Voting for the Whakatāne District Council community board by-elections closes next week, but there is still time for residents to have their say.

By-elections are being held for the Galatea-Waiōhau Subdivision of the Murupara Community Board (one vacancy) and the Tāneatua Community Board (three vacancies). This follows the 2025 triennial elections, where insufficient nominations resulted in extraordinary vacancies.

Across both Tāneatua and Murupara, just over 11 percent of the enrolled voters had returned their votes by yesterday morning.

Council governance services manager Chirese Viljoen says voting is an important way for residents to shape the future of their communities.

“Community boards give local people a strong voice in decisions that affect their towns and neighbourhoods.

“Voting ensures you are choosing the people you trust to represent your community’s needs, priorities, and aspirations.”

Completed voting papers can be dropped off at council customer services or the Murupara Library & Service Centre.

Those who haven’t received their voting papers or have misplaced them are encouraged to visit the locations above, where an electoral official can assist with special votes.