Information for candidatesNgā kōrero whakamārama mā ngā kaitono

Running for Council is challenging, especially for first-timers. Putting yourself out there - campaigning, door-knocking, public speaking and debating - can be daunting. We totally get that. But help is at hand: LGNZ - Local Government New Zealand - have prepared a brilliant series of videos that'll give you a detailed insight into what you might expect if you put yourself forward for the 2019 elections. 

Here you'll be hear from real people - with real experience. We'll come back to the videos in a moment, but first some logistics. 

Fast facts for candidates

Candidate Preparation videos

Right. These videos. LGNZ have talked to the local government candidates who have been there, done that - and are keen to share their insights and experiences with you. Each clip starts with a short summary of what you can expect to learn about by the end of the video. We find it's best to watch them in the latest version of Chrome to avoid technical issues.

We hope these videos help you decide if being an elected member is for you, and if so, what role would suit you best. If you decide to run, then we wish you the very best of luck.

Oh, and if you need further information, then LGNZ's website is truly a trove for the aspiring candidate.

Video 1. Standing for local government

Purpose: To introduce you to the various elected member roles. Includes a description of what elected members do.              25 minutes

By the end of this video you'll be able to:

• Clarify the value of the elected member role and what can be achieved
• Describe the three types of local authority, and the roles within each
• Consider what elected members actually do.  

Video 2. What do you need to be an elected member?

Purpose: To help you think about the skills you will need to have and behaviours you will need to display as an elected member and what sort of support will be available to help.

By the end of this video you will be able to:

• Review the important skills needed to be an elected member and what behaviours you will need to display
• Clarify the value of diversity around the council table
• Think about what sort of things you might like to learn more about.

Video 3. How councils work

Purpose: To help you find out about how councils work and are funded.          16 minutes

By the end of this video you'll be able to:

• Describe how councils operate and are funded
• Explain how councils make decisions
• Find out about elected members’ pay.

Video 4. Nomination requirements

Purpose: If you have decided to run, this video will let you know the next steps.                3 minutes

By the end of this video you will be able to:

• Explain how the electoral process works
• Complete the local government nomination requirements
• Think about the types of campaigning methods that will work for you.

Video 5. Your first days as an elected member

Purpose: To give you an idea of what to expect if you get elected.         5 minutes

By the end of this video you'll be able to:

• Describe what happens in the first month after the election if you are elected
• Get important dates into your diary so that you're available for those essential first meetings.