Life is busy - work, whānau, commitments, routines. This local election is about making voting fit seamlessly into all of that.
Whakatāne District Council has set its sights on achieving a record voter turnout this election, making it easier than ever for people to have their say. From bright orange voting bins in places you already go to across the district, to mobile teams bringing support directly into communities, the focus is on accessibility, convenience, and participation.
It all begins this Tuesday, 9 September, when voting packs start arriving in letterboxes.
Chief Executive Steven Perdia says the mission is clear: to exceed the 44% turnout at the last election and spark civic energy across the district.
“This isn’t your traditional election,” says Mr Perdia. “We’ve eliminated as many barriers as possible so that every eligible voice can be heard. Your community deserves your voice, and we’ve made it easier than ever to have your say.”
Orange voting bins will be available in everyday locations across the district - from supermarkets to community spaces. Grabbing milk at Woolworths? Drop your vote. Picking up supplies at Four Square Murupara? Vote done. Visiting Knox Presbyterian Church or connecting with iwi at Ngāti Rangitihi headquarters? Your ballot’s sorted. Can’t find time during the working week? Council will open its doors on a Saturday before Election Day.
Mobile voting teams will also roll into towns and smaller communities, bringing special voting services and extra support.
“We’ve made voting as simple as your daily routine,” Mr Perdia says. “Voting packs arrive at your door with everything you need - just tick your choices and either post them back in the freepost envelope, drop them in a bright orange bin during your weekly shop, or use ballot boxes at Council offices and libraries.”
For those who need extra assistance, staff are available at Council offices. An interactive map on the Council’s website also shows every orange voting bin location, and candidate videos are online to help people make an informed choice.
Six candidates are standing for the mayoralty, competitive races are underway across wards and community boards, and every voter will help shape the future of local representation through the Māori Wards Poll.
“Five weeks to vote, three easy ways to do it, zero barriers in your way.”
Key dates:
- Voting packs delivered: 9-22 September
- Voting open 9 September to Election Day
- Election Day: Saturday, 11 October (voting closes at 12 noon sharp)