4 July 2006

Electoral Enrolment Centre

Over 18,000 Maori Change Roll Type - With Four Weeks Until Maori Electoral Option Ends

As the Maori Electoral Option enters its final phase, over 18,000 Maori have changed the type of electoral roll they are on, with another 7,286 enrolling for the first time.

“We’re entering the final weeks of the Maori Electoral Option. This means Maori who haven’t already taken part have to make their choice of whether to enrol on the General Roll or the Maori Roll no later than 2 August,” says Murray Wicks, National Manager of the Electoral Enrolment Centre.

“We know tens of thousands of Maori have already made their choice, which has seen people change roll type, enrol for the first time or decide to stay on the type of electoral roll they are already on,” says Mr Wicks.

Once the Maori Electoral Option is over the final numbers on the General and Maori Rolls will be used by Statistics New Zealand to help work out the number of General and Maori electorate MPs there will be in Parliament following the next two general elections.

To take part in the Option Maori need to either complete the Maori Electoral Option form sent in the mail in early April or fill in an enrolment form. Enrolment forms are available by freetexting your name and address to 3676, calling 0800 ENROL NOW (0800 36 76 56) or going to any PostShop. People can enrol or update their details online at www.elections.org.nz.

ENDS

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