Māngere records among New Zealand’s lowest voter turnout, residents cite trust and housing woes
About 38% of registered voters in Māngere did not vote in the 2023 election, the lowest rate in the country, with locals pointing to distrust, housing problems and other hardships as reasons.
In the 2023 election, 38% of enrolled voters in the Māngere electorate failed to cast a ballot, the lowest turnout nationwide compared with a 23% non-voting rate across New Zealand. Interviewees described a range of barriers: Hilly cited lifelong distrust and a lack of family support, while Raymond Mariner expressed shock and urged safer streets. Sohail Younus mentioned declining property values, rising interest rates and drug-related crime, urging parties to help struggling residents.
Others, like Sandy and Nancy, linked personal loss and homelessness to their voting decisions, and Charlene stressed food-price inflation and skepticism about the electoral system’s fairness. Several respondents said they intend to vote this year, hoping the next government will tackle housing, crime, corruption and support for the elderly.
Why it matters
Low turnout in Māngere highlights how socioeconomic challenges can suppress democratic participation.
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