Kia ora e te Whānau
Te Rūnanganui o Ngāti Hikairo is committed to ensuring our whānau have clear, accessible information ahead of the upcoming election. Below are the key dates and guidance you need to participate fully.
Key Election Dates
- Election Day: 7 November 2026
- Last day to register to vote: 25 October 2025
- Additional dates are available on the Electoral Commission website: Key information and dates | Elections NZ
How to Register to Vote
It is important that every eligible whānau member is enrolled and ready to vote.
You can:
- Check whether you are enrolled
- Update your details
- Complete a new enrolment
All of this can be done online through the Electoral Commission: How to enrol – Enrol or update online | Vote NZ
If you are not enrolled, simply follow the prompts to register online or request printed forms.
Enrolment forms will also be available at the Rūnanga AGM for those who prefer to complete them kanohi ki te kanohi.
Strategic Voting (Rūnanga Perspective)
Te Rūnanganui o Ngāti Hikairo encourages whānau to understand strategic voting — how your party vote and electorate vote can influence the number of Māori voices in Parliament.
We encourage you to watch the explanatory video on the Overhang Strategy – Election 2026: Overhang Strategy – Election 2026.
While the video uses an example, you are free to vote in the way that best reflects your own views and aspirations. The Rūnanga is not directing how you should vote; rather, we are supporting informed decision‑making.
Why Your Vote Matters (Rūnanga Perspective)
Te Rūnanganui o Ngāti Hikairo strongly encourages all eligible whānau to enrol and exercise your right to vote.
From the Rūnanga’s perspective, the current coalition government has not acted in ways that uphold the interests of Māori, Iwi, Hapū, and Whānau. We believe that change is needed to protect and advance our collective well-being.