Low attendance at a public information evening about the upcoming local elections is not a reflection of low interest in politics, Queenstown Lakes Mayor Clive Geddes said.
Last week's meeting was held to inform potential council candidates about the nomination process and the work of a councillor.
The previous week, a meeting in Wanaka attracted more than 20 potential candidates, but only five members of the public attended last Wednesday's meeting in Queenstown.
"This is just one of many ways to get information about the process. The council has been fielding queries from other interested people ahead of the meeting. Not attending a public meeting does not mean people are not interested," Mr Geddes said.
At the meeting, council electoral officer Jane Robertson outlined the process of running for council.
Mr Geddes gave his account of what life as a councillor was like.
"From the day the result is announced, you are public property. This was overwhelming for me when I was first elected, and takes some getting used to."
"A councillor has to be open-minded, informed and, most of all, realistic. But there are plenty of opportunities to make a real difference," he said.
While the personal rewards for being on the council were "huge", candidates had to be realistic about the workload and expect to spend between 12 and 25 hours a week on council work, including meetings and preparation time.
Nominations open today.
Information about the election and nominations can be found at the council offices or online at www.qldc.govt.nz or www.elections2010.co.nz
