Three candidate information sessions held this month across the district have left potential candidates with one clear message — standing to be a Councillor or Community Board member is more doable than you think, and our communities need strong local voices to step forward.
Sessions were held in Ngaaruawaahia and Te Kauwhata, along with an online session for those who couldn’t attend in person.
They were attended by interested locals, current elected members, and Council staff, offering a chance to learn more about the nomination process, time commitments, and the positive impact local decision-making can have in our everyday lives.
“The people who know our communities best are the people living in them,” says Waikato District Council’s acting Chief Executive, Tony Whittaker.
“We’re encouraging anyone who cares about their community to put their hand up. You don’t need a background in politics – just a desire to make a difference.”
With the nomination period closing at 12pm, Friday 1 August, Council is encouraging people from all backgrounds to stand – whether you’re a first-time voter, a long-time local, or someone who is ready to step up and serve their community.
This election, Waikato District Council is seeking nominations for the following roles:
- 1 x Mayor
- 13 x Councillors
- 32 x Community Board Members
- 6 x Te Kauwhata Licensing Trust Members
To ensure our communities are well represented across the district, we need a full slate of candidates across all roles. If some positions aren’t filled by the close of nominations, we may need to hold by-elections. While this helps uphold fair representation, it does mean extra time and unplanned costs.
Community boards are a great place to start. These roles reflect local priorities – from parks and playgrounds to events and infrastructure, serving as a vital link between residents and Council.
Councillor roles, meanwhile, provide a broader opportunity to shape the future of the district. Councillors make decisions on strategy, transport, growth planning to facilities and more, and every new perspective helps build better outcomes for everyone.
Two of the available Councillor positions are Maaori ward roles. Maaori wards function the same as general wards but allow those on the Maaori electoral roll to elect representatives who can advocate for their communities with insight, experience and cultural understanding.
These roles offer a direct and democratic way to grow Maaori participation in local government.
“Representation is about connection – to people, to place and to purpose,” says Tony.
“If you want to see change in your community, this is your moment to be part of it.”
You can see who has been nominated to date for all roles on our website.
To get started, check your eligibility, gather your nomination documents, and submit a completed form online or at one of our offices in Ngaaruawaahia, Huntly, Raglan, Tamahere, Te Kauwhata and Tuakau offices.
“You don’t need to have all the answers,” says Tony.
“You just need to care about your community and be willing to listen, learn and lead.”
To find out more, visit our website.
Missed the online session? Watch the recording here.
