The Representation Commission is proposing changes to half of New Zealand’s electorates, with some of the biggest changes happening in Otago and Southland.

The commission released its report today on the proposed boundaries and names of electorates for the next two general elections. The public will now be able to have their say before the boundaries are finalised in April 2020.

In Otago and Southland, adjustments are needed to the boundaries of the Waitaki, Dunedin North, Dunedin South, Clutha-Southland and Invercargill electorates. 

Under the proposed changes, Winton and the Catlins would be added to Invercargill from Clutha-Southland.

Clutha-Southland would gain the Alexandra and Clyde area from Waitaki. The Otago Peninsula would move from Dunedin South to Dunedin North, and South Otago is added to Dunedin South from Clutha-Southland.

A map indicating the proposed changes to the Invercargill electorate. MAP: New Zealand Electoral Commission online

Other big areas of change are in the Auckland region and Christchurch.

Representation Commission chairman Judge Craig Thompson said that, where possible, the current boundaries had been retained to minimise the number of people affected by electorate boundary and name changes.

Of the 71 existing electorates, 36 are unchanged. 

"The adjustments in other electorates reflect changes in population since 2014 when the boundaries were last reviewed,” she said. 

To view more detail on all the proposed changes is available online CLICK HERE and in the Proposed Electorates 2019 report available at libraries, council offices, Electoral Commission offices and Te Puni Kōkiri regional offices.

“We encourage people to have a closer look at the changes and what it means for them. The public can make objections on the proposed boundaries and names until 20 December,” Judge Thompson said.

There will be a counter-objections period from 10 to 24 January, and public hearings will be held in February.