EOY (Parliamentary democracy)

• What is the main KEY function of Parliament in New Zealand?

  To make new laws, update old laws, and approve tax spending.
• Who represents the Sovereign in New Zealand?

  The Governor-General represents the Sovereign.
• How many members are there in the House of Representatives in New Zealand?

  About 120 members.
• What type of democracy does New Zealand have?

  New Zealand has a representative democracy.
• What is the role of the Government in Parliament?

  The Government is responsible for running the country.
• What does Parliament do to keep the Government accountable?

  Parliament questions the Government's actions and decisions.
• What is the Governor-General's role in the legislative process?

  The Governor-General gives Royal assent to new laws.
• How is the Prime Minister chosen in New Zealand?

  The Prime Minister is appointed by the Governor-General.
• What is the Westminster system?

  It is a system of government modeled on the British Parliament.
• What is a constitutional monarchy?

  A system where a constitution governs the country and the monarch's powers are limited.
• What does the constitution ensure in New Zealand?

  It ensures checks and balances on power and protects rights.
• When did the first Parliament in New Zealand open?

  In 1854.
• What happened to the Upper House in New Zealand in 1951?

  The Upper House was abolished.
• What is the purpose of laws in society?

  Laws are necessary for a fair and safe society.
• How does Parliament represent the people?

  Members of Parliament are elected by the people to represent their views.
• What is the Budget in the context of Parliament?


  The Budget is a detailed plan for how tax money will be spent.
• What colors were used for the debating chambers in New Zealand's Parliament?

  Green for the House of Representatives and red for the Legislative Council.
• What is the significance of the red carpet during the State Opening of Parliament?

  The red carpet leads to the chamber of the Legislative Council where the Sovereign or Governor-General opens Parliament.
• What does the separation of powers ensure in New Zealand?


  It ensures that each branch acts as a check and balance on the power of the others.
• What is the role of the judiciary in relation to Parliament?


  The judiciary is separate and independent from Parliament.
• What are the main functions of Parliament in New Zealand?


  • Passes new laws
  • Represents the people
  • Keeps the Government accountable
  • Approves tax spending
• How does the structure of New Zealand's Parliament reflect the Westminster system?

  • Two parts: Sovereign and House of Representatives
  • Government formed by members of Parliament
  • Opposition consists of non-Government members
  • Majority support needed for Government to function
• What are the historical changes in New Zealand's Parliament?

  • First Parliament opened in 1854
  • Moved to Wellington in 1865
  • Upper House abolished (ended )in 1951
  • Originally had 37 members, now about 120
• What is the significance of the term "Parliament"?


  • Comes from the French word "parler" meaning "to talk"
  • Involves discussion, argument, and debate
  • Aims to create good laws and decisions
• The governor general Roles are

  • Represents the King or Queen and helps with ceremonial duties
  • signing off new roles by giving them royal assent
  • Open parliament at beginning of new term, and then closes when there's about to be an election.
• The Sovereign (King or Queen) and Governor-General can enter the chamber where the carpet is red but are not allowed to enter the House of Representatives when it is sitting.
• A constitution is a set of rules that determines how a country is governed and who exercises power
• The Government is led by the Prime Minister
• The members of Parliament who are not in the Government form the what is called 'Opposition'
• The Prime minister is head of government and makes decisions about how the country is run.
• Citizens help by voting in elections to choose their representatives and give their feedback and opinions on proposed laws.
• What is the primary function of Parliament in New Zealand?


  To make decisions about laws and how taxes should be spent.
• Why is it impractical for all New Zealanders to meet to make decisions?

  Because it would be very difficult, if not impossible.
• What does the term "democracy" mean?

  People rule.
• How often are representatives chosen in New Zealand?

  Every three years.
• What is the role of the Electoral Commission in New Zealand elections?

  To run the election and ensure the rules are followed.
• Who can offer themselves as candidates for election in New Zealand?

  All New Zealand citizens who are enrolled as voters.
• How does belonging to a political party affect a candidate's chances of being elected?

  It greatly increases their chances of being elected.
• How many electorates is New Zealand divided into?

  70 geographical areas. or 70 seats.
• What is the significance of Māori electorates in New Zealand?


  They are represented by Māori MPs.