🗳️ Citizenship & Participation

Te Kirirarautanga — Being an Active Citizen

🇳🇿 Making a Difference

Being a citizen isn't just about where you live — it's about being an active member of your community and country. In Aotearoa, we have a democratic system where everyone's voice can be heard. But democracy only works when people participate!

Rights & Responsibilities

✅ Your Rights

Vote (at age 18)
Free speech and expression
Fair treatment under the law
Education
Healthcare
Protection from discrimination
Freedom of religion and belief
Privacy

Protected by the NZ Bill of Rights Act 1990

📋 Your Responsibilities

Obey the law
Respect others' rights
Pay taxes (when working)
Serve on a jury if called
Contribute to your community
Vote in elections
Stay informed about issues
Care for the environment

🙋 Ways to Participate

🗳️ Vote

Local & national elections

📣 Speak Up

Share your views respectfully

✍️ Petition

Collect signatures for change

🏃 Volunteer

Help in your community

📝 Submit

Have your say on laws

🤝 Join

Groups working for change

🏛️ How NZ Democracy Works

Key Features

Parliament — makes laws (House of Representatives)
Elections — every 3 years using MMP voting
Te Tiriti o Waitangi — foundation document
Māori seats — dedicated representation
Select committees — public can submit views
Local government — councils for regional issues

👦👧 Young People Can...

Even Before You Can Vote

Join student councils or youth groups
Write letters to MPs
Participate in peaceful protests
Start petitions (collect signatures)
Use social media to raise awareness
Volunteer in your community
Learn about issues and discuss with whānau

Remember: Many social movements have been led by young people!

✏️ Activities

Activity: Community Issue

Identify an issue in your community:

What is the problem?
Who is affected?
Who has the power to change it?
What could you do about it?

An issue I care about:

👩‍🏫 Teacher Notes

Curriculum Links

Social Studies: Participation, decision-making
Te Ao Māori: Community, collective action
Health: Empowerment, advocacy