Te Kōwhiringa pōti 2025 - Local elections 2025

Media releases

9 September 2025: Eyes on letterboxes as voting packs arrive

Voting is officially open for the 2025 local elections, with voting packs hitting mailboxes from today (9 September 2025) and over the next two weeks.  

And those bright orange voting bins everyone's been talking about? They're live and ready at convenient places near you - supermarkets, shops, a number of iwi headquarters, and community spots across the region.

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5 September 2025: Council sets sights on record voter turnout for Whakatāne District

Life is busy - work, whānau, commitments, routines. This local election is about making voting fit seamlessly into all of that.

Whakatāne District Council has set its sights on achieving a record voter turnout this election, making it easier than ever for people to have their say. From bright orange voting bins in places you already go to across the district, to mobile teams bringing support directly into communities, the focus is on accessibility, convenience, and participation.

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25 July 2025: The countdown is on, Whakatāne District - just 7 days to go

Friday 1 August is the deadline to enrol and get your nominations in for this year's local elections. If you want to vote, you need to be enrolled. If you want to stand, you need to be nominated. Both opportunities close at the same moment - 12 noon on Friday, 1 August 2025.

Chief Executive Steven Perdia is clear about the timeframe.

"Noon, Friday, 1 August is your deadline. If you’ve ever thought about standing up for your community, this is your moment. Whether you're ready to lead where you live or want to help make sure the right people do - this date matters."

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9 July 2025: Pre-Election Report launches as Council gears up for local elections

The countdown to this year’s local elections is officially on, marked by the release of ‘All you need to know about the Council’ - Whakatāne District Council’s 2025 Pre-Election Report.

This essential document offers a snapshot of Council’s current work programme, finances, and the key issues and opportunities facing the district in the years ahead. It’s a must-read for anyone considering standing, planning to vote, or simply wanting to understand the big decisions coming up. 

Read the full article »

11 June 2025: From resident to representation: Stand for something this election

Whakatāne District Council today launches its 2025 local election campaign – Stand for Something: Tū Tūturu.

The campaign calls on people from all walks of life to step up, be heard, and lead where they live. It also encourages residents and ratepayers to enrol, vote and help shape the future of the Whakatāne District. 

Read the full article »

Māori Wards Poll

A binding poll in relation to Māori Wards will also be held alongside the election.

The poll will be held alongside the 2025 local body elections, with voting closing on Saturday, 11 October 2025.

• If the poll outcome is 'yes', then the Māori wards will remain in place for the 2028 and 2031 elections.
• If the poll outcome is 'no', then the Māori wards cannot be re-established for at least the 2028 and 2031 elections.

Find out more about the Māori Wards Poll

What you'll be voting for

Your community needs your voice. You'll be voting for representatives who will make decisions affecting your daily life for the next three years:

Mayor (elected district-wide)

10 Councillors from 6 wards:

• Rangitāiki General Ward (2 councillors)
• Te Urewera General Ward (1 councillor)
• Whakatāne-Ōhope General Ward (4 councillors)
• Rangitāiki Māori Ward (1 councillor)
• Kāpū-te-rangi Māori Ward (1 councillor)
• Toi ki Uta Māori Ward (1 councillor)

Community boards (24 members total)

• Whakatāne-Ōhope Community Board
• Rangitāiki Community Board
• Tāneatua Community Board
• Murupara Community Board

Pre Election Report

This October, you’ll get to vote for the Mayor and Councillors who best reflect your values and priorities for Whakatāne District. Your voice matters - whether you’re voting or thinking about standing as a candidate.

The decisions made by the Council affect all of us - from community facilities and services to the environment, infrastructure, and how land is used.

The Pre-Election Report gives voters and potential candidates useful information about Whakatāne District Council ahead of the 2025 local elections.

All you need to know about the Council | Pre Election Report 2025 »

Elections 2025 Timetable

Contact information

Electoral Officer
Dale Ofsoske
Independent Election Services Ltd
Phone: 0800 922 822
Email: dale.ofsoske@electionservices.co.nz

Deputy Electoral Officer
Chirese Viljoen
Whakatāne District Council
Phone: 07 306 0500
Email: chirese.viljoen@whakatane.govt.nz