Play Your Part - Enrol to Vote

Why is the PPTA helping people get ready to vote?

Election law has changed since our last general election.

Recent changes to election law mean that pre-enrolment will determine whether or not New Zealanders can vote. People not enrolled to vote by October 25 won't be able to do so, and people who are enrolled in the wrong electorate will only be able to cast a party vote.

In 2023, around 450,000 people either enrolled to vote or updated their details during the early voting period or on election day.

It also limits the timeframe in which people on the Māori roll can elect to change to the General Role.

Those most affected will be Māori, Pasifika, young people, renters and those in unstable housing, because these groups are more likely to enrol or update their details during the voting period.Supporting people to vote is part of how we protect and promote democratic rights

As the union representing secondary teachers, we have a responsibility to stand up for our ākonga and protect their democratic rights. Many of our students turn 18 during election year. Restricting their ability to enrol and vote close to or on election day will undermine efforts to encourage lifelong civic participation, create a generation of disenfranchised youth, and signal that the system is not built to serve or welcome them.

Teachers are uniquely positioned to reach rangitahi and communities

Secondary teachers interact with rangitahi and their whānau every day. This makes them uniquely placed to reach those who need help navigating the electoral system. Teachers also possess the professional skills and commitment to help build relationships and teach others about the ins and outs of voting.

Play Your Part - Enrol to Vote Toolkit

This toolkit is designed to help you organise in your school or community to ensure that as many people as possible are enrolled to vote in the general election in November, and to make sure they have a plan for voting either on election day or earlier.