It’s time to vote Palmy – check your letterbox for election papers

Published on 09 September 2025

Voting is now underway in Palmerston North, with council election papers arriving in letterboxes over the next few days.

You should receive your papers by 15 September. If they don’t arrive, please contact or visit us to cast a special vote.

All roles in Council are sought after, with four candidates for Mayor, 36 candidates standing for Te Hirawanui General Ward and three candidates for the Te Pūao Māori Ward councillor seats.

Deputy Electoral Officer Hannah White says now’s the time for people to think about the future they want for Palmy.

“This election, you’re choosing the mayor and councillors who will lead our city for the next three years, and you’ll also be deciding the future of Māori wards. This is your chance to influence where Palmy is heading. Do you like the direction we’re going, or do you want things done differently? Either way, the best way to influence the outcome is to vote.”

How to vote

• Fill in your voting papers at home. Rank candidates by preference - ‘1’ for your favourite, ‘2’ for your next choice, and so on. You don’t need to rank everyone.
• For the referendum question, you'll also be asked whether Palmerston North should keep or remove its Te Pūao Māori Ward. This referendum is a Government requirement and Council must follow the result for the 2028 and 2031 elections.
• Post your completed papers in one of the 55 bright orange ballot boxes around Palmy and our villages (including supermarkets and other busy spots), or into a DX mailbox. All locations are mapped on the How to Vote page and listed in the information guide you will receive with your voting papers.

Find out where to vote

Mrs White encourages people to make a plan to vote early, rather than leaving it to the last minute.

“Remember, there’s no online voting option. Fill out your voting papers, pop them back in the envelope, and keep them somewhere handy, like next to your car keys or dog lead, so you remember to drop them off on your way to work, school, or the shops.”

Voting closes at midday, Saturday 11 October.

Mrs White says the referendum is a key part of this year’s elections.

“Voters will decide whether to keep or remove the Te Pūao Māori Ward, which currently holds two seats on Council. And because the referendum is binding, the decision made at the ballot box will shape the future of representation in our city.”

If you want to learn more about the referendum or ask any questions, come along to our drop-in session on Saturday 13 September, 1–3pm at the Central Library.

“It’s not a formal presentation, just an open opportunity to ask questions and get clear information before casting your vote.”

Find out more about how to vote