Council nominations open for 2025 election
Invercargill and Bluff locals are being encouraged to show their love for the place they call home, with nominations now open for the 2025 local body elections.
Alongside Councils across the country, election nominations officially opened on Friday 4 July for those keen to run for Invercargill City Council, the Bluff Community Board or the Invercargill Licensing Trust (ILT) board. Candidates have until 12 noon, Friday 1 August to get their name in the hat.
Invercargill City Council Deputy Electoral Officer Michael Morris said the opening of nominations marked the official start of the local election period.
“The election period is always a busy and exciting time especially as our passionate locals start to step up and put their names forward to help lead the city they love,” he said.
“This year, we’re calling on people to back the place they love, not just in words, but with action. Standing for election is one of the most meaningful ways to show up for your community. If you care about Invercargill or Bluff, now is the time to show it.”
Morris said elected members played a vital role in shaping the future of the city.
“Our vision is He Ngākau Aroha – Our City With Heart, and when you stand for Council or the Bluff Community Board, you’re stepping into a long-term relationship with your community. It’s a commitment, not a fling, and it takes listening, leadership and a willingness to roll up your sleeves and help make real decisions that shape our city’s future and its heart.”
Those considering a run can stand for Mayor, one of 12 councillor positions, one of five seats on the Bluff Community Board, or one of six positions on the ILT board.
The last Council election in 2022 saw 10 candidates running for Mayor, 34 for Council, 11 for Bluff Community Board and 12 for the ILT board.
“We had a strong turnout of candidates at the last election and we’re hoping just as many passionate locals will fall in love with the idea of serving their community again,” Morris said.
Those wanting to stand needed to be over 18, a New Zealand citizen, be enrolled to vote, have two nominators that are also enrolled to vote, and pay a $200 deposit.
“You don’t have to live in Invercargill to stand for Council but your nominators must live within the district,” Morris said.
“For ILT, both you and your nominators must live within the ILT licensing area.”
Morris added that candidates may also choose to stand for Environment Southland, but could not run for both regional and city councils.
Candidates are encouraged to provide a head and shoulders photo and a 150-word profile to help voters get to know them better.
Nominations close at 12 noon on Friday 1 August. Forms, eligibility details, and more information can be found on the Nominations page.
Voting opens on 9 September and closes at 12pm on 11 October.
