Kaikōura electorate
Kaikōura is currently held by National's Stuart Smith, who won comfortably with a margin of 2,295. In 2020, Labour won the greatest share of party votes in Kaikōura – 44% to National's 30%. National has held the seat since its establishment in 1996. It is New Zealand's fourth largest general electorate by area, covering over 21,000 square kilometres.
Kaikōura candidates
Explore the candidates in your area
Emma Dewhirst
Why I'm standing
Our electorate has been taken for granted for too long. I am throwing my weight behind Labour because they put people first. Compassion, fairness and solidarity resonate deeply within me and the things I care most about: ending environmental degradation; caring for our children; good health and housing. This election, all of this is at stake and I am in it for you.
About me
I care deeply about people and our environment. My background is in project management – I get things done. Relationship building; collaboration and getting up to speed quickly are all critical skills I bring. I believe if you work hard you should be able to get ahead. Also, looking after our seniors and our young people. I will be accessible and listen to what you have to say and take it across the Strait.
My priorities
- End environmental degradation by decarbonising our economy and supporting technology investments.
- Care for our children by ensuring warm, dry houses; lift incomes and support our education system.
- Advocate for affordable housing throughout our region for both buyers and renters.
Get across the policies, candidates and parties
Don’t know who to vote for? Policy.nz is the complete guide to the 2023 general election. Compare the parties, candidates and policies to see where you stand.
Policies
Compare the parties’ positions on the key issues this election
Candidates
See the electorate candidates running in your local area
Parties
Learn about each political party, its leaders and candidate list
Things to know...
Your two votes shape New Zealand’s next parliament. You need to be enrolled to vote.
Read explainerEnrol to vote by Sunday 25 October
You need to be enrolled before you can vote. You can enrol online at vote.nz.
Voting day is Saturday 7 November
Head to your nearest voting place on the day, or vote early from 26 October.
You get two votes
One for a party (the party vote) and one for a person in your area (the electorate vote).
Your party vote is the most powerful
It decides how many seats each party gets in Parliament. That’s what Policy helps you figure out.
