Several of those standing, including Glenorchy activist Niki Gladding, Kinloch Lodge owner John Glover, and Queenstown Taxis owner Grant Scannell, have been vocal critics of the council's policies on growth and infrastructure.
They are up against seven other candidates for the six Wakatipu ward seats: businessman Peter Faul, Startup Queenstown Lakes co-founder AJ Mason, Frankton Community Association chairman Glyn Lewers, and incumbents Dr Valerie Miller, Penny Clark, John MacDonald, and Craig Ferguson.
Crs Alexa Forbes and Tony Hill are not seeking re-election.
It will be a three-horse race for the mayoralty.
Incumbent Jim Boult will face two-time mayoral candidate Al Angus and Nik Kiddle.
In Wanaka, seven people are vying for the three ward seats, including deputy mayor Calum MacLeod and incumbent councillor Quentin Smith.
They will be joined by Cherilyn Walthew, Barry Bruce, Lincoln Haworth, Niamh Shaw, and Vicki Spearing.
Arrowtown will have a new councillor, accountant Heath Copland, who is standing unopposed for the ward's lone seat, replacing Scott Stevens.
