School Board Elections

NZSBA works in partnership with the Ministry of Education to support the school board election process and promote community engagement and participation.

What are triennial elections? 

Every three years, state and state-integrated school communities vote for the representatives that will govern their schools. Parents and caregivers elect parent representatives, and staff elect staff representatives.

What are staggered (mid-term) elections?

Some boards opt into the staggered (mid-term) election cycle. This enables a board to have half of its parent representatives elected in a triennial election year and the remainder at a mid-term election. Mid-term elections are held approximately 18 months after triennial elections. 

What are student representative elections?

Boards of state and state-integrated schools with students above Year 9 must hold a student representative election every September. This is for students to elect who will represent them on their school board.  

What are by-elections? 
Between the regular election cycles, by-elections can be held to fill a vacant parent, staff, or student representative position. 

What are electronic school board elections?

Under the Education (Board Elections) Regulations 2022, schools can now run their board elections online.  
Refer to the resources sectionopen_in_new of this website for more information. 

If you have a question or concern about an election process at your school, please email us.

If you’re new to a board, head to our  websiteopen_in_new to find out all the ways we can support you.