By Josh Van Veen

With voting now open for the local government elections, the New Zealand Taxpayers’ Union has today launched its How to Vote Guide.

In local elections, where most candidates are independents, it can often be hard to know where they stand on key questions. The Taxpayers’ Union therefore asked all mayoral and council candidates for their positions on five pressing issues: rates increases, Three waters, wasteful council spending, decisions on Māori wards, and discouraging travel by by car.

Voters can visit howtovote.nz and put in their postcode to find their local candidates’ positions.

New Zealand Taxpayers’ Union Local Government Campaigns Manager, Josh Van Veen said:

“With central government pushing through its undemocratic Three Waters asset grab, and a raft of other changes underway, there has never been more at stake in local elections. Whether it is the establishment of Māori wards, big rate increases, or policies to force you out of your car – councils wield considerable power and influence. Make sure your vote is counted!

“So where do your local candidates stand on the issues? We’re making it easy. We asked them the questions that you care about and our How to Vote Guide puts their answers at your finger tips. This will help you make a more informed choice before you cast your ballot.”