LGNZ Calls for Centralized Provider to Run Local Elections Due to Errors in Maori Ward Treatment

New Zealanders' trust in local elections and the upcoming Maori wards referendum is at risk due to recent errors in treating Maori ward candidates. Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) Interim Chief Executive Scott Necklen has emphasized the importance of consistent and fair treatment of all candidates and voters. These errors have affected council voting packs for Whanganui, Opotiki, and South Wairarapa district councils. LGNZ wants New Zealanders to have the right information to make an informed decision, which in these cases did not initially happen.

Key Takeaways:

• LGNZ has called for centralized provider to run local elections due to recent errors in treating Maori ward candidates affecting Whanganui, Opotiki, and South Wairarapa district councils.
• Errors have compromised public trust in local elections and the upcoming Maori wards referendum.
• LGNZ's Electoral Reform Working Group has released 20 recommendations, including running local elections by the Electoral Commission from 2028 onwards.
• Centralized provider is needed to ensure consistency for all candidates and voters.
• LGNZ wants voters to have the right information to make an informed decision and ensure the visibility and voices of Maori ward candidates are represented.

Statistics:

• 3 council voting packs were affected by errors in treating Maori ward candidates.
• LGNZ's Electoral Reform Working Group has made 20 recommendations for the future of local elections.
• Local elections should be run by the Electoral Commission from 2028 onwards, according to LGNZ.

Sources:

• Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ).