Marlborough District Council has voted against taking part in a proposed trial of online voting because of the cost.
Marlborough mayor Alistair Sowman says councillors support the concept but don't agree with the Government's position that councils should bear the financial responsibility for testing a new voting procedure.
Mr Sowman says the estimated cost to the region - more than $80,000 - was higher than expected.
Councils in Wellington, Palmerston North, Porirua and Whanganui have already agreed to take part in next year's trial.
Christchurch City Council has voted against it because of fears over hacking, while Dunedin City Council is set to vote on Monday.