About this mid-term election#

Some school boards opt into a mid-term election cycle. Mid-term elections are held 18 months after the triennial elections.

In 2025, the timing of the triennial elections was moved to September so we could finish updating the electronic voting accreditation process. This means that the next mid-term election is happening on 31 March 2027. 

We acknowledge that this timing may be challenging for school boards and your communities. We are working closely with GovHub (New Zealand School Board Association or NZSBA) to support and prepare you to run a successful mid-term election.

What you need to do#

Your school board needs to appoint a returning officer by 27 January 2027 (at least 63 days before the election date). Because this date is in the school holidays, we recommend you appoint a returning officer by the end of Term 4 2026. 

Once a returning officer is appointed, register your school's election with GovHub.

Register your election – School Board Elections

During Term 3 and 4 of 2026, your board should begin succession planning and promote the election within your community. You will need to call for nominations on 5 February 2027.

Learn more about school board elections and what you need to do to run one.

School board elections

Current parent representative terms#

Parent board members elected at the last mid-term election will stay on the school board until the day before the new parent representatives take office. Based on the 31 March 2027 election date, current parent representatives will stay on the board until:

• Tuesday 6 April 2027 if the election goes to a vote
• Tuesday 2 March 2027 if the election does not go to a vote.

Where to get support#

GovHub can help your board and returning officer with:

• running an election
• understanding election requirements
• encouraging community participation.

For help, contact the NZSBA.

Email: [email protected] 

Find more information and resources to help your board on the School Board Elections website.

Run an election – School Board Elections