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Auckland CouncilVote Auckland

How to become part of a political party, organisation or group

​Political party affiliations

An affiliation shows a candidate is officially supported by a political party, organisation or group - sharing agreement on ideas, beliefs or policies. A political party, organisation or group is sometimes referred to as a 'ticket'.

Affiliations can influence how people:

  • vote
  • participate in politics
  • view certain topics and issues.

Some examples from the 2022 Auckland local elections include:

  • Backing the Bays
  • City Vision
  • Citizens and Ratepayers- Communities and Residents
  • Green Party of Aotearoa
  • Labour Party
  • #lovemanurewa
  • Manurewa Action Team
  • Shore Action
  • Team Franklin
  • #weknowhowick.

How to run independently

If you are running on your own and are not part of an organisation or group, you can list your affiliation as 'independent' or leave this section blank.

How to join an existing affiliation

If you are interested in joining an existing affiliation, contact them directly to discuss membership in their group.

How to start your own affiliation

You can create your own affiliation. You do not need to register it in advance with an electoral officer before lodging your nomination.

To start your own affiliation or ticket:

  • form a group of like-minded people
  • choose a name which reflects your values or goals.

How to run as part of a ticket for the local elections

If you are running as part of a group, include a letter of consent from the organisation. This is called an 'authority to adopt the affiliation'. Submit this along with your nomination papers.

This process ensures affiliations are used legally and transparently.

Affiliations that will not be accepted

Affiliations that will not be accepted include those:

  • that might cause offence
  • are likely to confuse or mislead voters (for example, an affiliation that is too similar to another)
  • are election slogans rather than an organisation or group name.

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