Elections in New Zealand
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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
The most recent general election was held in 2020, resulting in a majority government led by the New Zealand Labour Party.
Related Pages[edit | edit source]
- 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[edit | edit source]
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