Francesca Rudkin: Why are there still so many undecided voters?

Driving around the country this week – mainly Auckland to the Central Plateau and back, you’d be forgiven for thinking there’s only one main political party in New Zealand and a couple of minor parties. Once I left the heavily placarded suburbs of Auckland, there was a smattering of Greens, Act and Te Pati Maori signs on the side of the road, but very few for Labour.  

This may be down to budget - Labour has only declared donations of $1.1 million. Even the Greens have managed $1.4 million. No one is close to National who have raised $8.2million.  

It may also have something to do with apathy. There’s nothing more damaging. Be it from candidates, volunteers or, worst of all, voters.  

Anecdotal evidence hints that some of our hearts aren’t quite in this election.  

It’s unlikely we will reach the same heights at the previous election in 2020 which had a near record turnout of just under 82 percent of eligible voters cast their vote. But why isn’t the turnout high at all times? Why don’t we value our say?  

Both main political parties have admitted there’s a mood for change – so why aren’t people more motivated to vote for that change? If the incumbent government is under threat, why can’t they convince their loyal voters it’s more important than ever to have their say.  

I’m amazed at the number of people who tell me they still aren’t sure who they will vote for – or if they will even vote. Clearly people don’t like what’s on offer. There’s not a huge difference between some of the two main party’s policies or fiscal intentions. Some potential voters aren’t convinced what is being offered is enough to drive substantial change or solve the country’s pressing issues.  

But it’s rare to find the perfect candidate or party. Generally we vote for the ‘best on offer’, but if we’re underwhelmed by what’s on offer its worth putting the effort in to give your vote to the ‘least-worse’. Someone’s got to govern - maybe your ‘lease-worst’ is worth giving a chance.  

Whatever you land on, it’s easy to vote– overseas voting is underway, and advanced voting starts Monday. I like the tradition of voting day -  but appreciate why some people are telling me they’re going to vote as soon as possible and then ignore the last few weeks of campaigning.  

Whenever, however, whoever, it's always worth casting a vote. 

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