Thames-Coromandel: Local body election candidate Danny Topia dies

Danny Topia was a running for a seat on the Coromandel-Colville Community Board.

A local body election candidate in the Thames-Coromandel area has died.

Thames-Coromandel District Council said in a social media post this morning Danny Topia died yesterday.

He was a running for a seat on the Coromandel-Colville Community Board.

“He was due to speak, alongside others, at the local Meet the Candidates event in Coromandel Town last night,” the post said.

Thames-Coromandel District Council election candidate Danny Topia has died.

“Our council extends its heartfelt condolences to Topia’s whānau, friends and supporters.

“Topia’s candidate profile is included in the local election voting packs, which should have now arrived in people’s letterboxes.”

Any votes already cast for Topia will not be counted.

Voting remains open until midday October 11.

No Ngā Hau e Whā Māori constituency election after candidate death

No election will take place for the Waikato Regional Council Ngā Hau e Whā Māori constituency following the death of candidate Maxine Moana-Tuwhangai last month.

Moana-Tuwhangai died on August 16.

Waikato Regional Council said in a statement electoral officials had since worked closely and respectfully with her whānau and nominators during this difficult time to formally withdraw her nomination, in accordance with section 71 of the Local Electoral Act 2001.

“As a result of this withdrawal, Tipa Mahuta, the remaining candidate, has been elected unopposed, and no election will take place for the Ngā Hau e Whā Māori constituency.

“Voting documents had already been printed prior to the withdrawal and, due to time constraints, cannot be reprinted,” the council said.

“Voters in the Ngā Hau e Whā Māori Constituency will still receive voting packs showing both candidates’ names. However, these are no longer valid for voting in this constituency.”

Waikato Regional Council Chief Executive Chris McLay extended heartfelt condolences to the whānau of Moana-Tuwhangai.

“We are deeply saddened by Maxine’s passing. She made a significant contribution to the community, and her legacy will be remembered with great respect.”