Plenty of straight talking was displayed by approximately 20 of Central’s young people at a speed-dating ‘Youth Meet the Candidates’ session in Alexandra on Tuesday evening (September 27).

The evening, organised by Puna Rangitahi, gave the year 12 and 13 Dunstan High students four minutes with each candidate standing in the CODC elections for the five councillor spots on the CODC’s Vincent Ward and four board member positions on the Vincent Community Board. 

Eight out of 11 candidates standing in the election, together with mayor Tim Cadogan, attended the speed dating session, and feedback on the swift moving nature of the ‘dates’ (questioning) was positive from all candidates.

Absences were Ian Cooney (who is standing for Vincent Ward), Lynley Claridge (who is standing for Vincent Ward and Vincent Community Board), and Dai Johns (who is standing for Vincent Community Board). 

After each four minute slot each pair of teens moved onto the next candidate to fire three or four questions at them. The questioning varied widely and covered a range of topics relevant to young people and Central’s environment.

Recurrent themes were sustainability, water, housing, economic growth, and engagement with youth.

Maz (17) asked Tracy Paterson about mātauranga Māori and how it would be implemented in CODC decision making, along with her personal opinion on Three Waters reform. 

Introductions and quick fire conversations; Roger Browne, Maz and Vivian

Jake Millar (18) and Vanessa (17) questioned Tamah Alley about her skills and background in governance that she would bring to the role. They also asked what initiatives she wanted to get off the ground for youth. 

Her key focus; Tracy Paterson talked to Isla and Maria about infrastructure challenges for Central

Central Otago Youth Council chair Tabitha Hildyard (18) talked to Tim Cadogan about two major issues for young people: climate change and mental health.

Tim said he recognised the need to change the way council and councillors communicate with youth, and that he was “invigorated” by the nature of the session.

“As a community leader I want to kōrero openly about the challenges of mental health.”

Jess and Emma (both 18 and due to vote for the first time) said they enjoyed attending and getting to meet the candidates in person. 

Jess asked Tony Hammington about why he was running and what he saw the major problems were to tackle in the community.

Tony listened to Jess and Emma as they questioned him on his motivation for running in the election

For those not old enough to vote this year, the session gave them useful background on the local election process and a chance to engage with politics and current issues in an informal way.

Voting in local elections has started, and it closes at midday on Saturday October 8. If you plan to complete your vote by post, send it in the freepost envelope by Tuesday October 4.  

For more information see the Election 2022 button on The Central App’s main menu.