Welcome

Over 8,000 students from 83 schools across New Zealand participated in the first national Kids Voting elections held in conjunction with the local government elections in 2007. Initial feedback from everyone involved indicates that the it was a roaring success. To view the results for your area click here 

To read stories from schools about how their Kids Voting Election day went, including some of the exciting preparations that took place click here 

If you'd like your school or council to take part in Kids Voting 2008, in conjunction with the parliamentary election, please click here

Kids Voting gives Year Nine students the opportunity to participate in an authentic voting experience.  Students vote for real candidates, on a real ballot paper, and compare the results from the Kids election with the results of the real election. 

Kids Voting is designed to raise awareness among young people about New Zealand’s electoral processes.  In New Zealand, as in most developed democracies, voter turnout is falling and levels of political engagement are low among young people.  Building first-hand experience of active participation by young people will increase their personal understanding, belief and confidence in electoral participation.  
Click here for more background information >>

To read a summary of our evaluation of Kids Voting 2007 click here

To apply for the position of National Coordinator for Kids Voting 2008 click here

Information for teachers

You can conduct a Kids Voting election with your class for the Parliamentary elections in 2008.  Kids Voting has been designed to fit with the Social Studies curriculum for Year Nine.

You will receive exact replicas of the ballot papers that adults in your area would receive so you can conduct an election in the week prior to the actual vote.  You will also get a ballot box and background information to enhance the experience and learning outcomes.  All materials are free.  

For more information for Teachers click here >>

Information for councils

Kids Voting is a great opportunity for Councils to encourage participation in local issues and local democracy by students and their families.

The materials are free and there is a national co-ordinator who will be working with you.   Your involvement will simply be to encourage the Year Nines in your district or city to get involved.

For more information for Councils click here >>