Elections in New Zealand

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Elections in New Zealand

Elections in New Zealand are a fundamental aspect of the country's democracy. New Zealand operates under a parliamentary system of government, and its elections determine the composition of the New Zealand Parliament. The country uses a Mixed-Member Proportional representation (MMP) system, which was adopted in 1996.

Electoral System

The Mixed-Member Proportional representation (MMP) system combines elements of first-past-the-post and proportional representation. Voters have two votes: one for a political party and one for a local candidate. The party vote determines the overall proportion of seats each party receives in the House of Representatives, while the candidate vote determines the local representatives.

Electoral Commission

The Electoral Commission is responsible for administering elections and referendums. It ensures that elections are conducted fairly and transparently, and it also manages the electoral roll.

Types of Elections

New Zealand holds several types of elections:

• General elections: Held every three years to elect members of the House of Representatives.
• Local elections: Held every three years to elect local government officials, including mayors, councillors, and district health board members.
• By-elections: Held to fill vacancies that occur between general elections.
• Referendums: Occasionally held to decide on specific issues.

Voting Eligibility

To vote in New Zealand elections, individuals must be:

• At least 18 years old
• A New Zealand citizen or permanent resident
• Registered on the electoral roll

Historical Context

New Zealand was the first country to grant women's suffrage in 1893. The country has a long history of electoral reform, including the adoption of the MMP system following a referendum in 1993.

Political Parties

New Zealand has a multi-party system. Major political parties include:

• New Zealand Labour Party
• New Zealand National Party
• Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand
• ACT New Zealand
• Māori Party

Recent Elections

The most recent general election was held in 2020, resulting in a majority government led by the New Zealand Labour Party.

Related Pages

• New Zealand Parliament
• Electoral Commission (New Zealand)
• Mixed-Member Proportional representation
• General elections in New Zealand
• Local elections in New Zealand
• Referendums in New Zealand
• New Zealand Labour Party
• New Zealand National Party
• Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand
• ACT New Zealand
• Māori Party

Categories

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