WITH 50.07 per cent of eligible voters in Tararua making their voices heard in the last local body elections in 2011, Tararua District mayor Roly Ellis was pleased with the above-average turnout.
However, the statistics do have a negative side.
"We've always been low on young people voting," he said.
Urging people to vote, Mr Ellis said, "If you don't vote, don't moan.
"I believe people need to be connected with the issues which face their local district and by voting in the local body elections you have some influence.