Vote 2019 NZ!

Vote 2019 is your chance to help shape the future of your community, according to PSA Vice-President and Auckland Council delegate Benedict Ferguson.

“Local government elections matter because it’s your government,” he says.

“It affects so much of our daily lives - from the water that runs through your taps, to your local library, or the bus or train you catch.”

“Councillors make decisions that build our communities, such as the funding of huge infrastructure projects, or investing in social housing so everyone can have a warm dry home.”

LOW VOTER TURNOUT

But Benedict says a lack of knowledge about who the candidates are or even what councils do contributes to low voter turnout for local body elections.

In 2016 the total national voter turnout was just 43 percent.

A Local Government NZ survey found the main reasons people gave for not voting was not knowing enough about the candidates (33%), forgetting or leaving it too late (23%), being uninterested (16%) or too busy (16%).

“But I believe we all have a civic duty to get involved. When I hear people slagging off ‘bloody councillors’ I say to them who did you vote for? Have you been to a meeting?,” says Benedict.

“People think it’s just about rates, but there is actually so much more at stake. I’m proud to work in local government.”

#VOTE2019NZ

That’s why the PSA is a partner in Local Government NZ’s campaign to increase voter turnout and encourage greater participation in local democracy.

With the 18-29 age group recording the lowest voter turnout (34%) in 2016, it’s clear why young people are a focus of the campaign.

“We want to encourage democratic participation at a local level, and to educate young and old about the role local government plays in our social, environmental, economic and cultural well-being,” says PSA national secretary Glenn Barclay.

“So visit your council websites for more information about the candidates, look out for upcoming election debates and meetings, and take the opportunity to quiz candidates about whether their views align with your values.”

“And to all candidates, I urge you to fight these elections on the issues that matter – not by attacking hardworking council workers.”

We've produced a handy pullout poster highlighting the key issues which you can display in your workplace.

KEY DATES

• September 20-25 Voting documents delivered
• Septermber 20-October 12 Special voting period
• October 12 Election Day – voting closes midday

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