Separating Fact from Fiction: Candidate Profiles and Voting Papers
There have been several articles published recently suggesting that candidates have been inadvertently left out of the Manawatū District Candidate Information Booklet. We’d like to clarify that this is not the case.
The Candidate Information Booklet is sent out with voting papers and is designed to reflect the voting documents electors receive. In this year’s election, both the Mayoral and Ngā Tapuae o Mātangi Māori Ward elections were uncontested. Under national electoral practice, profiles for uncontested candidates are not included in the booklet. This has been the norm across New Zealand since 2001.
This is not a decision made by Manawatū District Council. We are one of 20 councils across the country using the same electoral service provider where unopposed candidates are not featured in their profile booklets.
We encourage voters to get to know all candidates including those elected unopposed. You will find the candidate profiles and videos for Michael Ford (Mayor) and Bridget Bell (Ngā Tapuae o Mātangi Māori Ward) on our website [insert link].
Voting Papers Will Differ
Not all voting papers will look the same. Depending on which ward you live in and which electoral roll you’re on, your paper may differ from your neighbour’s. Each ward has its own set of candidates, but one thing is the same for everyone: all voters will have the chance to cast their vote in the referendums.
Candidate Information Booklet
Along with your papers, voters will receive a Candidate Information Booklet. This contains profiles of candidates in contested elections. It does not include the Mayoral or Ngā Tapuae o Mātangi Māori Ward candidates, as both were elected unopposed.
Michael Ford will be confirmed as Mayor, and Bridget Bell as Councillor for the Māori ward. While their profiles are not in the booklet– in line with regular electoral procedures – both feature in Candidate Profile videos available on the Manawatū District Council website.
Māori Ward Referendums
This election also includes a binding referendum that has been mandated by central government. Every voter, whether on the general or Māori roll, will decide whether the Māori ward (for the Manawatū District Council) and Māori constituencies (for Horizons Regional Council) continue for the 2028 election and beyond.
We’ve published some frequently asked questions on our website to help voters understand the referendum and Ngā Tapuae o Mātangi Māori Ward. Learn more here: Māori Ward Referendum | Manawatū District Council
How to Vote
To make your vote count, simply complete your voting paper, post it back in the prepaid envelope provided, or drop it into one of the 20 orange ballot bins across the district. Voting closes at 12 noon, Saturday 11 October.
Manawatū District Council is urging residents not to leave voting until the last minute, particularly if a special vote is required. For candidate videos, profiles and details on the Māori ward referendum, and details on how to cast a special vote, visit: Elections & Voting | Manawatū District Council