Have your say in New Zealand’s Electoral Review

What is happening? 

This month the Independent Electoral Review, established by the Minister of Justice, began its first stage of engagement on the future of New Zealand’s electoral system. Elections are a critical part of our democracy and this is a broad review of New Zealand’s electoral laws covering aspects such as how elections work, voting rights for overseas-based New Zealanders, voting methods, voting age, the length of the Parliamentary term, political donations, election campaigns, and the thresholds for parties to enter Parliament under MMP. 

There are some broader constitutional matters that are not being considered by the Review. This includes alternatives to the MMP voting system, re-establishing an Upper House, the role and functions of the Head of State, the current size of Parliament, and the future of the Māori electorate seats. Online voting is also out of scope.

How can I take part? 

If you are keen to have your say, the consultation document is available here, and written submissions are invited until 14 November. You can answer as many questions as you like, or just share your views without answering the questions. The Review welcomes submissions on a single issue, a few issues, or the whole review. You are encouraged to share what matters most to you within the Terms of Reference. 

There will be a second chance to engage with the review from April 2023 after the Panel has produced its draft recommendations from this current round of consultation. This will give the public the opportunity to see how their input has been used and provide further feedback, to inform the Panel’s final report.