New Zealand House of Representatives

54th New Zealand Parliament

1860 Parliament

New Zealand MMP voting paper

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BROWNLEE, Gerry - List (cropped)

Opening of 29th NZ Parliament

New Zealand House of Representatives

The New Zealand House of Representatives is a key component of the Parliament of New Zealand, serving as its lower house. It plays a crucial role in the country's legislative process, working alongside the Sovereign of New Zealand (represented by the Governor-General of New Zealand) and, less directly, the New Zealand Legislative Council, the upper house until its abolition in 1951. The House of Representatives is responsible for introducing and debating legislation, scrutinizing government policy and administration, and representing the interests of the public.

Composition

The House of Representatives is composed of Members of Parliament (MPs), who are elected using a Mixed Member Proportional (MMP) voting system. This system, adopted in 1996, combines proportional representation with single-member districts to ensure a more accurate reflection of the national vote in the allocation of seats. The number of seats can vary due to overhang seats, but typically the House consists of 120 MPs. These include members elected from single-member electorates and those elected from party lists.

Elections

Elections for the House of Representatives are held every three years. Under the MMP system, voters have two votes: one for a preferred party and another for an electorate MP. The total number of seats each party wins corresponds to its proportion of the party vote, provided it crosses the electoral threshold (5% of the total party vote or winning at least one electorate seat).

Functions and Powers

The House of Representatives holds significant legislative powers, with the ability to pass laws on a wide range of issues affecting New Zealand. It also has the power to amend or repeal existing laws. Financial legislation, including taxation and government spending, must originate in the House. The House exercises oversight of the executive branch through questions, select committees, and the review of government expenditures.

Procedure

Debates in the House follow a structured procedure, including readings of bills, committee stages, and final readings before a bill is passed to the Governor-General for assent. The House operates under a set of standing orders that govern its proceedings, and its sessions are presided over by the Speaker of the New Zealand House of Representatives, who ensures that debates are conducted fairly and according to the rules.

Committees

The House of Representatives utilizes select committees to consider specific areas of policy, scrutinize government actions, and examine proposed legislation in detail. These committees include members from various parties and play a crucial role in the legislative process, allowing for more in-depth analysis and public input into legislation.

Historical Overview

The New Zealand House of Representatives was established in 1852, following the passage of the New Zealand Constitution Act by the British Parliament. Initially, it was part of a bicameral legislature, but with the abolition of the Legislative Council in 1951, it became a unicameral body. Over the years, the House has evolved, with significant changes including the introduction of the MMP voting system in 1996, which has had a profound impact on New Zealand's political landscape.

Significance

The House of Representatives is central to New Zealand's democracy, providing a forum for public representation, debate, and decision-making on national issues. It reflects the diversity of New Zealand's population and plays a key role in shaping the country's laws and policies.