Still time left to increase voter turnout

Despite the record number of candidates standing for election this year, fewer Far North electors have so far returned their voting papers than at the same time during the 2016 election.

Far North District Council CEO Shaun Clarke says, as of Tuesday 1 October, 6875 electors had completed and returned their votes. This represents 15.94 per cent of enrolled voters, and is less than the 18.8 per cent of votes received at the same point in 2016.  

“All residents and ratepayers enrolled to vote should have received voting packs in the mail by now. If you haven’t yet filled in your voting papers, I urge you to set aside 20 minutes between now and Sunday to select the leaders you want. Please post your completed papers back to us by Tuesday 8 October so we get them before the election closes at midday on Saturday 12 October.”

Anyone who misses the 8 October postal deadline can still make sure their vote is counted by placing voting papers in secure ballot boxes at Council offices. These are available during office hours at Te Ahu in Kaitaia, the John Butler Centre in Kerikeri and at the Council headquarters on Memorial Drive, Kaikohe.

Mr Clarke says voters who have not received their voting packs, or who are not enrolled, can still have their say by casting a special vote. “The Electoral Commission will be working with us to help all eligible voters to enrol and complete special votes during drop-in days at our Kaitaia and Kaikohe offices from Tuesday 8 October to Thursday 10 October. This is an easy process and is designed ensure that anyone who wants to vote can do so.” 

Voter turnout has dropped steadily in local body elections around the country. In the Far North less than half of eligible voters cast a vote in any of the past three elections. The lowest turnout of 41.7 per cent was in 2016. If current trends continue, voter turnout for the 2019 election could drop below 40 per cent for the first time.