Democracy is reaching new heights in the Queenstown Lakes district.
Nominations are now officially open for the 2025 local elections and residents are being encouraged to put their names forward to stand as mayor, councillor or community board member, as part of a new campaign designed to engage voters across the region.
Dubbed "The Highest Vote", this year’s campaign puts an alpine spin on civic participation, with high-altitude ballot boxes set to appear at some of the region’s best-known mountaintop locations.
The Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC), in partnership with RealNZ, will have voting stations at Cardrona Alpine Resort (1670m) and Treble Cone (1260m), giving residents the chance to cast their vote while surrounded by the Southern Alps.
A special one-day voting box will also be available at the Crown Range lookout on Friday, October 10, providing what may be New Zealand’s most scenic polling booth.
The council’s aim is clear: boost voter turnout beyond previous levels.
In the last local election in 2022, just 43.05% of eligible voters in the district had their say, slightly below the national average of 44.5%.
Council chief executive Mike Theelen said the council was aiming higher this year, both figuratively and literally.
"Voting isn’t just about ticking a box — it’s about showing how much we care about the future of our environment and our community.
"Turnout in our last local election was 43%. This time we’re setting our sights higher, to exceed that and top the national average," Mr Theelen said.
Nominations opened last Friday and close at noon on Friday, August 1. To stand, candidates must be enrolled to vote and nominated by two voters from the ward or area they wish to represent.
No prior experience is necessary, and the council is encouraging people from all backgrounds to consider running.
Mr Theelen said how the district moved forward involved everyone who lived there.
"It’s important that our elected officials reflect the values and ideas of our diverse community.
"Now is a great time to learn more about the challenges and rewards — either for yourself or for friends and family who you think would make great local leaders."
Voting takes place from Tuesday, September 9, through to election day on Saturday, October 11. Voting papers will be delivered between September 9 and September 22.
Residents can vote by post, at local ballot boxes or at the special alpine voting stations.
— APL
