Dig out those voting packs

Aucklanders are reminded they have a week left to return their votes in this year's local body elections.

Voter turnout is well down on the last elections three years ago. Many of the councils in the Auckland region have so far received 25 per cent fewer votes when compared with the same period in 2004.

Dale Ofsoske, electoral officer for four of the Auckland region’s eight councils, says it is important electors take the opportunity to express their views.

“This is the one opportunity people have to select the people they want to represent them. If they don’t vote then they’re not really in a position to comment on the decisions politicians make.”

Mr Ofsoske says voters need to make their choices and get their votes in the post by Thursday 11 October.

“A lot of people will have put their voting packs in the ‘must get round to’ pile. Please make it a priority this week to dig them out and return them.”

Elections are being held for:

mayor, councillors and community board members in your territorial authority (city or district council)
Auckland Regional Council members
District Health Board members
and licensing trust members in some areas.

Voting closes at midday on Saturday, 13 October and some councils will have drop-off points on election day for those who have missed the postal deadline.

To contact your local electoral officer please use the contact details below or visit your council’s website.