There are a number of rules that apply to candidates standing in a parliamentary by-election. These are mainly around election advertisements (including the use of websites and social media), broadcasting, spending limits and donations.
Candidate advertising for the Tauranga by-election could only be broadcast on television and radio between 11 May and 17 June 2022.
Other types of advertising were allowed at any time up until 17 June, but all election advertising must include a promoter statement.
There is a limit to how much a candidate could spend on election advertising published during the regulated period for the by-election. The regulated period for the Tauranga by-election started on 10 May and ended at midnight on 17 June.
The spending limit was $57,200 (including GST) for a candidate’s election advertising expenses published during the regulated period.
Candidate donations, and contributions to donations, of more than $1,500 (including GST) must be reported in the candidate return of expenses and donations after the by-election. Candidates are not allowed to keep donations of more than $50 from an overseas person or anonymous donations of more than $1,500.
More information about the campaign, advertising and donations rules can be found in the Candidate Handbook.