Nominations for Auckland Council’s local elections open on Friday 4 July, and with just weeks to go, only a few candidates have confirmed they’re standing.

There are 171 positions to be filled across the region, including local board members, ward councillors, and one mayor.

But if there aren’t enough candidates, it could trigger costly by-elections in 2026.

For locals thinking about running, now’s the time to act.

Fewer candidates could mean a smoother path to election.

In some areas, like Rodney, if only one person stands for a single-seat ward, they’ll be elected unopposed.

And here’s something many people don’t realise: you can stand in any area, not just where you live.

You’ll need two nominators who are enrolled to vote in that ward.

Auckland Council’s Lou-Ann Ballantyne says candidates should get ready now: “Think about your candidate statement, your social media profiles, your community connections, and the issues that matter in your area.”

If no one stands in a particular ward or board by the midday 1 August deadline, an extraordinary vacancy will be declared, and a by-election will be held in March 2026.

The cost? It could range from thousands to millions, depending on the position.

To learn more or start your nomination, visit: voteauckland.co.nz/beacandidate

Know something local worth sharing?

Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.