There has been a surge in young New Zealanders signing up to vote in next month’s general election.
Since August 1, the Electoral Commission has enrolled 16,694 people in the 18-29 age bracket.
In the same period, Jacinda Ardern became Labour leader and James Shaw became the sole leader of the Green Party after Metiria Turei’s resignation.
So while it has been a time of ups and downs for political parties, it seems something has engaged young voters.
And as for who is voting, the Electoral Commission says enrolments are already higher this year than three years ago.
There are 3,167,252 names on the roll. Enrolments will remain open until September 22.
‘‘We’re very pleased with the increase in enrolments and we expect another big jump before election day,’’ chief electoral officer Alicia Wright said.
‘‘You need to be enrolled to be able to vote and have your say in this election, so if you’re not on the roll already, get it sorted now.’
