Candidates step forward for Vincent Ward By-Election

Nominations for the Central Otago District Council (CODC) Vincent Ward by-election officially closed at midday today, with three candidates putting their names forward for the vacant seat.

The by-election was triggered following the resignation of Councillor-elect Dave McKenzie shortly after the October triennial elections. Because more than one nomination was received, a postal ballot will now be held to determine who will represent the Vincent Ward for the remainder of the 2025–2028 triennium. The following candidates will be vying for the Vincent Ward seat:

• Andrew Dowling
• Nat Jamieson
• Louise van der Voort

Central Otago Mayor Tamah Alley says the number of nominations reflects a healthy interest in local democracy.

"It’s great to see such a strong interest in representing the Vincent Ward," said Mayor Alley. "Having a range of candidates gives our residents a real choice in who they want to see advocating for their interests at the Council table. I encourage everyone in the ward to take the time to look at the candidate profiles and, most importantly, to make sure they cast their vote when papers arrive in late January."

Voting documents will be delivered via post starting Friday 30 January 2026. Residents are encouraged to return their completed voting papers as soon as they receive them to ensure they are counted.

• Friday 30 January 2026: Delivery of voting documents begins.
• Tuesday 3 March 2026 (12 noon): Voting closes.
• Tuesday 3 March 2026 (pm): Preliminary results expected to be available.
• Wednesday 4 March 2026: Official results announced.

For more information, please visit the Council’s website HERE