NEW POLL: Marcus Buddo leading Hastings mayoral race ahead of tonight's Taxpayers' Union debate

A new Taxpayers' Union - Curia poll of Hastings voters shows Marcus Buddo in the lead in the race for mayor, ahead of the Taxpayers’ Union-hosted Hastings Mayoral Debate taking place in Havelock North tonight.

The independent poll of 500 residents found Buddo has the support of 25 percent of decided voters, with Damon Harvey on 14 percent, and Wendy Schollum on 12 percent. 

Steve Gibson is on 9 percent, and Darrin Wilson on 3 percent. A large proportion, 28 percent of voters, remain undecided.

Damon Harvey has the highest name recognition at 65 percent, followed by Wendy Schollum on 59 percent. Steve Gibson follows on 51 percent, Marcus Buddo is on 45 percent, and Darrin Wilson on 33 percent.

On broader sentiment, 50 percent of residents said Hawke’s Bay is heading in the right direction, while 29 percent said the wrong direction — a net positive of +21 percent.

When asked about local issues, 70 percent of Hastings residents said they support a cap on rates increases, while just 21 percent oppose and 9 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 more than a quarter of Hastings residents yet to make up their minds, tonight’s debate is going to matter. Voters clearly care about rates and the direction of the region, so we expect some robust discussion as ratepayers get into who stands for them - and who stands against.

Footage of the debate will be available on the Taxpayers' Union social media tomorrow, Tuesday 9 September.