NEW POLL: Queenstown Lakes Mayoral Race Wide Open as Voter Uncertainty Remains High

A new Taxpayers' Union - Curia poll of Queenstown Lakes voters shows that the mayoral race is wide open, ahead of the Taxpayers’ Union-hosted Mayoral Debate taking place in Queenstown tonight.

The independent poll of 500 residents found that while incumbent Glyn Lewers has the biggest support among voters, at just 11 percent, 71 percent of voters remain undecided.

Darren Rewi is on 6 percent, John Glover on 4 percent, Daniel Shand and Nik Kiddle on 2 percent each, and Al Angus on 1 percent.

On broader sentiment, only 28 percent of residents said Queenstown-Lakes is heading in the right direction, while 59 percent said the wrong direction — a net positive of -31 percent. 58 percent rated Queenstown Lakes District Council's performance as below average.

When asked about local issues, 77 percent of Queenstown Lakes residents said they support a cap on rates increases, while just 9 percent oppose and 13 percent are unsure.

Taxpayers’ Union spokesperson Tory Relf said the results show tonight’s debate will be a key opportunity for candidates to win over undecided voters.

“With nearly three quarters of Queenstown Lakes residents yet to make up their minds, tonight’s debate is going to matter. These results clearly show that voters have strong opinions on rates and the overall direction of Queenstown Lakes District Council. We are expecting a robust debate tonight as ratepayers decide for themselves who stands for them."

Footage of the debate will be available on the Taxpayers' Union social media tomorrow, Friday 12 September.