With voting packs arriving in Hamiltonians’ letterboxes, Hamilton City Council is making it easier (and more fun) to vote in the local election and Maaori Ward Poll.
Your Neighbourhood – Election edition is a whaanau-friendly event where attendees can meet Council candidates, vote onsite, and bring the tamariki to enjoy the kids zone – and it’s free for attendees.
Your Neighbourhood – Election edition will be held in Garden Place on Saturday 27 September, 10am – 1pm.
Janet Carson, General Manager of Partnerships, Communication, and Maaori, encourages Hamiltonians to take this opportunity to learn more about the people standing for Council.
“If you’re curious about who’s running for Council, this is your chance to meet and chat with them in an informal and friendly environment, and hear their ideas for the city,” said Carson.
A Mayoral Candidate Q&A panel will be held from 11am – 12pm in the Hamilton City Council Reception Lounge. This is a free, ticketed event so people will need to request a ticket to attend. Tickets are limited.
The panel will be led by an independent moderator, with Mayoral candidates answering questions about how they would lead the city if elected, and how they would approach key issues affecting the city. This is a valuable opportunity for Hamiltonians to learn more about their potential Mayor before casting their vote.
If you miss out on a ticket, the Q&A will be livestreamed at the Central Library and on the Hamilton City Council Facebook page.
There’ll be something for everyone at Your Neighbourhood. For the kids, there’ll be facepainting, live performers, a mini ferris wheel, bouncy castle, an opportunity to operate a digger, and heaps more fun!
There’s plenty for adults too. You can vote onsite, learn more about Council services, enjoy a sausage sizzle, and meet Council candidates at the Candidate Café.
Janet Carson says, “This event is about more than just voting. Your Neighbourhood is a chance to ask questions, meet the people behind the names, and enjoy a great day out with your whaanau. This event will go ahead rain, hail, or shine.”
If you didn’t receive your voting papers in the post, or you forgot to enrol, you’ll also be able to cast a special vote at Your Neighbourhood. It’s quick, easy, and takes less than 10 minutes.
Come along and bring your whaanau and friends. Take action, Hamilton. The future depends on you!