NZ Election 2026

East Cape electorate

East Cape covers the central North Island’s east coast centres, including towns such as Whakātane, Ōpotiki, and Gisborne. The electorate has been established for this election, however its predecessor East Coast electorate was won by National’s Dana Kirkpatrick by a margin of 17,007 votes. Kirkpatrick will stand for East Cape in 2026. The electorate previously existed between 1978 and 1990.

East Cape candidates

Explore the candidates in your area

Jo Luxton

Labour Party

Darrin Hawkes

ACT Party

Cail Smith

Opportunity Party

Dana Kirkpatrick

National Party

Jordan Walker

Green Party

Jo Luxton

Labour Party

Why I'm standing

I'm running because I care deeply about the East Cape and the people who call it home. I've spent a lot of time listening to people across our communities, and I know many are doing it tough. I want our kids to see a future for themselves here, our whānau to have access to good jobs, healthcare and housing, and our communities to feel hopeful again. I'm running because I believe we can do better.

About me

Raised between Whakatāne and Gisborne, I know the East Cape and the realities our families face. I've experienced hardship and know what it takes to work hard and keep moving forward. I bring nine years in Parliament, including as a Minister, alongside experience in business and education. I know how to advocate, navigate government and get things done. I'll bring that experience, determination and deep connection to be a strong voice for the East Cape.

My priorities

  1. I'll put people first and fight for the healthcare, housing and security we all deserve.
  2. I'll champion sustainable growth, new industries and a resilient economy for generations to come.
  3. I'll back our young people with the skills, training and opportunities to build their future here.

Get across the policies, candidates and parties

Don’t know who to vote for? Policy.nz is the complete guide to the 2026 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 explainer

  • Enrol 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.