Whakatāne District Council is stepping out of the chambers and into the community, with its second "Stand for Something | Tū Tūturu" candidate briefing session taking place at The Comm next Friday evening.
This year, you'll be able to learn about standing in a local election at your local, and later on, cast your vote in a church, amongst many other handy locations. It's a uniquely Whakatāne way to get involved in democracy - accessible, informal, and grounded in community.
Chief Executive Steven Perdia says the event is all about making the process more accessible and less intimidating, because some things are worth standing for and your community is one of them.
"If you've ever wondered what being a councillor is really like, this is your opportunity to find out, in a welcoming, down-to-earth setting. No suits, no council chambers, just straight-up info and conversation.”
The candidate briefing event will be hosted by Mr Perdia, who'll break down how the Council works and the role of elected members. Electoral Officer Dale Ofsoske will be on-hand to guide potential candidates through the nomination process, timelines, and everything required to put your hand up to stand for Council.
Nominations open on Friday, 4 July and close at noon on Friday, 1 August. For the first time, candidates can complete their nomination online, making the process more convenient and accessible than ever before.
The digital platform streamlines what was previously a paper-only process, though paper nominations are also still accepted, offering options to suit everyone's preferences.
"Candidate briefings are a great way to get behind the scenes," says Mr Perdia. "You don't need political experience - just a commitment to your community and a desire to make a difference. Empty seats don't speak, so we want to fill them with passion, purpose and perspective."
He adds, "There'll also be time for Q&A - so bring your curiosity.
"We want candidates who reflect the diversity of our district’s demographic," Mr Perdia says. "If you know your community, consider representing it. This is an opportunity to lead where you live and go from resident to representative by taking your place at the council table."
The event is being held at The Comm, 45 The Strand, from 5pm-7pm, next Friday, 11 July.
For more information about standing as a candidate, to access the online nomination platform, download nomination forms, or find locations to pick up paper forms, visit Stand for Something | Tū Tūturu.