Local Election Progress Results Released

Published on October 11, 2025

Voting closed at 12 noon on Saturday, and the Progress Results for Horowhenua District Council and Te Awahou Foxton Community Board have now been released. 

The progress results are in, and the Horowhenua community have elected Mayor Bernie Wanden as their Mayor. We’re now also in a position to announce the progress results for our Ward Councillors. However, the current progress results show that in some of our wards, the vote is close, in fact, it’s too early to call as we currently count today’s votes and special votes. That’s why you might notice some missing positions listed below.  

Progress results confirm that the following Councillors are to be elected:  

• David Allan (Kere Kere General Ward)  

• Paul Olsen (Miranui General Ward)  

• Jo Mason (Levin General Ward)  

• Clint Grimstone (Levin General Ward)  

• Alan Young (Levin General Ward)  

• Mike Barker (Levin General Ward)  

• Sam Jennings (Waiopehu General Ward)  

• Nina Hori Te Pa (Horowhenua Māori Ward)  

To date the voter return is 40.2% or 10,302 votes, excluding special votes. This number will still grow as today’s votes and special votes arrive at the processing centre. These progress results are based on votes counted by electionz.com, based in Christchurch, and include votes up to the end of Friday 10 October. 

In this year’s local elections, voters were also asked to decide on the future of Māori wards. Preliminary results show that the vote is close – in fact, it’s too early to call as we currently count today’s votes and special votes. Every vote counts, and final results will confirm the community’s direction once all votes have been officially counted. We’ll keep you posted. 

Taking part in local elections is one of the most important ways to exercise your democratic voice. Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote and be part of this important kōrero about representation in our district. 

Monique Davidson, Council’s Chief Executive, says the local elections are a vital part of how communities shape their future. “Every person who voted helped shape the future direction of Horowhenua for the years ahead.” 

“I also want to acknowledge everyone who put their hand up to serve our community. It takes real courage to stand for local government, and we appreciate the passion each candidate brings to Horowhenua. As we navigate growth and change, strong and positive leadership will be key. Congratulations to our Mayor and Councillors.I look forward to working with you to achieve great things for our district.” 

Final Results, including special votes, will be released on Thursday 16 October 2025. 

Progress results for Council wards and Te Awahou Foxton Community Board are available at horowhenua.govt.nz/Elections2025. 

A Facebook Live session with Mayor Bernie Wanden is scheduled for 4pm today. Visit Horowhenua District Council’s Facebook page.