Eight candidates have put their names forward to represent their communities in the Whakatāne District Council Community Board by-elections.
Nominations closed at noon today for the by-elections, which follow insufficient nominations at the triennial elections held on 11 October 2025.
Six candidates will contest three vacant positions on the Tāneatua Community Board:
- Kerry Gosling (Independent)
- Ozgur Jahn
- Elise James
- Phillipa Marie Mason
- Angie Rota
- MJ Tuwairua
Two candidates will contest one vacant position on the Murupara Community Board (Galatea-Waiōhau Subdivision):
- Karen Isemonger-Rameka
- Alicia Oliver
It's encouraging to see community members ready to lead where they live, says Chirese Viljoen, Manager Governance Services.
"These candidates are standing up for their neighbourhoods. Community Boards are where local voices turn into action - championing what matters most to communities and shaping the future of the Whakatāne District."
Electors in the respective areas will receive their voting packs from Friday, 30 January 2026, with voting closing at 12 noon on Tuesday, 3 March 2026.
Official results will be announced on Thursday, 5 March 2026.
Voting documents can be returned by post or hand delivered to:
- Whakatāne District Council, 14 Commerce Street, Whakatāne
- Murupara Service Centre & Library, Civic Square, Pine Drive, Murupara
People can enrol as either a residential or ratepayer elector up to and including Monday, 2 March 2026.