Representation Review Survey Goes Live

Check your mailboxes everybody.

A representation review survey has been sent to every house in the district to gauge public opinion about the current system used for electing councillors and the mayor.

The survey asks two questions. The first – should we have more, the same or fewer elected members? Presently, the Waimate District Council is made up of eight councillors and the mayor. Legislation allows for between five and 29 elected members.

The second question asked is should councillors be elected by wards, at large, or by a mix? Currently, councillors are elected from the Waimate Ward (four representatives), Pareora-Otaio-Makikihi Ward (two representatives), Hakataramea-Waihoarunga Ward (one representative) and Lower Waihao Ward (one representative).

If the system was ‘at large’, there would be no wards, and everybody would be elected from the same ballot. Each councillor represents approximately 1,050 people.

All local councils are required to carry out a representation review every six years.

Waimate District Council Mayor Craig Rowley said it was a good opportunity to reach out to the public and make sure residents feel fairly and effectively represented.

“Our district covers a large and diverse area, and we want to make sure we have the best system we can.”

“Your input is crucial in shaping the future of our local government. Take a few minutes to complete the survey and have your voice heard.”

The survey is available online at waimatedc.govt.nz/repreview, or you can complete the one on the back of the brochure in your letterbox and drop it off at the Council reception. The survey closes at 12pm on Thursday 9 May.

Council will consider the feedback received and will make an initial proposal of the representation arrangements for the 2025 and 2028 local elections, which will be publicised on 6 June.