Local Government NZ (LGNZ) and the Otago Regional Council are recommending voters take the time to research candidates for the upcoming local body elections.

Candidates for the Dunstan constituency, which includes Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago, are Mike Barker, Alexa Forbes, Gary Kelliher, Michael Laws, and Tony Lepper.

“Check out the candidate profiles, find out what they stand for, and vote,” ORC chief executive Dr Pim Borren said.  

Voters can find the full list of candidates and what they stand for in the Election 2022 section of the Wānaka App.

And LGNZ has shared some tips and tricks for voters to get to know candidates ahead of the elections.

LGNZ chief executive Susan Freeman-Greene said she has heard from many voters that they don’t know enough about the candidates standing.

“This is a timely reminder that while all candidates have bios in the voting papers, it’s important to do your own research into people running so you know how they will work together, represent the community’s views and what their policy positions are,” she said.

“Councils are interesting places for elected members because, unlike central government, when people are voted in they don’t bring a team with them. It’s very common for mayors to have to work with councillors who have run against them or lead a council with divergent views. 

“That’s the beauty of local government. But for a council to function well, elected members need to be able to have constructive conversations and build relationships.” 

LGNZ suggests getting to know candidates by using Policy NZ where candidates voluntarily upload information which includes why they’re standing, the issues they care about and their background. 

Attending ‘meet the candidates’ events is another useful way. Susan suggests asking candidates questions about their aspirations, how they envisage working with others in council, and how they plan to connect with all parts of their community.

Many candidates also supply printed brochures about themselves, and have a strong social media presence and websites.

“Local government is an exciting place to influence decisions that will have intergenerational impact. So it’s vital that people around the council table represent their community’s interests and that means we all have a job to do by getting out and voting,” Susan said.

ORC voting papers will be sent out mid-September for postal voting. People can vote from September 16 to noon October 8. The final day for postal votes is October 4.

Election day is October 8, and voting closes at 12 noon. 

PHOTO: Wānaka App