Two candidates standing in by-election

The by-election for the Mataura Community Board has attracted two candidates. They are:

• Gina Adcock – nominated by Scott Bradbury and Lorraine Wright
• Neil Sinclair – nominated by Shelley Sinclair and Rocky Crown

The by-election to fill the vacancy on the board was triggered when only four candidates stood for the five-member board in the October local body elections.

Voting in the by-election will open on Friday 30 January 2026, with voting papers delivered to eligible electors from that date.

Voting will close at 12 noon on Tuesday 3 March 2026, with progress results released as soon as practicable.

Only people who are enrolled to vote and who live in, or own property within, the Mataura Ward are eligible to vote in this by-election.

Gore District Council Deputy Electoral Officer Frances Shepherd said it was important that eligible voters check they are correctly enrolled.

“Voting papers can only be sent to people who are on the electoral roll. If you are eligible to vote but are not enrolled, or your details are out of date, you need to do something about it before the enrolment deadline.”

Eligible voters have until 4:00pm Monday, 2 March 2026, to enrol or update their details.

Ratepayers who own property in the Mataura Ward, but live outside the area, and who are not listed on the final electoral roll, will need to complete a Ratepayer Enrolment Form. These electors will also have to cast a special vote.

The form is available from the Council’s main office or by clicking on this link.

Special voting will be available at the Council’s office during normal office hours, with additional special voting opportunities in Mataura to be confirmed early in the new year.

People can check if they are enrolled, enrol or update their details online via Vote NZ.