If Not Now, When? Gender Equity in Local Democracy

Sep 5, 2025

In Auckland’s 2025 local elections, just 27 of the 92 candidates standing for mayoralty and councillor roles are women. That’s less than 30% female representation — in New Zealand’s largest and most diverse city.

This imbalance is jarring when compared with progress elsewhere. For five years running, women have made up 50% or more of public sector board members nationwide. Today, women hold 52.1% of board roles and 44.5% of chair positions.

This achievement didn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of deliberate, coordinated efforts by government agencies, advocacy groups, and leaders committed to inclusive governance. The Ministry for Women has played a pivotal role in tracking and promoting gender equity across public boards, and their data shows consistent progress.

So why, in 2025, are women so underrepresented in local democracy?

Structural Barriers to Women In Politics

Standing for election is harder for women. Research and lived experience show:

  • Women often have less disposable income to fund campaigns.

  • Women candidates are targeted more aggressively with online abuse.

  • Women are less visible in traditional political networks, limiting access to support.

These barriers are not about women’s ability to lead but about unequal opportunity. When fewer women stand, fewer women are elected. And that means communities lose out on perspectives and leadership that reflect the diversity of Auckland itself.

Why It Matters

Local government isn't abstract. Councils decide on transport, housing, climate resilience, parks, and community wellbeing. These are issues that shape our everyday lives.

Research is clear:

  • Gender-diverse leadership makes better decisions.

  • Diverse boards foster innovation and navigate challenges with greater agility.

  • Representation matters. When women see themselves reflected in leadership, it signals inclusion, opportunity, and belonging.

But when women are underrepresented, we risk missing out on vital perspectives and inclusive policymaking.

A Warning Sign

New Zealand is rightly proud of its reputation for gender equality. But the numbers in this election raise a red flag. If we can achieve parity in boardrooms yet slip backwards in local democracy, what does that say about the health of our systems?

This is more than just one election cycle. It’s about whether local government, the layer of democracy closest to people’s daily lives, will reflect the communities it serves.

What You Can Do

Auckland deserves a council that reflects its people. That won’t happen unless voters make equality part of their decision making.

  • Look at the candidates: See who is standing in your ward.

  • Ask questions: Who is committed to inclusive, representative leadership?

  • Use your vote: Support candidates who bring diverse voices and experiences to the table.

You can find the full list of candidates here:

This election is a chance to close the gap between our values and our representation. Let’s not wait for another cycle to start asking hard questions. Let’s make Auckland’s council truly reflect Auckland.

References: Fifth year in a row of equal gender representation on public sector boards | Ministry for Women About Women On Boards : Chartered Governance Institute New Zealand Candidates in the 2025 local elections | Vote Auckland