Local election candidates advised not to leave their nominations to the last minute

Those interested in standing for the Kāpiti Coast District Council in this year’s local elections shouldn’t wait to get their nominations in as incomplete last-minute applications have seen candidates miss out, says Electoral Officer Dale Ofsoske.

Candidate nominations close at noon on Friday 12 August and while many in the community have indicated their interest, the submission of formal nominations has been slow - a trend playing out across New Zealand.

“My advice for those keen to stand is not to leave it to the last minute,” says Mr Ofsoske.

“It’s disappointing to have to reject applications due to errors that, if the candidate had given themselves more time, could be corrected and resubmitted. If a completed application isn’t with us by 12 noon on Friday 12 August, we can’t accept it.”

Council is seeking candidates that want to engage with their community, work to build and protect a culture of inclusion and belonging, and to lead the Kāpiti Coast through a time of significant change.

“Local government has always been a multifaceted, challenging and rewarding area to work in and significant change is on the horizon with three national reform programmes underway. Councils are the coalface for big issues like climate change, housing, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.  It can only succeed if people who care for their communities are prepared to serve,” says Mr Ofsoske.

“You need to speak on behalf of the diverse individuals and organisations in your community and make decisions that consider the needs of both current and future generations. The role of elected members is to ensure good governance, which balances short and long-term responsibilities. You will focus on the overall performance of Council, such as how it meets community expectations and aspirations, fulfils statutory obligations, and looks after its assets.

“If you want to protect and enhance what we love about living, working and playing in Kāpiti, then I encourage you to think about standing.”

A final information session for interested candidates to learn more about life as an elected member will be held on Tuesday, 9 August at 6pm at the St Peters Hall in Paekākāriki. A detailed candidate information handbook and recording of a previous information session are also available on the Council’s website.  

For more details about the nomination process, visit kapiticoast.govt.nz/stand