Lead where you live — Now's the time to stand

With just 48 hours until nominations close, the Regional Government Partnership – Te Uru Kahika is calling on community-minded New Zealanders to put their names forward in the 2025 local elections.

Nominations close at 12 noon on Friday 1 August.

Regional and unitary councils make critical decisions that affect the environment, public transport, water quality, land use, flood protection, and climate resilience.

“If you want a say in how your region prepares for climate change, manages rivers and lakes, or invests in public transport, this is your opportunity to step up,” said New Zealand’s longest serving regional council Chair Doug Leeder.

Chair Leeder isn’t standing for re-election after 24 years in local government, 12 of which have been spent as Chair of Bay of Plenty Regional Council.

He encourages people from all walks of life to get involved in regional decision-making.

“Councillors don’t need to be experts, but they do need to be people who can listen, think about the issues, and want to make their communities and environment a great place to be.

“Regional and unitary councils collectively provide services and functions across all of New Zealand.

“These councils fund and manage large-scale public transport networks and infrastructure, reduce flood risk and manage land drainage schemes, lead civil defence and emergency management, monitor and manage water, soil, and air quality.

“Standing for council is a powerful way to make a long-term difference.

“Decisions made around the regional council table directly impact the health of our environment, the resilience of our communities, economic growth, and the opportunities we pass on to future generations,” said Chair Leeder.

Key information:

• Nominations close: 12 noon, Friday 1 August
• Who can stand: Any New Zealand citizen enrolled to vote