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Electoral System

Under the Local Electoral Act 2001 there are two voting options for Council in conducting its elections. The options are the first past the post system (FPP) and the single transferable vote option (STV).

First Past the Post System

Electors vote by indicating their preferred candidate and the candidate receiving the most votes is declared the winner.

Single Transferable Vote System

This system of voting is used for District Health Boards and some local authorities. Single Transferable Vote is a system under which voters rank candidates in order of preference. The number of votes required for a candidate to be elected (called a quota) depends on the number of positions to be filled and the number of valid votes. The necessary number of candidates to fill all vacancies is achieved first by the counting of first preferences and then by transfer of a proportion of votes received by any candidate where the number of votes for that candidate is in excess of the quota, and then by exclusion of the lowest polling candidates and the transfer of these votes in accordance with voters second preferences. For a more detailed explanation of this system visit www.stv.govt.nz.

Choice of Systems and Options for Change

Under the Local Electoral Act 2001, Council can resolve to change the electoral system to be used two years before a triennial election or conduct a binding poll on the question. Alternatively electors can initiate a poll so long as at least five per cent of electors have signed a petition for a poll. Once changed an electoral system must be used for at least the next two triennial elections.

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