Local Democracy ReportingAuckland councillor calls for quake drills to become habit as over 700,000 join ShakeoutAlf Filipaina says the exercise turns safety into second nature and encourages schools, workplaces, and households to practise what to do during an earthquake or tsunami.Thu, 16 Oct
Local Democracy ReportingCracks in Auckland’s democracy - LeoniThe former Whau councillor says the postal voting system shuts people out and needs urgent reform.Mary AfemataWed, 15 Oct
Local Democracy ReportingFormer deputy mayor's re-election highlights Pasifika's rural reachMata’aga Hana Melania Fanene-Taiti shows Pacific leadership thrives beyond the cities as she begins her third term representing Waitaki’s largest ward.Mary AfemataTue, 14 Oct
Local Democracy ReportingIncreased vote count strengthens Pacific representation in Tāmaki MakaurauPreliminary results indicate a strong presence of Pacific leadership across Auckland and highlight how late votes can influence the city’s direction for the next three years.Mary AfemataMon, 13 Oct
Local Democracy ReportingFauono Ken Laban's historic win ushers in NZ’s potentially most diverse city councilA lifetime in service has led to a milestone achievement for Aotearoa, with Lower Hutt’s new mayor leading a council that mirrors the community's changing face.Mary AfemataMon, 13 Oct
Local Democracy ReportingFauono Ken Laban makes election history as Pasifika candidates win across New ZealandFrom Lower Hutt to Dunedin, Pasifika candidates have achieved major milestones in this year’s local elections, including the election of Aotearoa’s first Pacific mayor.Mary AfemataSat, 11 Oct
Local Democracy ReportingPasifika leaders and newcomers compete in Auckland electionsIn Tāmaki Makaurau, both experienced and emerging candidates have successfully secured key positions on local boards and community trusts.Mary AfemataSat, 11 Oct
Local Democracy Reporting‘It doesn’t feel like election day’: South Aucklanders cast final votes amid low turnoutVoting has ended in local elections, with South Aucklanders among the last to cast special votes. Many say the process felt unexciting, despite their desire to have their voices heard.Mary AfemataSat, 11 Oct
Local Democracy ReportingLocal elections: How to cast a special vote in Tāmaki MakaurauAucklanders who missed postal deadlines or didn’t receive their papers still have one final way to vote before polls close at midday Saturday.Mary AfemataFri, 10 Oct
Local Democracy ReportingPasifika candidate brings new voice to Timaru local electionSange Malama wants to inspire greater representation in local government and rebuild connections between residents and council.Mary AfemataFri, 10 Oct
