The Westland District Council consists of the Mayor and 12 Councillors. These positions are subject to election every three years. The next triennial election will be held in 2010.

Role of Elected Members

Elected members govern New Zealand Local Authorities by participating in legally constituted meetings of the Council and its committees. The members thus collectively exercise the powers, duties, authorities and responsibilities vested in the authority by the Local Government Act and other Acts. To be effective in this role, each member has a responsibility to be well informed about the issues on which decisions are required. This does not only mean reading the reports and other documents that are provided but also keeping in contact with various communities, residents, businesses etc. that are affected by the decisions so that their views may be considered. In the end, however decisions should be made in the best interest of the community as a whole.

Elected members are required to undertake specific roles arising from the legislation which determines Local Government's responsibilities.