Local government elections are coming up this year which will add at least one new face to the elected lineup as the number of local councillors increases to four. 

Elections for the Queenstown Lakes District Council (mayor, councillors and Wānaka Community Board), Otago Regional Council and Southern District Health Board will all be held on October 8.

The local body elections are held every three years and in the last election, in October 2019, 49.05 percent of the district's eligible voters cast a vote.

A representation review, completed in 2021, increased the number of elected councillors in the Wānaka Ward from three to four for the 2022 election to correspond with the Upper Clutha’s population growth. 

Potential candidates have until mid-July to decide whether to run in the upcoming elections. 

First term Wānaka councillor Niamh Shaw said anyone considering standing for council should make sure they are doing it for the right reasons.

“I believe important qualities in a councillor are, firstly, wanting to make a positive difference within our community and our unique environment,” she said.

“And in the current council environment, I think we need community leaders who are willing to be informed, to make hard decisions, to hold the council corporate to account and challenge the accepted norm. 

“I think an understanding of process and governance, or being able and willing to learn it, is critical at this point in time.”

Niamh said her role is challenging and complex but that there is a lot to love about it.

“It is genuinely fascinating, you learn so much, not only about local government but policy and process, governance and law, and particularly people and group dynamics.”

“The best part about it for me, is meeting amazing people, many of whom work tirelessly and often thanklessly on behalf of others.”

Niamh said it would be worthwhile for anyone thinking of standing for office to attend some council meetings and speak to elected representatives.

“I was fortunate to benefit from the support, experience and advice of fellow elected members, and would be delighted to speak with anyone considering standing and chat over what’s involved,” Niamh said.

Information for those thinking about standing for election can be found here.

There are also four Wānaka Community Board seats up for grabs.

Candidate nominations will open on Friday July 15, 2022. 

The local election is conducted by postal vote with voting papers sent out to those on the electoral roll three to four weeks in advance of the voting closure date.

PHOTO: QLDC