Lawrence Yule: Elections chance to shape the future

Lawrence Yule.

Local elections turnout in New Zealand has been declining since the 1980s, falling below 50 per cent since 1998.

While turnout varies significantly across age groups and geographic areas, overall, not enough New Zealanders participate in local government - by having their say, by voting or by standing for office.

LGNZ's 10-month Vote16 campaign, running until the 8 October polling date, aims to lift voter numbers above 50 per cent nationally for the first time since 1998.

Advocating for stronger local democracy is one of LGNZ's seven key policy priorities. That involves supporting community decision-making abilities through locally and democratically elected representatives - including making voting easier as with the plan to offer an online voting option in 2016, with eight councils set to take part.

Delivering value to our communities

Local government aims to deliver top quality value to New Zealand communities while shaping them into places in which all Kiwis want to live, work and play.

The 2015 New Zealand Local Government Survey shows that local government can improve engagement with communities and businesses nationwide on the infrastructure, services and local issues that matter most to them.

Research tells us what matters are the tangible, visible issues; whether it's clean rivers and efficient transport or strong local economies, communities want to know more so they can decide how well their council and councillors will deliver on campaign promises.

Thus we aim to expand engagement with communities on these issues and others - building stronger, more resilient communities.

Ultimately, how well local government performs impacts on how well communities, citizens and businesses prosper both now and well into the future.

Shaping our future

Local government in New Zealand faces major challenges, from economic, environmental and climate change to infrastructure development - all in the face of rapid demographic change.

So we need elected representatives who have the skills to meet these challenges.

Our citizens need representatives who understand their unique issues and opportunities and have the passion to make the best communities.

By encouraging talented, committed people to stand for office and voting in your local elections you can influence positive outcomes in your community.

Have your say

Research shows a significant number of citizens are interested in the local government process but do not vote, or, want to vote but say it was too hard to find the information to make an informed decision.

LGNZ's Vote16 campaign will ensure voters have access to the information they need about local candidates and about the voting process.

I urge New Zealanders to discuss the issues that are important and find out how they can get involved and have their say in how to shape the future they want.

By choosing to stand in your community or by voting this October, you will have a direct role in shaping the future of your community.

- Lawrence Yule is president of LGNZ