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Elected member expenses

Elected members can get their money back for costs that they have spent while doing council work. This only applies when they are acting in their official roles.

The Remuneration Authority (under the Local Government Act 2002) decides what allowances and expenses can be paid back.

For an expense to qualify, it must:

• have a valid council-related purpose, such as attending meetings, workshops, training, site visits, or community events (but not social events or anything related to election campaigns)
• be reasonable and sensible, so it is a good use of public money and can hold up to public criticism
• be an actual cost supported by an original tax receipt
• be approved by the appropriate person
• stay within the council’s budget limits
• be submitted using the council’s approved claim form and signed as accurate.
• follow the rules set by the Remuneration Authority.

Elections for District Health Board members are no longer held due to the Ministry of Health reforms in 2021.