Polls close for the upcoming local body elections at midday this Saturday. Earlier this week, The Weekend Sun took to the streets of Tauranga to ask locals if they have or haven't cast their vote and why.

If you haven't posted your vote already, you will need to deliver it in person to the TCC Service Centre on 91 Willow Street or at Council Libraries in Tauranga, Greerton, Mount Maunganui or Papamoa.

If you don't have voting papers, you can also cast a special vote at the TCC Service Centre. Enrol online before casting your special vote at: www.vote.nz

Voting closes at midday this Saturday.

Hayley Kinnard, Papamoa

Are you voting?

I guess so, I have just moved here.

Why?

We need to have a say, that's about it.

Ilaria Di Giandomenico, Pyes Pa

Are you voting?

Probably yeah, I don't really know much about it.

Jarrod Levet, Tauranga

Are you voting?

I am, I have filled in the paper but I haven't posted it back yet.

Why?

I work at the council, but I would vote even if I didn't. I am hoping they can actually make some change.

Andrew Goodin, Te Puna

Are you voting?

Yes.

Why?

I just think it's the right thing to do, I have an opportunity so I should.

Olivia Stone, Bethlehem

Are you voting?

I have it sitting on my desk and I need to, I will vote.

Why?

More people need to vote, I know numbers are down at the moment. I will be basing it on the little paragraph in the booklet. I haven't done my research so that will be my basis.

Fred Kaiser, Pyes Pa

Are you voting?

No I haven't, and today's the last day.

Why?

I ran out of time, it's important because there is a bunch who will be representing us to a bunch of people who don't know us. The closer you have someone that can understand the local issues, the better the politics can become.

Troy London, Papamoa

Are you voting?

No, and I don't plan to.

Why?

I am just not that interested to be honest, it's not something I follow and I don't know much about it.