The race to be elected in October's local body elections has officially started with nominations now open for budding candidates.
On October 8, Northlanders will vote for members of the Whangarei (WDC), Far North (FNDC) and Kaipara (KDC) district councils, Northland Regional Council (NRC) and Northland District Health Board.
Nominations for those wanting to stand opened yesterday and close on August 12.
Candidates will generally promote themselves from the time their nominations are confirmed until the end of the election period.
Often they will use newspaper or radio advertising, billboards and leaflets delivered to mailboxes. Some may use the internet.