Trustee Elections 2026

Could you be a WEL Energy Trust Trustee?
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WEL Energy Trust is inviting eligible people across the Waikato region to nominate for one of seven Trustee positions in the 2026 Elections. Nominations are open now until mid-day on 14 May 2026. This is an opportunity to take a meaningful role in governing a significant community asset that delivers electricity to homes and businesses across Hamilton, most of Waikato District, and part of Waipaa District.

About WEL Energy Trust
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WEL Energy Trust is the 100% shareholder of WEL Networks Ltd, the company that owns and operates the electricity distribution network for the Trust district. Trustees Govern the Trust and make decisions about:
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- Community grants (the Trust has allocated $10.5 million in grants in each of the last two years)
- The annual electricity rebate (millions are returned to eligible customers each year)
- Energy hardship reduction and energy initiatives
- Oversight of WEL Networks Ltd as a successful business

What does a Trustee do?
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Seven Trustees govern WEL Energy Trust. They are elected every three years by eligible electors on the parliamentary roll within the Trust boundary. Trustees:

- Attend regular Trust meetings and engage with governance matters
- Oversee the performance of WEL Networks Ltd
- Make decisions on grant distribution and community investment
- Set the annual customer rebate
- Help shape energy strategy for the Waikato region

Being a Trustee is a paid governance role. The time commitment involves regular Trust meetings plus engagement with key topics across energy, community and governance.

Who can nominate?
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You can nominate as a candidate if you:

- Are 18 years of age or older
- Live within the Trust district (Hamilton City, most of Waikato District, part of Waipaa District)
- Are on the parliamentary electoral roll within the Trust boundary
- Have two supporters (nominators) who are electricity consumers within the Trust district

The Trust values diverse skills and perspectives from across the community.

The nominations process

- Complete a nomination form with your details and two supporters' (nominators') details
- Submit a profile statement (up to 150 words) and a passport sized photograph - these will be included in voting packs sent to approximately 150,000 eligible electors

Download the Candidate Handbook for full guidance on the nominations process, campaign rules and what to expect.

Nominations open: 17 April 2026
Nominations close: 14 May 2026 (at mid-day)
Voting closes: 26 June 2026

The nomination form and other relevant documents are available below.