Canta’s Elections How To’s
Image by Glen Carrie on Unsplash
This ariticle was initially published in Canta’s Politics Issue 2025. This is an updated version to reflect corrections - Christchurch does not have a Māori roll/ward/constituency for local body elections.
We’re going to take a wild guess and say most of you reading this are eligible voters, and a lot of you might not know exactly what to do with this newfound title. That's where we come in. Welcome to Canta's Election How-to. This guide will cover everything you need to know about the upcoming Christchurch City Council Local Body Elections and the UCSA student executive elections.
Voting isn’t just about ticking the box of the candidate who you like the look of; it’s about figuring out how to use your vote to shape both your campus life and your city. Whether it’s deciding who makes meal deals at the Foundry or where the nearest bus route goes, these elections matter.
But don’t fret; this information will also come in handy for the 2026 General Election. So, by the time the two Chris’s face off again, you will know exactly how to exercise your voting rights.
University of Canterbury Association (UCSA) Student Executive Elections
What does the UCSA Exec do?
The student executive is responsible for representing student voice both on campus and out in the community. After discussing issues with students, the team engages with UC to provide feedback on what is working and what is not. They’re behind initiatives like Borrow-a-Bike and Foundry special meal deals. They also handle student wellbeing, academic issues and ensure all students feel they belong on campus, promoting a space where everyone can succeed.
The Executive is made up of fifteen student representatives, including the President, international student rep, as well as degree-specific and other portfolio representatives. Each member focuses on a specific area of student life, ensuring all voices across the UC community are heard and no group is left out of the conversation.
Why should I vote?
If you’ve ever benefited from UCSA events, petted the miniature horses, and enjoyed the free food (I know you love the snags), then you’ve already experienced the work of the student executive. Voting gives these students the power to make these moments happen. Beyond all the fun stuff, they are there to knuckle down and support you during your time at UC.
How can I find candidate information?
In the lead up to the elections, meet the candidates events will occur. This is a chance to hear them speak about why they want to run and what they want to achieve in their tenure. Keep an eye out for information across social media and the website. Before casting your vote, it’s essential to read candidates' profiles and choose someone who you think will represent you well and get the job done.
How do I vote?
Voting tends to open up in August with a form sent to your preferred student email. Unlike other elections, you don’t have to do a single thing to be eligible to vote. As long as you are a UC student, that email will hit your inbox.
Christchurch City Council Local Body Elections
What does the City Council do?
Local government is a crucial part of our democracy in Aotearoa. They’re responsible for making decisions for your entire community. Think transport, events, rates and how often your recycling bin is collected. Similarly to UCSA elected representatives, councillors are there to take on feedback and make changes in our systems.
The council is made up of a Mayor, ward councillors and community board members. A mayor is like a mini Prime minister for a specific area. Ward councillors are responsible for representing specific areas, like Riccarton and Hornby. A community board is made up of councillors and elected community board members. These boards meet regularly to hear submissions from the public and make decisions on localised issues. Christchurch has 16 ward councillors and six community boards. All support making Christchurch a better place.
While some other cities have a Māori roll for local body elections which those of Māori descent can opt to be a part of in order to vote for a candidate in a Māori ward/constituency this does not apply in Ōtautahi.
Wait, what, I have to enrol?
To take part in the local body elections, you must be enrolled.
Why should I vote?
Voting in the local body election means having a say in what Christchurch becomes. Want safer streets? Change in where rates go? Faster public transport? Changes start with the people in the local council. The people you vote for to represent you and your area will affect a lot of your everyday life.
How can I find candidate information?
Information on each candidate is online on the council’s website. You may also notice promotional signs across town for candidates running for the election. Take notice and do research about the people standing to represent you.
How do I vote?
Voting opens on the 9th of September and closes on the 11th of October, giving you just over a month to cast your vote. All council elections are held by a postal vote, which you need to fill out and send back for counting of the votes. There are also voting bins around where you can drop off your ballot.