Elected Members' Census

Since 1998, we’ve undertaken a census of elected members following each triennial election. Why? Because knowing who our elected representatives are, and why they stood, is crucial to ensuring our diverse communities are represented. The 2022 survey results are in: and the data is overwhelmingly positive. Along with increased gender and ethnic diversity, a trend first identified in 2016, the census shows that elected members are becoming younger, are increasingly likely to be female and are more likely to be Māori. These trends are an encouraging sign that our local democracy is becoming more inclusive. The information will be key to helping us not only improve understanding of local government at a community level, but also in assisting future policymakers and legislators looking to change the local government system.

Read the report