The Wānaka Business Chamber has announced an opportunity for the community to meet and hear from the Waitaki electorate candidates ahead of the 2023 general election. 

Wānaka Business Chamber general manager Glenn Peat said the event promises to be a significant platform for voters to engage directly with the candidates, understand their perspectives, and make informed decisions on election day.

Each candidate will be given the stage to introduce themselves and share their background, experiences, and aspirations for the Waitaki electorate. 

Following the introductions, a Q&A session will be held, with candidates answering both previously submitted questions as well as from the floor. 

To participate in the Q&A, members and guests can send their written questions to the Wānaka Business Chamber (at [email protected]). The submission deadline for questions is 5pm this Friday (September 2).

The event is open to the Wānaka community, and no registration is required. 

The candidates vying for the opportunity to represent the Waitaki electorate are Sean Beamish (Act), Roger Small (DemocracyNZ), Pleasance Hansen (Green Party), Ethan Reille (Labour Party), and Miles Anderson (National Party).

Read more: Campaign begins for Waitaki electorate

Glenn said the event was being provided “with the aim of fostering informed decision-making and promoting fair and effective representation”.

“The Chamber's priority is to facilitate open and respectful conversation during the event, ensuring that every attendee has the opportunity to hear from all candidates and that no single issue or viewpoint dominates the discussion.”

The Meeting the Candidates event will take place on Tuesday September 5 from 7pm – 9pm at the Lake Wānaka Centre.