Voting every three years isn’t the only way to be heard. Between elections, there are real, free ways to influence decisions.
Make a submission
When a bill is being examined by a select committee, anyone can send a submission saying what they think — for, against, or suggesting changes. You can even speak to the committee.
Petitions & your MP
You can start or sign a petition to Parliament, and you can write to or meet your local MP at their electorate clinic.
Ask for information (OIA)
Under the Official Information Act, anyone can ask a government department for information, and they must usually reply within 20 working days.
Arapono can help
Arapono’s Take Action studio helps you draft a submission, a letter to your MP, or an OIA request.
Test what you learned
Based on civics material from parliament.nz and the Electoral Commission (elections.nz). Non-partisan and free to use.