Ask Lee
Unite New Zealand
Process, Not Politicians.
We propose replacing Parliament with a written Constitution establishing a new democratic process. The Constitution does not abolish political parties; it simply does not require them. Government operates through constitutional rules rather than party leadership or policy preferences. This is about process, not personalities. Individuals may stand independently for public office, united by their commitment to the Constitution rather than allegiance to a political party.
New Zealanders separately elect Congress, the legislature, and the President, who leads the executive. Congress writes and passes laws but cannot execute them. The President executes laws passed by Congress but cannot write them. This separation of powers ensures that lawmaking and execution cannot rest in the same hands. The Candidates Board at UniteNZ.org provides a public platform for individuals declaring their intention to stand for these offices, not a party list or an organisation directing their candidacies. Each candidate brings their own convictions, ideas and policy preferences.
For democracy to be effective, it requires a capable and educated constituency, not merely an electorate fooled by fashions, noise and personalities. Every New Zealander is invited to enrol and develop their understanding of the Constitution. Academy graduation and certification are not prerequisites for standing for Congress or President. Unite New Zealand stands by the quality, integrity and educational standards of its Academy curriculum, through which individuals can demonstrate their constitutional understanding. The Academy educates; it does not determine candidacy. We believe in progress, but to progress democratically through our enduring written Constitution of New Zealand.
That our Children may become Parents…
Lee Taituha, BSc, MSc (Hons) · Founder — Unite New Zealand Academy
Leads the executive branch — one of three co-equal branches of government. The President carries out the laws Congress passes and can veto any bill that goes against the will of ‘We the People’. No one branch holds all the power.
Sits in the legislative branch, which makes the laws. Congress, the President and the Courts are three separate branches, and each one can stop the others from overstepping. That separation of powers means no single branch can take control, and government stays answerable to the people. One Congress Member from each of New Zealand's 67 areas — pick your region to see who's standing where you live.
Pick your region and area to see who's standing there, or put your name forward for it.
Haven't signed the pledge to enact the Constitution of New Zealand?
Join Unite NZIf you want to run for President, or for Congress in your district, tell us who you are. This isn't a formal application. It starts the conversation.
The team will be in touch by phone or email to talk it through.
We recommend every candidate becomes a Contributing Partner for $5 a week, then goes on to earn Accredited Partner. It shows the people you're asking to vote for you that you're committed to this work, not just standing for it.
Your email app should have opened with your details ready to send. Attach your photo to that email before sending. If it didn't open, email info@unitenz.org.