Nominations open for 2019 Auckland elections
Aucklanders from all walks of life are being encouraged to stand in this year’s local election.
The nomination period is now open, with 170 roles being contested.
Aside from the mayoral race, 20 councillors will be elected to represent the 13 supercity wards.
A further 149 local representatives will be elected across the 21 local boards.
Auckland Council General Manager Democracy Services, Marguerite Delbet says the nominations window is a critical time.
“Now is the chance for Aucklanders from all backgrounds to step up, share their ideas, and help lead our region forward.”
A number of information sessions will be held over the coming weeks for people interested in standing. These will be publicised on OurAucklandand the elections website.
Nomination forms are available via voteauckland.co.nz and must be submitted by midday on 16 August.
The website also has information about how nominations work, how to campaign, and the roles, responsibilities and remuneration of elected members.
Help shape Tāmaki Makaurau
Ms Delbet says “a mix of passionate community advocates is needed to reflect the diverse nature of our region”.
“Our elected members will help shape Tāmaki Makaurau for years to come.
“The next few weeks are an opportunity for informed and robust debate about the issues that affect Aucklanders.”
Nominees must be New Zealand citizens aged 18 years or older and be enrolled on the New Zealand electoral roll.
After the candidates are announced on 21 August, information about each person, including what motivated them to stand, will be available on voteauckland.
Closer to the election, voters will be able to type their address into the website to find their local board and ward. They will also be able to search for the closest post box to return their voting papers.
People can also sign up for voting reminders by joining our email list.
Finally, in the interests of transparency, each time a candidate requests official council information, the documents will be published on the Auckland Council website. This will ensure all candidates and voters have equal access to information.
Nominations are also open for the DHB and licensing trusts elections, which take place at the same time as the local election.
Key election dates
19 July - Candidate nominations open
16 August - Candidate nominations close at noon / Electoral roll closes
21 August - Candidates announced
20 September - Voting opens
8 October - Last day to post voting papers (ballot boxes will still be open)
12 October - Voting closes at noon
17 October to 23 October - Official results announced