or consider nominating someone else.

“July might seem a long way off, but now’s a good time to start thinking about whether you or someone you know might fit the bill,” says ORC’s Chief Executive, Richard Saunders.

“People can find out more by heading to our Election 2025 webpage www.orc.govt.nz/stand where they can find information about what a regional council does, the role of a councillor, how much they get paid, how many meetings they need to attend and how much reading is required.”

“In the next triennium (3-year term) council will make decisions which support outcomes for our community in environmental management, natural resource management, public transport,preparing for and responding to emergencies and natural disasters as well as the economic, social, cultural, and environmental wellbeing of the region,” Mr Saunders says.

“You can be a key part of that.”

“By standing for election to ORC, you’ll be a part of Otago’s democracy. Being an elected member of local government can be a rewarding role, as you advocate for your communities and work with our partners to achieve the best outcomes for this region we love.”

“Thinking about standing but not sure how to go about it? We have some good advice online, and our staff are here to help.”

“To be effective you will need to bring a broad range of skills to the role including decision-making and strategic thinking, communication skills and the desire to engage with your community as part of your role, plus relationship-building and collaboration skills.”

To be a candidate for an elected member position you need to be:

• A New Zealand citizen
• Over 18 years old
• Enrolled on a New Zealand electoral roll

The Otago Regional Council is made up of 12 Councillors elected from four constituencies. After a representation review, this year there are changes to the number of councillors in the Dunedin and Dunstan wards. These constituencies are now Dunedin (with five Councillors), Dunstan (four), Molyneux (two) and Moeraki (one).

Also changed this year is the way the region will cast their vote for ORC’s elections. This year all of Otago moves to Single Transferrable Vote (STV) for the ORC.

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