Local Government Act 1993

If the number of candidates nominated for election as councillors for a ward or an area is greater than the number required to be elected for the ward or area, the election is to be a contested election.

If there are two or more candidates for election by the electors of an area as mayor of the area, there is to be a contested election for the office.

If a candidate who is nominated for election to a civic office in respect of a ward or area dies before the day when the poll at a contested election closes, the election fails in respect of that civic office for the ward or area.