Public submissions are now open for residents to have their say on the representation of the Western Bay of Plenty District Council.

Western Bay Mayor James Denyer says representation lies at the heart of a thriving democracy and community “ensuring that the voices of everyone are heard, considered, and represented in decision-making processes”.

Councils are required to review their representation arrangements every six years to ensure it is effective and fair for the community.

This includes boundaries of districts’ voting wards and numbers of elected councillors.

“We last did a review in 2018 and our district has changed since then,” says James.

“Our community is evolving, and our representation arrangements need to keep pace.”

Population estimates, according to Stats NZ, show nearly 12,000 newcomers to the Western BOP – from 48,960 in June 2017 to 60,770 in June 2023 – since the 2018 Representation Review.

This includes the General Electoral population increasing from 43,000 to 53,500 and the Māori electoral population increasing from 5960 to 7240.

The district is also becoming increasingly diverse.

“So, it’s now time to review the representation arrangements and we’re keen to hear your feedback.”

As part of the ‘Do You Know: Representation Review Edition, Kei te mōhio koe: Te Putanga Arotake Whakaata’ process the council has already decided the First Past the Post electoral system will be used for the 2025 and 2028 Local Body Elections.

It’s also decided to establish Māori wards for the 2025 election.

Following this community kōrero, council will develop a draft proposal and check in with the community one more time later this year, July-August, before adopting the final arrangements.

Any changes will be in place for WBOPDC’s next election in 2025. 

To give feedback on the Representation Review, or to see where community events are being held, visit: https://haveyoursay.westernbay.govt.nz/rep-review-2024

Or you can grab a copy at council library and service centres or: email: haveyoursay@westernbay.govt.nz

Feedback closes 5pm Monday, April 15, 2024.