Nominations are now open to fill a vacant position on the Te Puke community board.

A by-election has been triggered following the resignation of community board member Anish Paudel.

"Being a community board member is an incredible privilege and demonstrates the commitment that members have to their region," says a statement from the Western Bay of Plenty District Council.

"All our communities within the Western Bay of Plenty are diverse and unique, and being a community board member means that you represent your neighbours and your area on matters that affect them.  

"This community board member will foster strong networks and relationships with the community, stay connected and informed on local issues and pass information onto council to influence change and diverse decision-making for the betterment of Te Puke."

To be eligible to stand for election, you must be a Te Puke resident, enrolled to vote, and a New Zealand citizen.

They also must be nominated by two voting residents of the Te Puke Community Board area.  

If more than one candidate is nominated before midday Thursday, September 7, then it will go to a postal ballot. Residents in the Te Puke Community Board area will be asked to choose their newest representative in October.   

Nomination papers are now available from the following locations:

• Te Puke Library and Service Centre, 130 Jellicoe Street  
• Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s Main Office, Barkes Corner, 1484 Cameron Road, Greerton, Tauranga  
• www.westernbay.govt.nz/by-election-2023 
• Electoral 0800 number – 0800 922 822   

By-election key dates: 

• nominations open/roll open Thursday, August 10
• nominations close/roll closes midday Thursday, September 7
• voting opens Thursday, October 12
• voting closes midday Friday, November 3