Initial results for the Kawerau district local body elections shows all six of the current councillors that are standing will be returned.

The two new council positions, to fill seats vacated by David Sparks, who has moved out of the district, and Faylene Tunui, who has been elected unopposed as mayor, look likely to be filled by Justin Ross and Rowena Brooking.

Justin has a long history with Kawerau District Council as one of its first crop of youth councillors, and made a strong impression as young school teacher with lots of energy and passion for his community at a recent Meet the Candidates event at the Kawerau Town Hall. He is leading the voting with 1148 votes.

Close behind Justin is councillor Carolyn Ion, who currently holds the position of chairwoman of the projects and services committee, with 1142, Sela Kingi with 1127 and Berice Julian with 1113.

Warwick Godfery (1083), Rex Savage (1012) and Aaron Rangihika (986) are looking as though they will also retain their seats.

Of the four candidates that so far do not have enough votes to gain seats, Vivienne Wilson received 628 votes, Craig McLean received 590, Vannessa Worrall-Kurth received 558 and Louise Hiwarau received 499.

These progress results include all votes received up until Friday. Votes received on Saturday will be announced today, while results from special votes will not be announced until Thursday next week.

-Local Democracy Reporting is Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air