The election hoardings are up in Hawke's Bay, which means the campaigning has begun in earnest.
Yes, it is that time of year when those wanting to represent us in Parliament tell us what they will do for us.
They certainly have not wasted any time and there are someinteresting slogans out there. There should be some fascinating tussles in the Bay with a few new (and not so new) faces seeking election.
Certainly, Lawrence Yule standing for National in Tukituki has stirred the pot a little. His battle with Labour candidate Anna Lorck will be one to watch, as will be how he deals with any fallout over the Havelock North water crisis.
One would have expected Ms Lorck to have started raising questions about his role in the crisis, but so far she has been quiet.
It would appear to be a deliberate strategy on her part, but things are bound to heat up in the weeks ahead.
Either way, Hawke's Bay Today will bring you full coverage of the contests in Napier, Tukituki, Ikaroa-Rawhiti and Wairarapa. We plan to give you as much information about the candidates and the issues as possible so you can make an informed choice in the elections.
We will also be holding public meetings where you can hear what each candidate has to say. So far the candidates in Napier, Tukituki and Ikaroa-Rawhiti have all agreed to participate. Last election we had quite large crowds at our debates and I expect the same this time.
We will have more details on each debate soon, but in the meantime let me know at editor@hbtoday.co.nz if there is any specific election issue you would like covered or any questions put to the candidates.
