Nominations open for Hawke’s Bay local elections - community leaders encouraged to step forward

Published: 7 July 2025

Nominations are now open for candidates wishing to stand in the 2025 local government elections across the Hawke’s Bay region.

From today, individuals can put themselves forward to contest mayoralty or council seats at Napier City Council, Hastings District Council, Hawke’s Bay Regional Council, Wairoa District Council and Central Hawke’s Bay District Council. Nominations close at 12 noon on Friday 1 August 2025.

The region’s five councils are encouraging a wide range of people from across the region to consider standing, noting the vital role elected representatives play in shaping the future of their communities.

Council chief executives are united on the value of local democracy and the impact elected representatives can have at a grassroots level.

Louise Miller, Chief Executive of Napier City Council, said local government offers the opportunity to directly influence the wellbeing of communities.

“Decisions made at the council table have a daily impact, from how neighbourhoods grow, to how climate challenges are tackled. This is a critical time for Napier and the region, and strong leadership is needed.”

Matthew Lawson, Chief Executive of Wairoa District Council, said Wairoa is built on strong community spirit and local leadership.

“We need people who know our place, understand our challenges, and want to stand up for their whānau, neighbours and communities. If you have got a heart for Wairoa and want to help shape its future, now is the time to step forward.”

Nigel Bickle, Chief Executive of Hastings District Council, highlighted the importance of representation that reflects the diversity of the district.

“The future of Hastings depends on the decisions made today. A wide range of perspectives around the council table ensures fairer, more inclusive outcomes for all.”

Dr Nic Peet, Chief Executive of Hawke’s Bay Regional Council, emphasised the significance of environmental leadership at the regional level.

“The Regional Council has a unique role in managing natural resources and preparing the region for the long-term impacts of climate change. Effective governance in this space is essential to future generations.”

Doug Tate, Chief Executive of Central Hawke’s Bay District Council, said this was an opportunity for people to help shape a Tamatea-Central Hawke’s Bay that we all want to live in.

“Central Hawke’s Bay has both challenges and opportunities facing it, and we need gutsy people who are willing to work hard. I’d urge anyone considering a tilt to ‘lift the lid’, read my pre-election report and know the lay of the land and what they can and can’t promise.”

Prospective candidates are encouraged to visit their local council website or elections.nz to find out more about nomination requirements, eligibility criteria, and key election dates.

Each council will also be publishing a pre-election report in the coming weeks, outlining the key issues, opportunities, and challenges facing their district or region to help inform candidates and voters alike.

The local election will be held by postal vote from 9 September to 11 October 2025.

Back to News Archive