While ORC has generally tracked well, voter turnout for local government elections in Otago overall has sat at less than 50% of those eligible over the past two elections – even though local government decisions concerning Otago’s environment, public transport services and urban development directly affect the region’s residents and ratepayers.

ORC Chief Executive Richard Saunders says, “We know people are busy and voting can slip down the ‘to do’ list. By voting in your local body elections, you’ll have your say on who will make important decisions on behalf of Otago communities for the next three years.”

“First time voters may be unaware of our role in natural hazards assessment, responding to civil defence emergencies, in water quality testing to make sure the places in Otago you love to spend your holidays are safe to swim.”

“If you have an interest in Otago’s unique biodiversity, our rivers and lakes, good public transport, and funding support for local community groups carrying out important environmental work, then you care enough vote.” 

With changes to the numbers of councillors in Dunedin and Dunstan wards and STV voting across the whole region, the 2025 Otago Regional Council elections will be a little different.

23 people have put their hats in the ring to stand for election to the Otago Regional Council. Find out who’s in the running here: https://www.orc.govt.nz/candidates

Voting opens today

Before voting, Mr Saunders is encouraging people to do their research, find out who is standing and what they stand for.

“As voting is by Single Transferable Vote or STV this year, you’ll be ranking the candidates in order of preference. With STV, your second or third choice could well get in, so you’ll want to make an informed choice.”

“Look in your letterbox for your voting papers to arrive from mid-September. If you didn’t enrol before August 1, don’t worry, from now until election day, 11 October, you can enrol online and make what’s called a ‘special vote.’ Special voting is done in person at your nearest territorial council office.”

“We really encourage anyone over 18 to get involved these elections, as every vote makes a difference,” he says.