Poll Reveals Strong Māori Voter Engagement and Political Diversity Ahead of 2026 Election

A new Whakaata Māori–Curia poll released on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, highlights a dynamic and highly engaged Māori electorate as Aotearoa New Zealand approaches its next election. The data suggests that Māori voters are actively shaping the political landscape, with support spread across several parties that champion Māori interests and representation. According to the survey of 613 Māori voters conducted between October 15 and 22, the Labour Party remains a strong preference, holding 34% support. This follows a positive trend for Labour leader Chris Hipkins, whose rating as preferred prime minister among Māori respondents rose by 10 points to 26%. The Green Party has also emerged as a significant force within the community, maintaining a solid 18% support, reflecting a growing alignment between Māori voters and the party's platform. The poll underscores the unique strategic influence of Te Pāti Māori, which continues to engage the electorate through its specific candidate-focused strategy. While its party-vote support sits at 8%, the party's focus on electorate-level mobilization remains a key feature of the Māori political landscape. Other parties also feature in the diverse Māori voting profile, with New Zealand First at 9%, National at 7%, and the Opportunity Party at 4%. Journalist Māni Dunlop, reporting for Te Ao Māori News, noted that the survey captures a period of high mobilization within Māori communities. This engagement follows a term where iwi and Māori organizations have actively participated in national dialogues regarding Te Tiriti o Waitangi. With early voting already underway, the polling data reflects a community that is deeply involved in determining the future direction of the country’s leadership and ensuring Māori voices are heard at the highest levels of government.