Every Vote Counts: Kaipara Council Recount Bids Settled at Last
Three candidates from Kaipara District Council sought judicial recounts in the recent local elections, more than any other council in New Zealand. Outgoing councillor Mark Vincent, who narrowly missed re-election by just two votes, was refused a recount.
Unprecedented Number of Recount Applications
Kaipara District Council will be among the last in the country to formally swear in its newly elected members due to the delay caused by multiple recount requests. The council is one of only two in New Zealand where candidates requested judicial recounts, leading to postponed inauguration ceremonies.
Judicial Recount Process
Before the council can proceed with the swearing-in, a District Court judge must decide on the recount applications. Kaipara had three candidates seeking judicial recounts—the highest number among 78 councils nationwide. Such requests are typically rare, with only Kaipara and Porirua councils involved in recount bids during this election cycle.
Candidates Seeking Recounts
- Snow Tane, mayoral candidate
- Ash Nayyar, candidate for councillor
- Mark Vincent, outgoing councillor
Outcome for Mark Vincent
"Kelly declined Vincent’s application, saying he was not satisfied there were reasonable grounds to believe the election result declaration was incorrect."
Judge Kevin Kelly rejected Vincent’s request for a recount, concluding there was no sufficient evidence to challenge the election outcome.
Despite the narrow margin, the election results stood firm following judicial review.
Author’s Summary
The Kaipara council’s rare influx of recount requests delayed formal proceedings but ultimately upheld the election results, highlighting the significance of every single vote.