Elections 2010 stats - ups and downs
The Chatham Islands could show the rest of the country a thing or two when it comes to voting, with the Islands' residents turning out in numbers to vote in the recent local body elections. An impressive 71 per cent of voters had their voice heard in the local body elections - up seven points from 2007. Not bad for an area with just 363 eligible voters!
Runners-up were Mackenzie District - up a massive 15 points to 67 per cent; Kaikoura 66 per cent; and Westland 65 per cent.
It was generally good news across the rest of the country, with the average turnout nationwide up five points to 49 per cent. Mackenzie saw the greatest increase in turnout, followed by Opotiki with an increase of 13 per cent.
Ten mayors stood uncontested, which probably influenced lower turnout in their areas. Another 10 retired, and after the final ballots were added up, 26 new mayors were elected. Welcome to the world of local government, and welcome to all the other newcomers on councils and boards!
Thirteen of the 67 mayors elected are women - that's the same total as in 2007. They represent five provincial, six rural, and two metro councils.
The elections in Auckland were a key focus this year, and Mayor Len Brown and a brand-new council of 20, representing 13 wards and 21 local boards, taking effect on 1 November. The next three years are certainly going to be exciting!
Posted 1 November 2010
