As a result of insufficient candidates at the 2025 triennial elections, extraordinary vacancies have occurred in the Murupara Community Board (Galatea-Waiōhau Subdivision) and the Tāneatua Community Board.
Nominations for the 2026 By-Elections are now closed and nominees are:
Tāneatua Community Board (three vacancies)
- Kerry Gosling
- Ozgur Jahn
- Elise James
- Phillipa Marie Mason
- Angie Rota
- MJ Tuwairua
Murupara Community Board – Galatea-Waiōhau Subdivision (one vacancy)
- Karen Isemonger-Rameka
- Alicia Oliver
Elections will be held between the listed candidates on Tuesday, 3 March 2026, under the first past the post electoral system by postal vote.
Issue of Voting Documents
Voting documents will be posted to electors of each of the respective areas from Friday, 30 January 2026.
Return of Voting Documents
Voting documents must be returned no later than noon, Tuesday, 3 March 2026 to the electoral officer, Whakatāne District Council.
Voting documents can be returned by post, or hand-delivered during normal business hours from Friday, 30 January 2026 to the following locations:
• Whakatāne District Council, 14 Commerce Street, Whakatāne;
• Murupara Service Centre & Library, Civic Square, Pine Drive, Murupara.
Special voting in terms of the Local Electoral Regulations 2001 may be exercised at the above times and locations.
By-Elections Timetable
The timetable below outlines when key events will occur.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Monday 24 November 2025 | Nominations open |
| Monday 22 December 2025 | Nominations close at 12 Noon |
| From Friday 30 January 2026 | Delivery of voting packs |
| Tuesday 3 March 2026 | Close of voting 12 Noon |
| Thursday 5 March 2026 | Official results announced |
Local government enables communities, through their elected representatives, to make decisions about the way their district works today and for the future. By being elected to Whakatāne District Council or a community board, you'll be contributing to decisions that affect people and communities across the district.
Lead where you live
As an elected member, you'll represent your community's interests and help shape Whakatāne's future for current and future generations. You'll work to foster inclusion and ensure diverse voices in the community are heard in local decision-making.
Elected member role
Representation: You'll speak on behalf of individuals and organisations in your community, acting in their best interests and making decisions that benefit both current and future generations.
Treaty partnership: A key responsibility is upholding the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi - The Treaty of Waitangi, reflecting our commitment to partnership with tangata whenua.
Community leadership: You'll foster inclusion and belonging, ensuring all voices across our diverse Whakatāne community are heard and valued.