The Election Access Fund will be open to applications when there is an election or a by-election.
For the 2026 general election applications will be open for party selection activities from February 2025. The Fund will also be open for any by-elections.
When the Fund is open, it is important applicants read all information about the Fund carefully and prepare the documents needed. Some questions are optional, and we will indicate this throughout the application. Please give us as much information as you can, as this will help us process your application faster.
Before you begin your application, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria and understand the rules. You will also need to download and sign a legal declaration to declare you are eligible to apply and will use the fund appropriately. All forms needed for your application can be accessed here, along with why you need them and how best to fill them out:
We suggest you read through the application guidelines to understand what the Election Access Fund can be used for.
This information is also available in alternate formats.
Help with your application
If you need help to complete an application, we can meet with you. Meetings can be done by phone, or online by Zoom or Microsoft Teams. If you would prefer to complete this online, you can do so.
If you would like us to assist you to complete an application, please call 0800 36 76 56 or email us on electionaccessfund@elections.govt.nz with the following information:
- Your preferred method of contact (Phone call, Zoom, Microsoft Teams or other).
- If you will have a support person or agent with you, and if so, their name.
- Any support or access accommodations you need during the meeting, such as NZSL interpreters, electronic documents or text-based communication.
- Cultural support needs.
Preparing your application
Aside from filling out the application form, we require some separate documents. You will be asked to upload these at the end of the online process. If you are emailing or posting us your application you can include them with your completed application form.
You will need to include a budget as part of your application. If you are requesting equipment and or technology you will need to include recent quotes from suppliers.
For services, you will be asked to include any supporting documents you may have, for example an invoice from previous use of the service.