Time running out to find an election candidate

Kelly Van Gaalen resigned last month after being jailed for two years on a charge of possession of cannabis for supply.

With just days to go before nominations close no one has put a hand up to stand in in the Kaikohe-Hokianga Community Board byelection.

The vacancy, for one of three Kaikohe representatives, arose after the resignation of board member Kelly van Gaalen.

Mrs van Gaalen polled the highest of any candidate in the Kaikohe-Hokianga ward in the 2013 local government elections, but resigned last month after being jailed for two years on a charge of possession of cannabis for supply.

Board chairwoman Pauline Evans was concerned at the apparent lack of interest in the Kaikohe subdivision vacancy.

"The community board plays an important role in keeping the council informed of developments in our area and advocating for residents and ratepayers. 'Kaikohe has a number of significant issues and the board and the council need an active community-minded person to help ensure they get addressed. I hope that anyone interested will put their name forward before the closing date."

Nominations close at noon on Tuesday. Nomination papers are available from the council office in Memorial Ave, from the website www.fndc.govt.nz, or by phoning 0800 922 822.

Candidates must be New Zealand citizens and enrolled to vote. If more than one nomination is received, a postal ballot will be held in the Kaikohe subdivision with voting closing on October 28.

If no nominations are received, the board may decide to appoint someone, or leave the position vacant until the next election.