Voting is now open for the Bay of Plenty Regional Council by-election for the vacant Eastern Bay General constituency seat.
Regional Council Chief Executive Fiona McTavish said the by-election allows Eastern Bay communities to have their say and help shape the region’s future.
“The decisions made around the Regional Council table have a real impact on local communities, from how we protect our environment to how we manage public transport, biosecurity, flood protection and regional planning,” she said.
“This is a chance for Eastern Bay voters to choose who speaks for them as the region works through some big changes.”
The five candidates confirmed in mid-July are former regional councillor Toi Iti, Victor Luca, Jessica Sneha Gray, Richard Collins and Dayle Hunia.
The by-election is required following the passing of Councillor Malcolm Campbell earlier this year.
Voting is by post using the First Past the Post (FPP) system. Under FPP, the candidate who receives the most votes is elected; they do not need to receive more than 50 per cent of the votes cast.
Voting papers were posted on Monday, 24 August.
Completed voting papers can be returned in the freepost envelope provided or placed in one of the orange voting bins located throughout the Eastern Bay General constituency.
Voters have until midday on Friday, 25 September to complete and return their voting papers.
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