By-Election on Hold

The Hurunui District Council is waiting for Alert Level 2 for a by-election in its West Ward.

The resignation of Jason Fletcher as a West Ward Councillor has resulted in a vacancy on the council. To ensure a fair and democratic process the Hurunui District Council is waiting until the district is in Alert Level 2 before commencing the election process.

Hurunui District Council Electoral Officer Naomi Woodham explained the district’s access to electoral rolls is up to date and electionz.com has been briefed and is standing by, ready to support the processes required to carry out a by-election - including public notices, the printing of voter packs, access to mail system and engagement of JP’s etc.

“As we get the announcement from the government that we are moving to Level 2, we will be able to get underway,” she said. “Although the by-election is a postal vote, we determined that democracy would not be best served at Level 3 or 4.”

“A key part of elections is the opportunity for voters to meet their candidates at public forums and for candidates to campaign/door-knock with their prospective constituents if they wish. These opportunities are not permissible under Levels 3 or 4,” said Woodham.