

Local government is a foundational part of our democracy. But local democracy isn’t just about holding elections every three years – it’s about the day-to-day ways people have their say in the decisions that affect us all.

Local government is a foundational part of our democracy. But local democracy isn’t just about holding elections every three years – it’s about the day-to-day ways people have their say in the decisions that affect us all.
End race-based policies across local government and treat every resident equally and fairly.
Oppose voting rights for unelected iwi representatives and ensure decisions rest with elected councillors.
Uphold free speech in council venues so lawful community groups can access them without bias.
Increase transparency by making council spending and decisions clear, open and easy for residents to access.
Strengthen communication so residents are actively involved in shaping council priorities and outcomes.
Ensure council never forgets it works for ratepayers — it is the community's money, not the council's.
Address proposed new central government legislation on financial control and council focus to achieve the best result for the community.
Ensure that the needs and concerns of the community are heard and addressed, particularly when large amounts of debt are being considered.
Encourage an open and transparent culture for council including both elected and employed members.
Engage with the public to hear their views and represent them in council settings.
Reduce inertia often found when dealing with local councils and streamline processes wherever possible.
Ensure the internal makeup of council is fit for purpose and matched to deal with situations and services.
Promote true resident engagement, feedback, opinion and discussion by connecting, building relationships and creating forums for this to occur.
Listen to, appreciate and actively represent the views of constituents and promote consultation and transparent decision making.
Build cultural competency and capacity within council by embracing, appreciating and including cultural and ethnic diversity, voice and beliefs.
Advocate for council and community discussion on local government reform and progressive relationship with central government.
Demonstrate council support for local concerns and all the rural lifelines that provide service wrap-around for the community.
Empower the new South Ward Community Board and its active role for local representation.
End race-based policies across local government and treat every resident equally and fairly.
Oppose voting rights for unelected iwi representatives and ensure decisions rest with elected councillors.
Uphold free speech in council venues so lawful community groups can access them without bias.
Increase transparency by making council spending and decisions clear, open and easy for residents to access.
Strengthen communication so residents are actively involved in shaping council priorities and outcomes.
Ensure council never forgets it works for ratepayers — it is the community's money, not the council's.
Address proposed new central government legislation on financial control and council focus to achieve the best result for the community.
Ensure that the needs and concerns of the community are heard and addressed, particularly when large amounts of debt are being considered.
Encourage an open and transparent culture for council including both elected and employed members.
Engage with the public to hear their views and represent them in council settings.
Reduce inertia often found when dealing with local councils and streamline processes wherever possible.
Ensure the internal makeup of council is fit for purpose and matched to deal with situations and services.
Promote true resident engagement, feedback, opinion and discussion by connecting, building relationships and creating forums for this to occur.
Listen to, appreciate and actively represent the views of constituents and promote consultation and transparent decision making.
Build cultural competency and capacity within council by embracing, appreciating and including cultural and ethnic diversity, voice and beliefs.
Advocate for council and community discussion on local government reform and progressive relationship with central government.
Demonstrate council support for local concerns and all the rural lifelines that provide service wrap-around for the community.
Empower the new South Ward Community Board and its active role for local representation.
Compare the mayoral candidates in your area
Compare the candidates for your city or district council
Compare the candidates for your regional council
Compare the candidates for your local or community board