Seven seats are still up for grabs in Central Hawke’s Bay Local Government elections.

Only three people have put their names in the hat for the ten available seats at Council, Central Hawke’s Bay Deputy Electoral Officer Jane Budge said.

“We still have seven seats on offer until midday 1 August,” Budge said.

“I know a number of people have declared their intentions to stand in this year’s race, in the media and on social platforms, but until they have filled out the form and paid the deposit, they’re not in the running.

“There’s only a week to go.”

The ten seats open for Central Hawke’s Bay District Council are: the Mayor, two at large councillors, one Rautahi Māori Ward, three for Aramoana-Ruahine Ward, and three for the Ruataniwha Ward.

It’s not unusual for nominations to be left until the last minute, but it does create some stress for us working behind the scenes to ensure everything goes smoothly, Budge explained.

“If a potential candidate hasn’t completed a form accurately and we if have time to get it fixed, we will. But if a candidate hasn’t done it correctly and they hand it in at 11.59am Friday 1 August, our hands are tied from midday, and they may not be eligible to stand.”

Standing for Council means being able to represent your community, and the views it holds to make decisions to propel the district forward.

“We want as many people standing as possible. It creates healthy, robust debate between the candidates and residents about what the direction we need to take Central Hawke’s Bay in.

“It’s a special way to make your mark on the world.”

Electoral law in New Zealand states that if there is only one nomination per seat, that seat is then filled by the person uncontested. If there aren’t enough nominations, then a by-election will be held, which is funded by the ratepayers of that district.

“Hop to it, and get your nominations in either for yourself, or give a nudge to those you know will represent your views around the Council table in the next three years.

“Because if it’s not you, then who,” Budge said.

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