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Local Government Elections

Voting closes 12pm, Saturday 11 October 2025.

Every three years, Thames-Coromandel District Council (TCDC) holds local elections to choose the mayor, councillors, and community board members who make key decisions about our towns, services, future growth and the rates we pay.

By voting, you help shape which priorities and projects are championed over the next three years—affecting everything from major infrastructure like roading and water to local community facilities like parks.

Casting your vote is one of the most important ways you can influence who represents you in local government—your voice really does count.​

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To help you make an informed choice, we hosted a 'Meet the Candidates' meeting on 27th September which we recorded. The link to the video will be hosted here shortly:
 

Voting

Why Voting Matters

We often hear: “What’s the point of voting? Council doesn’t listen.” But with so many candidates stepping forward across the region, it’s clear people are seeking change.​​​​

Community Empowerment

Many residents are frustrated that council spending is out of control and that the enormous rates collected from our communities are not always reinvested locally.
With true community empowerment, local people decide the priorities and how money is spent—not council staff or councillors from other areas with their own agendas.

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Your Money, Your Community

Our rates should go toward infrastructure, services and facilities that enhance the physical and mental wellbeing of our communities. In the past, promises of transparency and accountability have fallen short. Community Boards have too often been spectators rather than decision-makers. This needs to change.

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Who is Standing?

This year, there are plenty of opportunities for your voice to be heard:

  • 6 candidates for TCDC Mayor

  • 5 candidates for 2 TCDC Councillor positions (South-East ward)

  • 6 candidates for 4 TCDC Whangamatā Community Board positions

  • 1 candidate for the TCDC Māori Ward

  • 2 candidates for 1 Waikato Regional Councillor position

Across the district, similar numbers of candidates are stepping up, showing a strong appetite for change.

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Make Your Voice Heard

It is crucial that ratepayers, residents and non-resident property owners participate in this election. Low voter turnout signals apathy and limits the potential for real change.

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How to Vote

Voting packs have been delivered, and voting closes noon, 11 October 2025.
If you’ve done your research and are confident in your preferred candidates, post your vote early. We encourage you to meet the candidates though.

Click on the tabs below to view who you can vote for in the local election:

Mayor

Coastal Grasslands Scene

  • 1 Position​

  • 6 Candidates

Council adopted its final representation proposal on 3 September 2024, confirming that the mayor will be elected at large, 9 councillors will be elected from the five General wards, and the new Māori ward will be added. Existing wards, community boards, and councillor numbers remain unchanged.

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At the same time as the October 2025 local elections there is also a referendum (ie a poll), where all registered voters in the district are being asked whether they wish to continue having a Māori ward ongoing.

Voting

How You Can Vote

You will receive your voting document in the mail. Once completed, you can submit it in one of the following ways:

  • Drop it in a ballot box located around the Coromandel. In Whangamatā, there is a ballot box at: TCDC, 620 Port Road, Whangamatā

  • Return it by mail using the freepost envelope provided.

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Make sure your vote reaches Council by 12 midday,  Saturday 11th October 2025.

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