New enrolment data from the Electoral Commission shows rangatahi Māori are stepping up ahead of the 2025 local body elections — with Māori aged 18-34 now enrolled in higher numbers than any other age group of Māori voters.
Takitimu Māori Ward candidate Bevan O’Connor says the data is powerful.
“The numbers are positive but we want to see it translate to votes. They’re informed, getting enrolled. We hope the rangatahi will show up in greater numbers than their parents and kaumātua to vote,” says O’Connor.
“They’re switching on to the real issues — wai, whenua, pūtea, and the future they want for Aotearoa. This kōhanga of political awareness didn’t happen by accident. Our young people are coming through kura, reo Māori, and community spaces where law and policy are talked about. They’re ready.”
O’Connor is standing for Hastings District Council under the kaupapa of Mahi, Mana, Manaaki. He urges Māori voters who want to vote in the Māori Ward to switch to the Māori Roll by 10 July.
“We’re in a critical window. Māori on the General Roll aren’t able to vote for Māori Ward candidates. We’ve only got a couple of weeks left to change that. This election is do or die for the future of Māori wards.”
He says voter turnout — as well as enrolment — will decide whether Māori voices are truly heard at the council table.
“This is bigger than any one ward. It’s about recognising our rangatahi as political powerhouses, and what that will mean for all Māori in the local body elections and in next year’s general election too.”
O’Connor’s campaign is focused on driving kaupapa Māori leadership in local government, with a focus on strengthening community outcomes in taiao, pūtea and whānau. He believes the best way to achieve this is to stand proudly in mana Māori and educate whānau about how the system works and how to use it.
“We’ve got the numbers. We’ve got the whakaaro. Now we need to vote. Let’s use every tool we’ve got and that starts with the roll.”
—
This is Bevan’s first local body election campaign. He brings legal and policy expertise, a strong advocacy background, and a kaupapa Māori platform grounded in Mahi, Mana, Manaaki. He’s available for interviews or commentary on enrolment, Māori representation, the Māori wards referendum, and the importance of civic education.
