As of late last week only slightly more than 15 percent of registered voters - 4,770 people - in the district had voted for who will represent them at district and regional council tables.

Tomorrow is the last day (Tuesday October 7) for Upper Clutha voters to post their ballot papers for the mayor, district councillors, Wānaka Upper Clutha Community Board members, and regional councillors.

After that, ballot papers should be dropped into voting bins (at New World Three Parks, New World Wānaka, the Wānaka Library, Wānaka council office at 47 Ardmore Street, and the Hāwea Store and Kitchen) to be counted in time. 

Voting closes at midday on Saturday (October 11). 

Local Government New Zealand interim chief executive Scott Nicklin said turnout is up across the country, especially in rural areas. 

“It’s encouraging, as up to 70 percent of returns typically happen in the final week,” he said. 

Scott said the extra week of voting this year, combined with more ballot boxes and public concern about issues such as rates rises, have all helped lift engagement. 

But he warned against complacency. 

“We need to keep up the momentum. Council decisions affect everything from roads and rubbish to footpaths, freshwater, community facilities and public spaces. This is your chance to influence those decisions.” 

In 2022, 43.05 percent of voters in this district cast their ballots.

Find information on the election and all the candidates here.

PHOTO: Supplied