To honour those who've gone before us, who sacrificed much to secure our freedoms
and our democracy as New Zealanders, let me encourage every registered voter in 2016
– to think, pray and vote.
In 2013's local body elections only 37 per cent exercised this hard-won right, this means 63 per cent of us simply forgot, or avoided responsibility and decided not to
vote. Whatever was holding people back last time, I suggest not only are there some excellent candidates standing for mayor and council, but there are many important issues facing us as a family-friendly, dynamic and growing city.
Social, regional planning growth, historical and identity, economic, transport
issues and more.
Let's leave an enduring legacy our children will thank us for, because we took the time to think, pray and vote.

J Muir, Gate Pa.