With the election period nearing its halfway point, all voting packs have now been delivered across Mid Canterbury.

However, Group Manager of Democracy and Engagement Toni Durham said residents who haven’t received their papers or forgot to enrol before the deadline, can still participate through special voting right up until election day.

“We don’t want anyone to miss the opportunity to vote, so we’re trying to make special voting as accessible as possible.”

Before casting a special vote, people will need to be enrolled. This can be done by visiting vote.nz, calling 0800 36 76 56 or free texting their name and address to 3676.

“Alternatively, pop into Ashburton Library or Customer Services any time, and our team will help you with enrolling or updating your details,” said Toni.

Once enrolled, residents can visit Council’s Customer Service desk at 2 Baring Square East to request their special voting document. Voting can be completed on the spot and papers dropped into the orange ballot bin located onsite.

Toni said the Council was mindful of those who were unable to visit during office hours or would like further help, so they were providing a special voting drop-in session at Ashburton Library on Saturday 4 October from 10am until 2pm.

“Whoever is elected will have a big impact on our lives over the next three years, so if you haven’t received a voting pack or you’re unsure of what to do, don’t let that stop you from making your voice heard.

“We have staff here ready to help and it only takes a few minutes to get you enrolled and provided with a voting paper.”

Voting in the local elections closes at noon on Saturday 11 October. As of Monday evening, 2558 votes had been received, equivalent to 11.13 per cent of enrolled voters. Voter turnout for the Ashburton District in 2019 was 50.62 per cent.

Find out more about special voting and the candidates at voteashburton.nz