Want to match the names of Council candidates to faces, and learn more about the people? You're in luck.

Photos and profiles for those standing in Western Bay of Plenty District Council's election are now online at generationchange.nz, to help the community get to know the people vying for their votes.

Council CEO John Holyoake is very pleased with the diversity and number of candidates who may represent the District soon, as voters get ready to approach the ballot boxes.

'The Western Bay community will be deciding in the coming weeks about who they want to represent them moving forward. These profiles give voters a chance to learn a bit more about our candidates and ensure they can make an informed decision when it's time to put pen to paper.”

Like all council candidates across the country, part of the candidate nomination process is sharing why, in 150 words or less, they want to represent their community. They have also provided a photo of themselves to sit next to their profile.

But these profiles are not the only opportunity our Western Bay whānau has to get to know candidates. In September, Council will be sharing answers from a voluntary questionnaire. Candidates have been asked pātai (questions) that include their perspective on some issues the new Council may encounter and some more light-hearted insights.

'These candidates are people too, and they're more than the roles they're hoping to fill. So, we've asked them what they love about the Western Bay, and what they like to do for fun,” says John.

'We look forward to sharing this content with everyone soon.”

Candidates will also be answering pātai during the Meet the Candidate Debate series, including those sent in by locals, as well as pātai on themes relevant to the Western Bay.

Debates begin on Monday August 29, and the Mayoral debate takes place on September 1. Information on debates is available on generationchange.nz.

Other key dates to remember are for voting, which begins on September 16 2022. Voting closes at noon on Saturday October 8 2022.

'Getting to know your candidates today will help shape the tomorrow of our District. Get online, get to know the people that want your vote, and most importantly – get to a ballot box and have your say,” says John.