Two resignations from Hastings District Council will trigger a postal by-election in the district, the Council has confirmed.
In a statement late today, the Council said Heretaunga Ward Councillor, Ann Redstone (pictured, left), has resigned after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, while Takitimu Māori Ward Councillor, Renata Nepe (pictured, right), has resigned to take up full-time employment.
Hastings Mayor, Sandra Hazlehurst, thanked Councillor Redstone for her seven years on Council.
“Ann has been a wonderful, dedicated councillor for the Heretaunga ward and wider Hastings. We will miss her around the council table but she must do what is best for her, and we wish her all the best for the future.”
Councillor Nepe was one of the councillors on Hastings’ inaugural Māori ward, Mrs Hazlehurst said.
“People’s circumstances change, and we thank Renata for stepping up to represent the Takitimu ward, and his contribution to Council and the community.”
Nominations to fill the two positions will open on 29 February and close at noon on 28 March. During that time, the electoral roll will be open to allow people to check their details.
If contested, the names of election candidates will be published on 4 April, with voting papers delivered to letterboxes of eligible voters (Heretaunga and Takitimu wards) around 2 May.
If uncontested, the successful nominee (s) will be announced. More information on the process, including candidate information and nomination forms, will be made available before 29 February here: hastingsdc.govt.nz/our-council/elections.
