Boundary review counter-objections released
Written submissions have closed on the proposed electorates for the next election with a total of 717 received.
The Representation Commission is reviewing the names and boundaries of electorates for the 2026 General Election. There are 636 written objections and 81 counter-objections in response. The objections were published on 8 May and the counter-objections have been published today.
“We would like to thank everyone who has taken time to make a written submission on the proposed boundaries. Their local knowledge and observations will help us as we consider the names and boundaries of electorates, and we look forward to hearing from submitters in person at public hearings next month,” says Representation Commission Chair Judge Kevin Kelly.
The proposed boundaries, objections and now counter-objections are available to view online at www.vote.nz. The most counter-objections were received for the following electorates:
- Wigram (13) – most oppose a submitter’s suggestion to include the Selwyn town of West Melton in the Wigram electorate. Several also write in support of the proposed boundary changes in the east of Wigram, around Spreydon.
- Southland (12) – some oppose suggestions from other submitters to move the Invercargill electorate boundary north to include Winton, and several oppose a suggestion to create a new Central-Lakes electorate.
- Ōtāhuhu (8) – some submitters argue Flat Bush should be retained in the Ōtāhuhu electorate, or that Ōtāhuhu should not be included in the Maungakiekie electorate.
- Kapiti (7) – some object to Porirua City Council’s submission on the proposed boundary around Papakōwhai, and the council’s suggestion to rename the electorate Mana.
Public hearings will be held on the following dates:
- Monday 9 June – Auckland
- Tuesday 10 June – Auckland
- Wednesday 11 June – Palmerston North
- Thursday 12 June – Christchurch
- Monday 16 June – Wellington
The electorate boundaries and names will be finalised in August.
Notes for the media
The Representation Commission is the independent body responsible for reviewing and adjusting electorate boundaries. Go to vote.nz/boundary-review for more information.
The Electoral Commission, Land Information New Zealand and Stats NZ provide administrative support to the Representation Commission.