Slow start to voting in Manukau City

Voting in this month's Manukau's local government elections is slower than at the same time in 2004. So far 13 per cent (28,488) votes have been returned, compared to 2004 when 15.7 per cent was returned.

Manukau City Council Electoral Officer John Skelton says, "We hope the numbers are down because people are taking the time to carefully select which candidate they want to support."

"But the clock is ticking. Take the opportunity to make your choice and post your votes back by Wednesday 10 October."

Manukau City Council is still running a campaign to raise awareness of the elections using billboards, buses and posters. It has also joined with other Auckland council's to encourage voter participation with radio advertising.

The campaign focuses on people returning their votes. Independent research showed that 28 per cent of Manukau voters in 2004 did not vote because they 'didn't get around to it/left it too late/didn't know the deadline.

A further 28 per cent said they 'didn't know enough about the candidates/not enough information.

On a positive note more than 230 people have asked to cast special votes. This means people who are not enrolled or did not receive their voting documents have been inspired to vote.

ENDS

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