Frequently Asked Questions
Who is responsible for electoral administration?
Until 1 July 2012, responsibility for electoral administration is split between:
- the Electoral Commission, an independent Crown entity; and
- the Chief Registrar of Electors, acting through the Electoral Enrolment Centre within New Zealand Post Limited.
Visit www.elections.org.nz/administration for a summary of the responsibilities of each of the electoral agencies.
What did the Electoral (Administration) Amendment Act 2010 do?
The Electoral (Administration) Amendment Act 2010 established a new Electoral Commission, which has been given overarching responsibility for electoral administration. The new Commission took over the responsibilities of the previous Electoral Commission and Chief Electoral Officer from 1 October 2010.
The second stage of electoral agency reform is implemented through the Electoral (Administration) Amendment Act 2011. This second Act transfers the functions of the Chief Registrar of Electors to the new Electoral Commission on 1 July 2012. Electoral agency reform is being implemented in two stages to avoid any disruption of electoral activity.
Why was a new electoral agency needed?
In general, electoral administration is carried out to a very high standard in New Zealand. However, the system can be improved. A fragmented electoral agency structure can lead to unnecessary duplication of effort between the agencies, difficulties in achieving a strategic overview, confusion over which agency holds responsibility for certain functions, and generally increased costs and complexity for political parties, constituency candidates and the general public.
The integration of electoral agencies will provide for better strategic oversight of electoral administration, maximise resources, and reduce associated costs and complexity.
Will the restructure impact on the next general election?
Electoral agency reform is being staged to ensure that transition to the new arrangements is managed smoothly and does not create risk for the administration of the general election or the MMP referendum being held in conjunction with it.
The new Electoral Commission began operating on 1 October 2010, approximately one year before the 2011 general election. This minimises risk to the running of the election and referendum. Every effort has been made to retain existing institutional knowledge.
Is the new Electoral Commission independent of the Government?
Yes. The new Electoral Commission is an independent Crown entity. The responsible Minister may not direct the Commission to give effect to, or have regard to, government policy.
In addition:
- the Governor-General appoints and removes Electoral Commissioners on the recommendation of the House of Representatives
- the Electoral Commission has a statutory duty to act independently in performing its statutory duties and functions and exercising its powers
- the Electoral Commission may provide information and advice to the Minister of Justice or the House of Representatives at any time and of its own volition.
Who governs the new Electoral Commission?
The Electoral Commission is a body corporate governed by a three member board - the Chairperson, Deputy Chairperson and Chief Electoral Officer. The members of the board are appointed by the Governor-General on the recommendation of the House of Representatives.
How is this linked with the electoral finance reform?
The transition to the new Electoral Commission was completed before the new electoral finance rules were enacted. The amalgamated electoral agency supports the consistent interpretation and application of the new rules.
What happens next?
The second stage of electoral agency reform is being implemented through a further Act. The Electoral (Administration) Amendment Act 2011 transfers the functions of the Chief Registrar of Electors to the new Electoral Commission on 1 October 2012.
Where can I get more information?
Access further information at:
