'Don't count yourself out': Porirua by-election candidate’s push for voter participation

A candidate in Porirua’s Onepoto General Ward by-election is encouraging people to vote after some family and friends mistakenly thought they lived outside the ward.

Sāmoan educator and community services leader Lealamanu'a Aiga Caroline Mareko, who is running in the by-election, says she wants greater voting participation so Pacific communities and Porirua East residents have a stronger voice when Porirua City Council decides how to spend money and plans for the city’s future.

Mareko has made a video explaining which suburbs the ward covers, prompted by confusion amongst her family and friends.

“Some of my family and friends said they couldn't vote for me because they didn't think they were part of the Onepoto ward, until I asked them where they lived," she said.

“So it's little bits like that, of information that is really important to clarify for our community and also to encourage our people, you know, you can participate and don't count yourself out.”

Mareko says her priorities, if elected, include fair access to council resources, greater community participation in local government and ensuring Porirua’s interests are heard in discussions about any future council amalgamation.

I'm involved in various governance bodies and committees and forums, but I felt this was the time for me to be at the table and give voice especially for our community here in the east.”

She wants Onepoto residents’ needs reflected in the council’s next long-term plan, including decisions about facilities, services and the environment.

The 2027–2037 plan will set out council investment, services and costs, including rates, over the next decade.

Public consultation is scheduled for March and April 2027, with adoption of the plan scheduled in June.

Mareko points to the recently opened Cannons Creek Library as an example of a facility that supports Porirua children, young people and the wider community, providing books, learning resources and a place to gather.

She says the library has been a long time coming and wants residents involved in identifying what else their ward needs.

On any future council amalgamation, she wants communities to understand what it would mean for Porirua, decide what they would be willing to accept, and stand firm on "our non-negotiables".

Mareko says communities need clear information about the value of voting to counter messages discouraging participation and the belief that one vote will not count.

The Onepoto General Ward boundary. Residents within the ward who are enrolled on the General Electoral Roll can vote in the by-election. Photo/Porirua City Council.

“But that one vote matters. Every vote matters. Everybody’s participation in any election is really, really important because that one vote is their voice.”

She says voting can help elect people who will make a difference for families and wants that message shared within communities.

Mareko recalls voting as a celebration in her family.

Turning 18 and becoming eligible to vote was a proud milestone for her parents, with her mother preparing baking and tea and her father accompanying them to the polling booth.

“That was a proud moment for them that we were participating in something very, very important.”

Her campaign has relied on existing relationships and social media.

“We've done a social media campaign. We haven't done a traditional campaign where we've had hoardings and door knocking and letterbox drops.”

She says her campaign began with family, friends and networks including churches and trade unions.

Two young people, including her nephew, are helping her reach families through Facebook and Instagram.

Mareko taught in Porirua East primary schools for about 18 years and worked for the Ministry of Education before joining what is now Whānau Manaaki Kindergartens.

She is the non-profit association's community services senior lead, overseeing Pacific and community services. Her team supports families to access services, and helps people into employment and training through Le Fale Jobs and Skills Hub in Cannons Creek.

She also serves as Aotea College’s school board presiding member.

Mareko is one of five candidates contesting the seat left vacant following the death of councillor Mike Duncan. The other candidates are Jo Dow, Zac Painting, Siobhan Samuel and Jess Te Huia.

Voting closes at noon on Friday 16 October. Completed voting papers must reach the electoral officer by that deadline.

Residents enrolled on the General Electoral Roll at an address within Onepoto General Ward can vote. The ward covers Aotea, Ascot Park, Cannons Creek, Elsdon, Kenepuru, Mana Island, Porirua City Centre, Rānui, Takapūwāhia, Tītahi Bay and Waitangirua.

People who enrolled after 6 August, have not received voting papers or are on the unpublished electoral roll need a special vote. They can contact elections@poriruacity.govt.nz or visit the council building at 16 Cobham Court.

LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.