Just 32% of 21–25-year-olds voted in Wellington’s 2022 local elections, compared to 71% of those aged 81–85. This sharp drop shows a serious disconnect — young people are being left behind in the very decisions that impact them most.

Stronger Together is a new campaign dedicated to changing that.

“We’re creating a platform for young people to easily access local government, understand its importance, and be part of the change we urgently need,” says campaign lead Ethan Reille.

At its heart, Stronger Together is about more than just turnout. It’s about restoring trust in local democracy at a time when communities face a choice between division and collective action.

“Now more than ever, our local democracies are at a tipping point. We can either stoop to those who incite fear and division to get their way, or we can come together as a community and take collective action on the issues that matter to us all.”

Campaign goals:

• Increase youth voter turnout by making local elections relevant and accessible.
• Cut through misinformation with clear, honest information about local government.
• Highlight the positive impact councils have on our everyday lives.
• Empower young people to actively engage in local governance conversations.
• Advocate for a fairer, more representative democracy, including support for Māori wards and lowering the voting age to 16.

Stronger Together will reach young people through digital storytelling, on-the-ground community engagement, and collaborations with groups including Make It 16, Gen-Z Aotearoa, Generation Zero, and Victoria University Students’ Association.

“This is about reclaiming local democracy and making sure young people shape the future of Aotearoa’s cities and towns. That means standing up for representation through Māori wards, giving 16- and 17-year-olds a voice in our elections, and making sure councils are spaces for all of us. Local elections shape the places we live, the opportunities we have, and the future we’re building. We’re here to make it simple, accessible, and cut through the BS. This is ours to shape.”

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