Kids Voting - Making It Real
Poti Tamariki - Kia Tika Ra
Kids Voting gives Year Nine students the opportunity to participate in an authentic voting experience. Students vote for real candidates, on a real ballot paper, and compare the results from the Kids election with the results of the real election.
Kids Voting will be run nationwide this year to coincide with the 2007 local government elections. (The programme is not exclusive to Year Nine students but can be used for other age groups).
Kids Voting is designed to raise awareness among young people about New Zealand’s electoral processes. In New Zealand, as in most developed democracies, voter turnout is falling and levels of political engagement are low among young people. Building first-hand experience of active participation by young people will increase their personal understanding, belief and confidence in electoral participation.
Kapiti Coast District Council has registered as a participant in this programme and looks forward to working with local schools. Participation in the programme requires only some time - the materials are free and participants will be supported by both the Council Contact Officer and a national coordinator.
Visit the website http://www.kidsvoting.org.nz/ for more information and to register your School to be part of Kids Voting.