Nominations open today, Tuesday 4 April, for a vacant position on Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board.
The by-election follows the resignation late last month of board member Swanie Nelson, who ran on a Labour ticket. Nelson polled second behind current board chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia at last year’s local body elections with 3106 votes.
Five people put themselves forward as candidates for one of the three Ōtara subdivision places in the October local body elections. The neighbouring Papatoetoe subdivision elects four members to the seven-seat board.
Board chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia says Nelson’s strong community ties has seen her make a valuable contribution since first elected in 2019.
“Swanie is a strong mana wahine and I will look forward to continuing to work with her in the community.
“Situations change, and anyone who puts the well-being of their family first should be commended. Even though she has chosen to resign because she can no longer devote the time and attention to the role she believes it deserves, she has provided wise advice and great leadership during her time.”
Autagavaia says the board area had good candidates standing in both wards at the last election. “I’d encourage those who believe they can work as part of a team for the good of their community to put their names forward.”
Under the Local Electoral Act, a by-election must be run if a local elected member position becomes vacant, unless it is within one year of the next election.
The Electoral Officer must receive candidate nominations for the by-election by midday Tuesday 2 May 2023.
Voting documents will be posted to eligible voters from Tuesday 6 June and voting will close at 12 noon Wednesday 28 June 2023.
“We are working to the earliest possible date in accordance with the Local Electoral Act,” says Rose Leonard, Manager of Governance Services at the council.
“This vacancy is paid (part-time) so there is an opportunity to really dig into the work and make a difference for your community. You can be a part of a great local team with on-the-job support when you need it.”
If you want to know more about the role, then visit Voteauckland.co.nz
