A Guide to Contacting Your MPs
Elected representatives work for the public. One of the most effective ways to influence decision-makers is to contact them directly.
Whether you want to raise concerns about child poverty, support a policy proposal, or share your lived experience, your voice matters.
Who should I contact?
You can contact:
Your local electorate MP
This MP represents the area where you live and is responsible for advocating on behalf of local constituents.
Party spokespersons
Many parties have spokespersons responsible for areas such as children or child poverty reduction, social development, housing, finance, education, or other relevant portfolios.
Ministers
Government ministers have responsibility for particular policy areas and can influence government decisions.
List MPs
List MPs represent all New Zealanders and can be contacted regardless of where you live.
What should I say?
Keep your message:
Respectful
Concise
Personal
Specific
Explain:
Who you are.
Why the issue matters to you.
What change you want to see.
What action you are asking the MP to take.
A Simple Email Template
Subject: Action needed to reduce child poverty
Kia ora [MP name],
I am writing as a constituent and supporter of efforts to reduce child poverty in Aotearoa.
Too many children continue to experience hardship despite living in a wealthy country. I believe government action is needed to ensure all children have access to adequate incomes, affordable housing, and essential services.
I am asking you to support policies that meaningfully reduce child poverty and improve outcomes for children and families.
I would appreciate hearing your views on this issue.
Ngā mihi,
[Your name]
Share your story
Personal experiences can be highly influential.
If you feel comfortable doing so, explain:
How rising costs affect your household
Challenges accessing housing or support
The impact of poverty on children in your community
Real-life examples help MPs understand the consequences of policy decisions.
Request a Meeting
You can ask to meet with your MP in person or online.
A short meeting can be an opportunity to:
Discuss an issue in more detail
Present evidence or lived experience
Build an ongoing relationship
Remember that MPs meet with constituents regularly. It is a normal part of their role.
Follow Up
If you do not receive a response within a reasonable timeframe:
Send a polite follow-up email.
Call the electorate office.
Contact another relevant MP.
Persistence matters.
Why Contacting MPs Works
MPs pay attention when they hear consistently from members of the public. Individual messages may seem small, but together they help shape political priorities.
Reducing child poverty requires public support, political leadership, and sustained advocacy. Contacting your MPs is one practical way to help create change for children in Aotearoa.
