Heading Right to Demand a Poll on the Electoral System

Local Electoral Act 2001, sections 28 to 30

If Marlborough District Council is required to hold an election in 2028, notice is given under section 28 – 30 of the Local Electoral Act 2001 that Marlborough District Council will continue to use the Single Transferable Vote (STV) electoral system. STV will continue to apply for the 2028 and 2031 Marlborough District Council elections unless changed following a poll conducted under the Local Electoral Act 2001.

Electors of the Marlborough District have the right to demand a poll on whether the electoral system for Marlborough District Council elections should change from Single Transferable Vote (STV) to First Past the Post (FPP).

A valid demand for a poll must be:

• Made in writing
• Signed by no less than 5% of eligible electors enrolled within the Marlborough District. 5% is approximately 1,750 valid elector signatures based on current enrolment statistics.
• Every elector who signs a demand must also set out their full name and the address for which they are qualified as an elector of Marlborough District Council.

Any valid demand for a poll affecting the electoral system to be used for the 2028 and 2031 triennial elections must be received by Marlborough District Council no later than: Friday 11 December 2026.

Information on the poll process and the requirements for a valid demand may be obtained from:

Electoral Officer
Marlborough District Council
15 Seymour Street, Blenheim 7201
Phone: (03) 520 7400
Email: election@marlborough.govt.nz

On 6 August 2026 Council has resolved to not change its electoral system. Accordingly, Single Transferable Vote (STV) remains the electoral system for the 2028 Triennial Elections unless changed through the statutory poll process.

Dean Heiford
Electoral Officer
Marlborough District Council