2 July 2013

Elections 2013: Candidate information sessions kick off

Are you considering standing in the 2013 Local Body Elections? Prospective candidates in Christchurch and Banks Peninsula have the chance to attend one of three candidates’ information sessions, commencing Thursday 4 July.

Those planning on attending the Thursday 11 July session at the Little River Service Centre are advised that it has been rescheduled from 10.30am to 2.30pm.

Held by the Christchurch City Council, the sessions will provide prospective candidates with an inside look at the nomination process and the work involved in representing the community as Mayor, Councillor or Community Board Member.

Outgoing Spreydon–Heathcote Councillor Barry Corbett and Shirley–Papanui Community Board member Chris Mene will speak and answer questions at the Christchurch sessions, offering an experienced perspective.

Electoral Officer Clare Sullivan says people must be over 18 years old, a New Zealand citizen and enrolled on the parliamentary electoral roll to stand for election – and urges prospective candidates of all ages and backgrounds to attend the information sessions.

“The broader the range of candidates, the better – especially in our post-earthquake environment, with Christchurch in need of truly representative leadership. It’s important to have a good mix of people, elected locally, to best represent the city. If you’re dedicated to your city and have entertained the notion of standing, now’s the time to commit to making a meaningful difference to Christchurch.

“Serving as an elected member is a hugely rewarding role – successful candidates act as major advocates for community interests and have a direct impact on future decisions that will be made about many of the city’s services, including earthquake recovery. These candidate information sessions are the perfect opportunity to become familiar with the process.”

Thursday 4 July
5.30pm, Function Room, first floor, Civic Offices, 53 Hereford Street

Saturday 6 July
9am, Function Room, first floor, Civic Offices, 53 Hereford Street

Thursday 11 July
2.30pm, Little River Service Centre (rescheduled from 10.30am)
Barry Corbett will be joined by Akaroa–Wairewa Community Board member Stewart Miller to speak to prospective candidates.

This year’s Local Government Elections will be held on Saturday 12 October and are by postal voting only. Nominations open at 9am on Friday 19 July.

For more information about standing in the local body elections, please visit www.ccc.govt.nz/elections or phone Clare Sullivan on 941 8533.

ENDS

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