Are You Enrolled to Vote?

With the 2026 General Election fast approaching, the Canterbury Workers Educational Association (CWEA) is encouraging Cantabrians to ask themselves one important question:

Through its Civic Engagement Project, the CWEA is helping reduce barriers to democratic participation by providing practical, non-partisan information about New Zealand’s electoral system, voting, and civic participation.  The project aims to ensure more people feel informed, confident, and ready to participate in this year’s election.

With support from the local Electoral Commission Community Engagement Manager, the initiative is being led by Jennifer Leahy as Civic Engagement Project Lead. She is working with community organisations, workplaces, and local groups across Canterbury. Information sessions cover topics such as enrolling to vote, understanding the voting process, what’s changing for the 2026 election, and how everyone can have their say with confidence.  Grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, the project recognises that democracy is strongest when everyone has the opportunity to participate.  Jennifer is keen to hear from community groups interested in hosting a free information session or exploring ways to encourage greater participation in the election. She will also provide a course in Term Four on “Courageous Political Conversations”.

After all, democracy starts with one simple question: Are you enrolled to vote?  Here is the link to enrol to vote or check if your details are correct – https://vote.nz/enrolling/enrol-or-update/enrol-or-update-online