From the editor: 1 September 2022

Every vote counts

Having a say in local body politics is important in shaping our region’s future infrastructure, and so too is having a choice about who makes those decisions.

Throughout New Zealand, many mayors, deputies, and councillors are not standing for re-election on 8 October this year, meaning new blood entering the fray. The job is not an easy one, with councillors often the subject of harsh criticism.

Time is also a factor that causes ructions at local government level. Too little time to do all that needs doing, having time to be on council, and making decisons in a timely manner all need to be taken into account.

Local Government New Zealand’s vision is for our country to be the most active and inclusive local democracy in the world. That sounds great but historically we don’t have a good record of voting, or even having enough people standing for election. Healthy democracy depends on a range of people representing the diversity of Aotearoa.

It’s still a time of immense uncertainty but also one of opportunity where standing for election will help make a difference. Voting is another kettle of fish. For me, it is simple. Once every three years we have a chance to decide who gets to make decisions on our behalf.

If you vote then you have the right to complain if your elected representives aren’t performing to expectation. If you don’t vote then you don’t have the right to whinge and bleat if you don’t like what is going on.

The answer is simple: Vote!