The Uncommon Bonds annual elections typically commence in late May or early June, with the entire process spanning approximately 6-8 weeks from initial nominations to final results.

Nomination Phase (2-3 weeks)

The election cycle begins with a call for nominations, where eligible members can nominate candidates for both the Steering Committee (including the Treasurer position) and Ethics Committee. During this period, members submit their nominations through designated channels, often proposing multiple candidates for each committee. This phase allows the community to identify potential leaders from within their ranks.

Candidate Confirmation (1-2 weeks)

Once nominations close, all nominated individuals are contacted to confirm whether they wish to stand for election. Nominees must verify their eligibility by confirming they meet key requirements: being at least 18 years old, having been a member for at least 12 months, residing in the greater Christchurch area, and having attended recent UB events. Those accepting nomination also provide a brief biography outlining their experience and vision for the role.

Voting Period (2-3 weeks)

The voting phase typically opens in late June and runs for approximately two weeks. Eligible members receive access codes and can cast their votes through the designated voting system. The 2024 election, for example, ran from June 24th to July 7th, closing at 11:59 PM. Members vote to fill five positions on each committee, with the Treasurer role being specifically designated within the Steering Committee.

Results and Transition

Election results are announced shortly after voting closes, typically within 2-3 days. The announcement is made through multiple channels including the UB website, mailing list, FetLife, and at the monthly Munch gathering. Successful candidates then begin their transition into their new roles, ensuring continuity of governance for the Uncommon Bonds community.

Our 2025/2026 Elections have started

We are currently in the nomination acceptance phase

Information submitted by the Members Standing for the Steering Committee

Hayseed_NZ Being in the community for just over two years now, I've enjoyed helping out where I can and would love the opportunity to do more and give back to the community. I am still learning but if people decide they want me on the steering committee, you can be assured that I'll give it my all.

mr meaner As a long-standing member of Uncommon Bonds, I'm stepping forward to serve on the Ethics Committee with a desire to give back to our community. My years of observation have given me insight into our diverse membership while maintaining a respectful presence throughout. I bring a level-headed approach, combining compassion with strong values. I'm committed to fairness—considering multiple perspectives while upholding community standards. I care deeply about Uncommon Bonds and am ready to help maintain the safe, consensual environment we've all worked to create.

MrsM1971 I am well respected in the local community. I have a great understanding on how to organise and run successful events. I have a background in middle management and managing people

Oh-Eurydice and/or Rose I've been part of the local scene since 2018 and recently started running the UB Women's Group. I've helped run events and managed teams in both kink and professional work settings, and I'm comfortable with the kind of behind-the-scenes organising this role involves. I'm practical, a good communicator, and care about helping the community run in a way that feels equitable and inclusive.

ChameleonPrince Hey all! As a pretty keen kinkster, and vocal community member, I decided to accept my nomination onto steering. Thank you to whoever put me forward. 

I believe the community has been sitting in limbo for some time, with backwards and forwards struggle for direction. I also believe, in order to move forward, we need to reevaluate and strengthen the core of the community as that is vital to its survival. And as we grow as a community, and as individuals, allowing our methods to grow and be reevaluated seems a positive step in the right direction. 

We are all here for the same reasons, to enjoy and learn about kink, meet wonderful people, and be protected whilst doing so. 

I am incredibly dedicated to our community, and want nothing more than to see it thrive and be a positive, safe and consensual space. We have enough dedicated individuals, to make that a reality. 

Time for teamwork!

Information submitted by Members Standing for the Ethics Committee

Ar0ha Kia ora, I am Aroha. I've been in the scene since 2019. I understand how our community runs, and it's ever evolving nature. I do my best to approach difficult situations with compassion, care, and understanding. I think I have skills which could aide the ethics committee and our community :)

Blondkittygood I support people who have experienced SA, as well as mental health issues. I am a prolific writer who writes on everything from the importance of consent to keeping yourself safe in the kink community. I run a well attended monthly vanilla event for kinky people called Drinks at The Brewery, which consistently gets good feedback from attendees. I regularly support both UB and non UB members, when they reach out to me.

The Ethics Committee needs to serve our community. I have recently put forward a proposal to UB that modernises the current EC document, while keeping its core values. If I was on the committee I would encourage people to come forward when their consent has been breeched, and then make sure they feel heard and supported. I think the Ethics Committee is an incredibly important part of Uncommon Bonds, and we need to make sure it functions well for all our members. I would do my very best to make sure it does.

Curlsncurves I have been a member of UB for 8 years. A bit of a behind the scenes type person, I regularly attend events and have helped with party setups and pack downs. I am also a UB greeter.  I feel I would be able to assess issues that arise and help form solutions that benefit our community in an honest and fair manner.

Fuck_Off_Cunt I'm an autistic cunt

mr meaner As a long-standing member of Uncommon Bonds, I'm stepping forward to serve on the Ethics Committee with a desire to give back to our community. My years of observation have given me insight into our diverse membership while maintaining a respectful presence throughout. I bring a level-headed approach, combining compassion with strong values. I'm committed to fairness—considering multiple perspectives while upholding community standards. I care deeply about Uncommon Bonds and am ready to help maintain the safe, consensual environment we've all worked to create.

MyLittleBitch I have worked in the field of health both mentally and physically and managed a lot of conflict over the years within these roles. Often misunderstandings are the reasons for issues that arise; not always, and having someone to discuss issues with confidentiality wrapped around these discussions can resolve them - the proviso with confidentiality is that what is discussed must not threaten any danger whatsoever. This is a skill I currently perform with colleagues so I would love to offer it to the kink world if you would like.

Norty I have been in the scene for 17 years, having seen and heard many things and also have life experience too. I feel that I can be impartial in resolving conflicts.

NZLongNeck Dom male 56 that has a lovely sub. Interested in helping with a safer community.

Oh-Eurydice and/or Rose I'm standing for the Ethics Committee because I care deeply about making our community a safer and more supportive place for everyone. I value truth, kindness, fairness, and equity, and I believe these principles are vital to ethical decision-making. I've been active in the local scene since 2018 and have recently taken on the role of running the UB Women's Group.

My background includes experience in general counselling and working with people in rehabilitation programs, as well as running events in both kink and professional settings. I've managed teams in hospitality, which has sharpened my ability to stay calm under pressure and resolve conflict with care. I'm a good listener, and I take a methodical, thoughtful approach to understanding and synthesising information. I believe I can bring both empathy and clarity to the committee's work.

Tasty Hi I might not come across the most ethical person in the world, but I actually am. I believe in UB and its place in the kink community. I think I'm in a good fit for this position as I see things quite clearly I'm open to listening to what other people are saying and helping them come to a better understanding of what the other person could be thinking. I have been involved with the Canterbury community for almost 9yrs now and it that time I have grown to appreciate how UB works and I feel like I have the time and resources to step up and support the local community Thanks Tasty