Otago Regional Council (ORC) is encouraging people to start thinking now about standing in this year’s local government election or consider nominating someone else. 

“July might seem a long way off, but now’s a good time to start thinking about whether you or someone you know might fit the bill,” ORC chief executive Richard Saunders said.

“By standing for election to ORC, you’ll be a part of Otago’s democracy,” he said. 

“Being an elected member of local government can be a rewarding role, as you advocate for your communities and work with our partners to achieve the best outcomes for this region we love.”

ORC has 12 councillors over four wards - Dunstan (covering Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago), as well as Dunedin, Moeraki and Molyneux.

The Dunstan ward will have additional representation in this election for the first time after a recent decision to boost Dunstan’s councils seats by one to four.

Dunstan’s three existing seats are currently filled by Gary Kelliher, Michael Laws and Alexa Forbes. None of the current councillors live in the Upper Clutha.

Read more: More local representation on ORC

Richard said councillors will influence decisions covering “environmental management, natural resource management, public transport, preparing for and responding to emergencies and natural disasters as well as the economic, social, cultural, and environmental wellbeing of the region”.

“You can be a key part of that,” he said. 

Candidates for an elected member need to be: a New Zealand citizen, over 18 years old, and enrolled on a New Zealand electoral roll.

“People can find out more by heading to our Election 2025 webpage where they can find information about what a regional council does, the role of a councillor, how much they get paid, how many meetings they need to attend and how much reading is required,” he said.

Find more information here.

PHOTO: ORC