Results are in!

Voting in local government elections closed at 12 noon on 11 October 2025.

Final results were provided on Saturday 18 October. They include the result of the Māori constituencies referendum.

Below the final results are the preliminary results (all votes apart from specials) and progressive results (about 85% of votes). We have posted both on this page so you can compare counts.

Click/tap here for final election results

Click/tap here for preliminary election results

Click/tap here for progressive election results

Click/tap here for voting return data for Palmerston North City Council

Click/tap here for voting return data for other councils

Pre-election report

The pre-election report provides information about upcoming key issues and projects which are important for Horizons Regional Council election candidates to know about. It has a particular focus on the financial performance of Horizons during the past three years, and Council's planned financial position for the next three years. This document is prepared by Horizons' Chief Executive independently of current councillors.  

Pre-election report

Election donations and expenses

Below is the list of election donations and expenses forms returned by candidates. We will update this as we get more forms returned.

Election donations and expenses (last updated 21/1/2026)

Regional Council responsibilities

Horizons Regional Council plays a key role in the management of natural resources in the Manawatū-Whanganui Region. This includes monitoring of freshwater, flood management, public transport, biodiversity and biosecurity. Horizons plays a varied and integral role in the environment. If the future of our region is important to you, then standing or voting in the 2025 local elections should be too. 

Visit the about section of our website to learn more about the area we cover and work we do. You can also watch the video below to learn more about the elections process, what being a councillor involves and why you should stand for election.

Elections 2025 timeline

  • Check you are enrolled to vote 01 September, 2024 to 01 August, 2025

  • Candidate nominations open 04 July, 2025 to 01 August, 2025

  • Voting papers sent to voters 09 September, 2025 to 22 September, 2025

  • Voting period (including special votes for those not enrolled) 09 September, 2025 to 11 October, 2025

  • Progress results published 11 October, 2025

  • Declaration of result 16 October, 2025 to 19 October, 2025

Click to expand

Want to know more?

For further information about Horizons Regional Council elections, please contact the Electoral Officer on 0508 800 800 or by emailing elections@horizons.govt.nz.
 
Disclaimer: Horizons Regional Council's websites and social media channels must not be used for electioneering purposes. We will immediately remove any content on our websites and social media channels (positive or negative) made by any individual specifically relating to their own or someone else's nomination, intention to run for council, or election campaign. More information about our Social Media Guidelines and Website Terms & Conditions can be found here.