Local body elections in Aotearoa New Zealand are your chance to have a say in how your community is run, from who sits on your local council to who makes decisions about your water, public transport, and community services. Enrolling to vote is easy and important, especially as local elections affect your day-to-day life more than many people realise.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to enrol so you’re ready to vote in the next local body elections.

To enrol and vote in local elections in New Zealand, you must be:

• At least 18 years old

• A New Zealand citizen or permanent resident

• Have lived in New Zealand continuously for at least 12 months at some time

You don’t need to own property to vote in your local area—you just need to live there.

1. Online (Easiest Method)

Visit the official Vote NZ website:
www.vote.nz

• Click “Enrol or update your details”

• You’ll need a valid NZ driver licence or NZ passport for online enrolment.

• You can update your address, name, or roll (General or Māori) anytime.

2. By Post

• Call 0800 36 76 56 to request an enrolment form, or download one from the Vote NZ website.

• Fill it out and post it back (freepost address is included on the form).

3. In Person

You can enrol at:

• Any PostShop (selected NZ Post branches)

• Council offices

• Public libraries

• Electoral Commission offices

Bring ID if possible and ask for help if needed -they’re there to assist.