Residents of the Murupara and Tāneatua communities are encouraged to keep an eye on their letterboxes, with voting packs for the 2026 Whakatāne District Community Board by-elections being delivered from today (Friday, 30 January 2026).
By-elections are being held for the Murupara Community Board – Galatea-Waiōhau Subdivision (one vacancy) and the Tāneatua Community Board (three vacancies). This follows the 2025 triennial elections, where insufficient nominations resulted in extraordinary vacancies.
Whakatāne District Council Governance Services Manager, Chirese Viljoen, says it is encouraging to see strong interest from candidates.
“We were pleased to see a good number of people put their names forward for these positions. Community boards play an important role in representing local voices and advocating for the needs of their communities, and it’s encouraging to see people interested in stepping forward to serve and support their local areas.”
There are six candidates standing for the three vacancies on the Tāneatua Community Board, and two candidates standing for the single vacancy on the Murupara Community Board – Galatea-Waiōhau Subdivision.
Voting closes at 12 noon sharp on Tuesday, 3 March 2026. Completed voting documents can be dropped in the voting bins at Whakatāne District Council Customer Services or the Murupara Service Centre & Library.
Residents returning voting documents via NZ Post are encouraged to do so before Tuesday, 24 February 2026 to ensure they arrive on time.
Key dates:
- From Friday 30 January 2026: Residents will begin receiving their voting packs.
- Tuesday 3 March 2026 (12 noon sharp): Voting closes
- Thursday 5 March 2026: Official results announced (declaration of results)
Residents of the Murupara and Tāneatua communities are encouraged to check their mail, learn about the candidates, and return their vote on time.
For more information visit: whakatane.govt.nz/2026-community-board-by-election