Local faces are fronting a campaign in the Ashburton district encouraging people to stand and vote in the local elections later this year.

Seven people, a mix of ages and backgrounds, agreed to take part in the campaign and they will appear on posters, advertising and social media in the lead-up to the elections.

Ashburton District Council Chief Executive Hamish Riach said the campaign features some well-known people, and their photographs were taken at various spots around the district.

“How better to encourage people to vote, than to highlight our own people and some of the things that are important to our district.”

Mr Riach said none of the people featured in the campaign were standing for a position themselves.

“But they are keen to lend their support to this important message, and highlight issues such as supporting the local economy, rural communities, opportunities for young people and looking after our environment.”

Alongside the campaign, the Council has also launched a new website for the election period - voteashburton.nz - that will provide information for voters and candidates.

Mid Canterbury voters will elect a mayor, nine district councillors, five Methven Community Board members and six Braided Rivers Community Trust (formerly Ashburton Licensing Trust) members.

“Now’s the time to think of anyone who would be a good representative for the community on the Council, and encourage them to consider standing for election,” Mr Riach said.

The Council will be holding a free candidate information evening on Tuesday 19 July at 5.30pm to help potential candidates find out more about the election process and what’s involved with representing their community.

Later phases of the campaign will encourage residents to vote, with staff at the Ashburton Public Library ready to help people change their details online, or register as new voters.

“Enrolment packs are hitting mailboxes now, so please check your details are up-to-date or if you haven’t received one, then you should make sure you’re enrolled.”

The election will be held by postal vote and voting papers and information about the candidates will arrive in mailboxes from 16 September. Voting closes on Saturday 8 October.

For more information about the elections, visit voteashburton.nz.