Why are so many young people not enrolled to vote? As of June 30, just over 89% of New Zealand’s eligible population was enrolled to vote. That’s higher than the June 30 enrolment figures for the three previous election years.

However, the picture changes significantly when you focus on the 18- to 24-year-old demographic. Looking at the June 30 point in the six election years from 2011 to 2026, there has been a marked decline in the proportion of enrolled 18- to 24-year-olds. This year, it was just 53%, well down from 70% in 2011 and a sizeable drop from the 2023 rate of 60%.

Directed, filmed and edited by Isaiah Tour.
Written and presented by Robbie Nicol.
Made with the support of NZ On Air.