Voting Opens in 2016 Local Council Elections

Rangitikei district voters will be able to cast their votes in the 2016 local council elections from tomorrow (Saturday 17 September).

Voting papers were mailed, with all papers expected to have been delivered by Wednesday 21 September. People who have not received their papers by then should contact Rangitikei District Council on 06 3270099 or 0800 422 522.

Voting papers must be received by the council before midday on Election Day, 8 October 2016.

The voting papers will use the First Past the Post (FPP) voting system.

In your voting pack, you will also receive your District Health Board papers which will use the STV voting system to elect its members. Voting papers will contain clear instructions on how to vote.

“People should read their papers carefully before casting their vote to ensure they are using the right voting method,” says Warwick Lampp.

“Although electoral rolls have now closed, people can still enrol to vote. However, they will need to request special voting papers,” Warwick says.

“Voting closes at midday on 8 October. I would encourage anyone who has not yet registered to do so and cast a special vote. It’s their opportunity to have a say on how Rangitikei is run over the next three years.”

Enrolment forms and information are available from the main Council office in Marton or Libraries and Information centres in Taihape and Bulls.

In 2013 Rangitikei District Council recorded a 49.5 per cent turnout. Local Government New Zealand’s Vote 2016 campaign aims to lift nationwide voter turnout in local elections to more than 50 per cent – a first since the 1980s. The national Vote2016 campaign has showcased the value local government provides to communities across the country, with a strong focus on inspiring more New Zealanders to vote.

For more information visit our Elections Page Elections 2016