Decision makers are always keen to hear from voters. They want to hear about the issues they are concerned about.
You can have a powerful influence by raising the issue of alcohol harm with politicians. In a democratic society, there are different ways and at varying levels in which you can have your say in front of them. For example, you can talk to or write to Members of Parliament (MPs), make a submission, develop and distribute a petition, write to Ministers, etc.
Contacting local government councillors and community board members is also important. They can address issues locally as well as advocate to politicians in Parliament. Use this page to find out how to raise your concerns to national and local decision-makers. You can also contact us for further advice.
|
TIP Check out key talking points on the endless possibilities with less alcohol harm. Use the explore section to equip you with the required knowledge on key evidence-based policies to reduce harm. |
Visit decision-makers
Local Members of Parliament
One of the roles of MPs is to represent the views and concerns of New Zealanders in Parliament (where laws are discussed and made). Some MPs may make a stand on an issue. Local MPs are responsible for representing local views or causes of their voting districts (local electorates) within Parliament, and party caucuses, etc. You can either write or talk to them.
|
Key in your residential address to find your electorate. Note that there are two electorates for each address in New Zealand: 1) Māori electorate and 2) General electorate. |
Find the MP who represents your electorate. |
||
|
The NZ Parliament website provides information on contacting your MPs. A contact list can also be found at the bottom of the website. |
TIP Click and check out tips on meeting your local MPs
|
Government Ministers
Because alcohol harm cuts across so many issues (e.g. Health, Justice, Police, ACC, etc), many ministers in Parliament effectively hold the portfolios of alcohol-related issues. Know their names if you want to influence alcohol policy decisions. Here you can find information and contacts of key ministers.
|
|
|
|
|
|
| MINISTER OF FINANCE HON GRANT ROBERTSON | MINISTER OF JUSTICE HON KRIS FAAFOI | MINISTER OF HEALTH HON ANDREW LITTLE | ||
|
|
|
|
|
|
| OTHER MINISTERS | SPOKESPERSON FROM OTHER PARTIES | LOCAL GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS | ||
|
|
|
|||
|
|
Develop a petition
A petition can be an effective way to achieve action, or at least draw attention to the need for action, on a particular issue. If done well it can also demonstrate support for change.
- Check if there is any existing petition for the issue, or others are considering to develop one. You can collaborate with others and build more support for the petition.
- Be clear about who will receive the petition. If you want to generate political momentum, then an MP will be a possible recipient. Choose carefully.
- Ensure the wording is clear, concise and specifies what you want done.
Parliamentary rules for petitions can be found here.
Contact ActionStation if you consider using their NZ-based platform for creating an online petition. It is best to talk to them about your proposed petition.
Other petition websites include the New Zealand Parliament or Change.org.
|
TIP Think strategically about what you are asking for in your petition. Often, policy change begins with small incremental steps. As such, asking for something doable may be more effective than asking for the ultimate. For alcohol pricing policies, a good starting point is to check out the policy recommendations in the Roadmap or the Price Charter. |
Write and present submissions
As part of the democratic process, there is usually an opportunity for the public to provide their input and feedback when the Government is considering a policy issue. Public consultation can be called at different stages in a legislative process. Submissions can also be called for on:
- discussion documents
- draft plans or strategies
- policies (e.g. Local Alcohol Policies, alcohol bylaws)
- Parliamentary Bills (draft legislation)
It is important to have your say on local or national policy and planning processes for alcohol. Keep a lookout for opportunities for your input:
 THE PARLIAMENTARY SELECT COMMITTEE |
GOVERNMENT'S CONSULTATIONS LISTING |
Sign up for campaign updates and submission opportunities
Throughout the Uncap Our Potential campaign, we need your help to get the message across and amplified. Alongside visiting or writing letters to policymakers, participating in public consultations process is also important.
 SIGN UP FOR CAMPAIGN UPDATES |
Prepare a written or oral submission
|
|
|
|