Elections

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Every three years a local body election is held on the second Saturday in October. The next local body election is Saturday 11 October 2025. 



Election dates

The important dates to be aware of for this year's local body elections:

  • Nominations open: Friday 4 July

  • Nominations close: 12.00pm, Friday 1 August

  • Election papers delivered: Tuesday 9 September - Monday 22 September

  • Voting period: Tuesday 9 September - 12.00pm, Saturday 11 October


Considering standing for election?

Every three years you get the chance to stand for election, either as a councillor, the mayor or as a community board member. Being elected gives you direct responsibility for making decisions that are important for current and future communities and it's a chance to make a difference.


Candidate Information Event

A free Candidate Information Event to find out what being a councillor is all about was held on Thursday 17 July at QLDC Council Chambers.

You can see a recording of this event below.


You’ll learn about how Council is structured, the role and responsibilities of elected members, the skills required, expected time commitments, meeting schedules, and the nomination and election process.

LGNZ Resources

Don’t let a lack of local government experience or knowledge put you off. LGNZ offers plenty of support for people wanting to throw their hat in the ring. If you care about your community and want to contribute, why not give it a shot? 

You can find out more about standing for election on the LGNZ website

Their website include information such as:

  • Local Government explained

  • Councils in Aotearoa

  • Local elections and voting

  • How to get involved

There are also resources such as candidate guidance. 

Candidates Security

The Department of Internal Affairs has developed guidance with other agencies on candidate security for local government elections. It is important that all candidates understand and consider the potential risks related to privacy, cyber security, personal security and foreign interference that may arise due to election related activities.

The security advice in this document has been put together to provide visibility of potential privacy and security issues, and to explain mitigations that can be put in place.

Visit the Vote Local website for more information.


Nominations

Want to know who is standing in this year's Local Body Elections? Check out our 2025 Nominations webpage.

If you would like to nominate someone to stand, see the documents below.