"While there are guidelines to run the event on, there is plenty of opportunity to meet and talk to the candidates.
"Engagement in the democratic process is very important since council has a large part to play in your everyday life, from rubbish collection to clean water, and so understanding who will be making those decisions is equally important.
"A voter may have a set view but on listening to the different approaches of each candidate they may see that differently and like the way they think that potential leader could work in.
"The voter turnout has been poor in the last decade or so, and so we encourage people to at least vote, to have a say in their future, and if you come to one of these meetings and meet those candidates the voter may feel more inclined to vote."
Mrs Pankhurst said it was important for Tauranga residents to use their democratic right to vote.
"If these meetings help the voter make their choice then we the Chamber has played a part in a very important aspect of our community."
Today, Tauranga residents had the chance to meet the potential Tauranga City Council mayors from 5 to 7pm at Tauranga Art Gallery.
On Thursday, locals will have the same chance to meet potential Tauranga City Councillors from 5 to 7pm at Tauranga Art Gallery.
Questions would be taken randomly from the hat, and candidates would get an equal opportunity to answer them.