Nau mai Welcome to the Electoral Commission

Supporting you to trust, value, understand and take part in New Zealand's democracy

Our system of government

Each voter has a say in who represents them in Parliament and in local government.

New Zealand usually has a general election every 3 years.

A referendum is a vote on a question. If you are enrolled to vote, you can vote in a referendum.

A referendum is a vote on a question.

Citizens or the government can start referendums.

In local elections, you choose who represents you on your councils and health boards.

If you’re enrolled, you can vote in local elections where you live.

The Māori Electoral Option lets voters of Māori descent choose which electoral roll they want to be on.

Help your community get ready to enrol and vote about what’s important to them.

From the Ancient Greek δῆμος (dêmos, “the people”) and κράτος (krátos, “power, rule”)

Get in touch with us and we'll help you find what you're looking for