Nominations for the Greater Wellington Regional Council by-election in the Wairarapa General Constituency will open Thursday May 14.

The by-election follows an extraordinary vacancy created by the recent passing of Councillor Adrienne Staples. The by-election will elect a Councillor to represent the Wairarapa for the remainder of the 2025–28 triennium.

Greater Wellington’s Electoral Officer Warwick Lampp is encouraging eligible candidates to put themselves forward and ensure their nominations are submitted on time.

“This by-election is an important opportunity for the Wairarapa community to be represented at the Greater Wellington Council table.

“If you’re considering standing, make sure you understand the requirements and get your nomination in before the deadline. Late nominations cannot be accepted,” says Mr Lampp.

Nominations open on Thursday 14 May 2026 and must be received by the Electoral Officer before 12 noon, Thursday 11 June 2026.

To stand as a candidate, you must be a New Zealand citizen, be enrolled as a parliamentary elector somewhere in New Zealand, and be nominated by two electors of the Wairarapa General Constituency. Candidates do not need to live in Wairarapa.

Nomination forms can be obtained from the Greater Wellington website, by contacting elections@gw.govt.nz, or from Greater Wellington’s office at 100 Cuba Street, Wellington.

If more than one nomination is received, an election will be triggered, with voting documents delivered from 20 July 2026 through the post. Voting closes at 12 noon on Friday 21 August 2026, with preliminary results available as soon as practicable after voting closes.

Mr Lampp says candidates should also familiarise themselves with campaigning rules and responsibilities.

“There are clear rules around campaigning and election advertising, including spending limits and authorisation requirements. It’s important all candidates understand these to ensure a fair and compliant election process.”

A candidate handbook with detailed information about the role and election requirements is available on the Greater Wellington website, or by request.

For more information about the by-election, visit Wairarapa General Constituency By-election or call 0800 496 734.

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