How to Make Your Vote Count Under STV
By Andrew Simms, Dunedin Mayoral Candidate 2025
Local body elections are coming up, and I want to take a moment to talk about the STV (Single Transferable Vote) system we use here in Dunedin. Whether you vote for me or someone else, the most important thing is that you understand how your vote works and that you use it.
Why every vote counts
This will be a close election. Every single vote will matter, and your one vote could be the difference that tips your preferred candidate into the mayoral seat. Please, above all else, make sure you cast your vote.
How STV works
STV can sound complicated, but the idea is simple. You rank candidates in order of preference:
- Put a 1 next to your favourite candidate.
- Put a 2 next to another candidate you could live with.
- Keep going down the list for anyone else you would support.
You don’t have to rank everyone. If there are candidates you absolutely don’t want to see elected, leave them blank.
Why ranking matters
Under STV, you only ever have one vote. That vote will transfer to your next preferred candidate if your top choice is eliminated. This way, your vote isn’t wasted — it continues to work for someone you support.
For example:
- Say Paul is your top choice. You mark him as 1.
- You can live with Peter, so you mark him as 2.
- If Paul is eliminated, your vote moves to Peter.
- If you left Peter blank, your vote would stop counting in later rounds — effectively helping the candidates you least wanted.
The key is to rank those you support and leave blank those you don’t.
Why I support STV
Some people criticise STV, but I like it because it produces mayors and councillors with the broadest appeal. It’s a system that rewards consensus and balance, not division. In a city like Dunedin, that’s what we need.
Your role in Dunedin’s future
Elections aren’t just about who wins — they’re about participation. By taking the time to vote, you strengthen our local democracy and make sure Dunedin is shaped by the community, not by apathy.
I’m standing for Mayor because I believe Dunedin needs strong leadership, financial discipline, and a fresh vision. But whoever you vote for, please make sure your voice is heard.
Learn more
To learn more about the STV system and how it works — Check our video out here
And if you’d like to learn more about our policies and priorities, visit: https://futuredunedin.nz/andrew-simms
Vote 1: Andrew Simms for Mayor of Dunedin
Authorised by Andrew Simms, E. asimms@andrewsimms.co.nz, P. 0274346394
