Elections
Every three years, communities across the district come together to choose their local council representatives - and 2025 is an election year.
From 9 September to 11 October 2025, voters will have the opportunity to decide who will represent their community by casting their vote in the local council elections.
Before you’re ready to vote, there are a few simple steps to take - and whether you're planning to vote or thinking about standing as a candidate, this page is your one-stop source for everything you need to know. Stay informed and make your voice count in 2025.
Meet the Candidate Events
Community organisations are welcome to host their own 'meet the candidate' sessions. To maintain political neutrality, the Council cannot assist with planning or delivery. However, we will promote the dates of confirmed third-party events on this webpage. A guidance document is available to help organisers plan and run successful engagements, including practical tips and suggestions.
Guidance for Hosting a Meet the Candidates Event (PDF file, 179.4 KB)
| Date & Time | Organisation | Details | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09 August 3.30 pm | It's in the Ballot | Feilding ward candidates. Live Election Q&A Showcase. Visit here for more details: Manawatu District Council – Fielding General Ward | itsintheballot.nz | Feilding Civic Centre |
| 09 August 6.30 pm | It's in the Ballot | Mayoral candidates. Live Election Q&A Showcase. Visit here for more details: Manawatu District Council – Manawatu District Mayoral Race | itsintheballot.nz | Feilding Civic Centre |
| 10 August 3.30 pm | It's in the Ballot | Māori ward candidates. Live Election Q&A Showcase. Visit here for more details: Manawatu District Council – Ngā Tapuae o Matangi Māori Ward | itsintheballot.nz | Feilding Civic Centre |
| 10 August 6.30 pm | It's in the Ballot | Rural ward candidates. Live Election Q&A Showcase. Visit here for more details: Manawatu District Council – Manawatū Rural Ward | itsintheballot.nz | Feilding Civic Centre |
| 14 August 7.30 pm | Hiwinui Community Committee | All election candidates. | Hiwinui School Hall |
| 25 August 7.00 pm | Rongotea Community Committee | All election candidates. | Te Kawau Memorial Recreation Centre |
| 09 September 9.30 am | Probus Club | Mayoral and Feilding ward candidates. Coffee/tea at 9.30 am, with the event beginning at 10.00 am. Mayoral candidates will have 7 minutes to address the audience, and Feilding ward councillor candidates will have 5 minutes. | Feilding Civic Centre |
| 10 September 6.00 pm - 9.30 pm | Rotary | All election candidates. | Feilding Civic Centre |
The Manawatū District Council's collateral including social media pages must not be used for electioneering purposes. Any posts - positive or negative - made by any individual specifically relating to their own - or someone else's - nomination, intention to run or election campaign, will be removed immediately.