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The Government is formed after a democratic election held every three years. New Zealand is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system of government called the Westminster model. This means that our head of state is a sovereign (currently King Charles III). The King is represented in New Zealand by the Governor-General.
Find out more about our system of government here How government works | New Zealand Government
Voting in general elections
New Zealand has a representative democracy. This means each voter helps choose who will represent people in Parliament and in local government.
General elections are how we vote for the people who represent us in Government. In New Zealand, we usually have a general election every three years.
If you are eligible to vote in New Zealand, you must enrol on the electoral roll. Enrolling and voting means you can have your say on the issues that affect you.
Remember to vote, you need to be enrolled (registered) at least 13 days before (Sunday 25 October 2026) for the general election on Saturday 7 November 2026. Check your enrolment details or Log into RealMe - Electoral Commission.
Find Your Electorate with your Address Here: Boundary Review 2025 | Elections
Here is a link for more information on What happens in a general election? | Elections NZ
Am I eligible to vote?
You can enrol to vote if you are 18 years or older, a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, and you’ve lived in New Zealand continuously for 12 months or more at some time in your life.
Find out if you’re eligible to vote.
How do I enrol to vote?
You can enrol to vote or update your enrolment details at vote.nz.
Enrolling online only takes 30 seconds at the Electoral Commission website.
Need help to vote? – Your options if you are unable to vote in a voting place.
When can I vote?
Voting starts about two weeks before election day. Many people vote early; this is called advance voting. You can vote any time before 7pm on election day.
How many votes do I have?
If you are enrolled to vote, you get two votes:
- Electorate vote – for the person (candidate) you want to represent your area (electorate).
- Party vote – for the political party you want to represent you in Parliament.