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.
Positions you can stand for
Mayor
- Elected 'at large' across the entire district
- Provides leadership to council and the community
- 3-year term
Councillors (10 positions across 6 wards)
General Wards:
- Whakatāne-Ōhope General Ward (4 councillors)
- Rangitāiki General Ward (2 councillors)
- Te Urewera General Ward (1 councillor)
Māori Wards:
- Rangitāiki Māori Ward (1 councillor)
- Kāpū-te-rangi Māori Ward (1 councillor)
- Toi ki Uta Māori Ward (1 councillor)
Community Board Members (24 positions across 4 boards)
- Whakatāne-Ōhope Community Board (6 members)
- Rangitāiki Community Board (6 members)
- Tāneatua Community Board (6 members)
- Murupara Community Board (6 members, including subdivisions)
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.
Governance: You'll be responsible for the strategic direction and oversight of council operations, ensuring our district thrives.
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.
Key Requirements
Eligibility:
- New Zealand citizen
- Name on the Parliamentary Electoral Roll (anywhere in New Zealand)
- Two nominators enrolled in the area you're standing for
Important: You don't need to live in the ward you're standing for, but this must be disclosed to voters.
Key Dates
- Nominations Open: Friday, 4 July 2025
- Nominations Close: Friday, 1 August 2025 (12 noon)
- Voting Period: Tuesday, 9 September - Saturday, 11 October 2025
- Election Day: Saturday, 11 October 2025 (voting closes 12 noon)
Candidate briefing
Learn what serving your community really involves
Saturday, 14 June | 12.30pm
Whakatāne District Council, 14 Commerce Street, Whakatāne
No registration required – simply attend to understand the journey ahead.
What you'll learn:
- Council operations and how decisions are made
- Real-world time commitments and responsibilities
- Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations in local government
- Communication, technology and community engagement
- What a typical day looks like for a councillor
- Remuneration and expenses
- Current challenges facing our district
- Key documents and resources you'll need