One week left for potential election candidates to run

With just one week left in the election nomination period, love-struck residents who have been flirting with the idea of standing for Council need to stop playing hard to get and make their first move.

Nominations for this year’s local body elections close at 12 noon on Friday 1 August.

So far, five have put their name forward for Mayor, 13 for Councillor and three for a seat at the Bluff Community Board table, but it’s not too late to declare your feelings.

Invercargill City Council Deputy Electoral Officer Michael Morris said it was nearly time to shift into the campaigning portion of the election period, but he believed there were still people out there scared to commit.

“Now is the time for the ultimate show of affection by putting your hand up to help represent the city. If you don’t do it now, you’ll never know what could have been.

“Like any relationship, being an Elected Member has its challenges, but it is also extremely rewarding. Don’t let this be the one that got away.”

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.

To be eligible, candidates must be over 18, a New Zealand citizen, be enrolled to vote, have two nominators who are also enrolled to vote, and pay a $200 deposit. Nominees do not need to live in Invercargill to stand for Council, but nominators must live within the district.

For ILT, both nominees and nominators must live within the ILT licensing area. Candidates may also choose to stand for Environment Southland, but are unable to run for both regional and city councils.

In 2022, there were 10 candidates running for Mayor, 34 for Council, 11 for Bluff Community Board, and 12 for the ILT Board, Morris said.

“We were thrilled with the strong candidate turnout last election, and we’re hoping to capture the hearts of just as many passionate locals who want to serve their community,” Morris said.

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.