The Governor-General: What you need to know

<!DOCTYPE html> <html lang="en" class="no-js">  <head> <meta charset="utf-8"> <meta http-equiv="X-UA-Compatible" content="IE=edge,chrome=1"> <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0" /> <title>The Governor-General: What you need to know - New Zealand Parliament </title> <meta name="description" content="On 21 October 2021, Dame Cindy Kiro became the new Governor-General of New Zealand. Find out more about the Governor-General, the history of the position, and the role that they play in New Zealand today." /> <meta property="og:title" content="The Governor-General: What you need to know - New Zealand Parliament" /> <meta property="og:description" content="On 21 October 2021, Dame Cindy Kiro became the new Governor-General of New Zealand. Find out more about the Governor-General, the history of the position, and the role that they play in New Zealand today." /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://www.parliament.nz/en/get-involved/features/the-governor-general-what-you-need-to-know/" /> <meta property="og:type" content="article" /> <meta property="og:image" content="https://www.parliament.nz/media/8608/2021_08_03_00076.jpg?anchor=center&mode=crop&width=1200&height=630&rnd=132791324200000000" /> <link href="https://fonts.googleapis.com/css?family=Open+Sans:400italic,700italic,400,700,300&subset=latin,latin-ext" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css">  <link rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" href="/content/css/style.F1dsGg.css">   <link rel="icon" type="image/x-icon" href="/favicon.ico" /> <link rel="icon" sizes="192x192" href="/apple-touch-icon.png"> <script> (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start': new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0], j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src= '//www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f); })(window, document, 'script', 'dataLayer', 'GTM-NQJ5V9'); </script> <script> var _trackPreloadEvents = []; </script> <script src="/content/scripts/dist/bootstrap.FfAZTA.js"></script> <script>var __uzdbm_1 = "aa4e4d15-67aa-496c-a549-46afa30fecb5";var __uzdbm_2 = "MTM1NjZkZTYtY2Zpai00ZWJmLTgyNjMtOWQ4Mjg4MDc4YmY3JDguMjIyLjIwOC4xNDY=";var __uzdbm_3 = "7f6000fb4cb083-d938-4da4-936a-918008551df017325202485210-798ff1096516c00110";var __uzdbm_4 = "false";var __uzdbm_5 = "uzmx";var __uzdbm_6 = "7f90003ff79374-4d20-4244-a339-c6bd6eca86e71-17325202485210-2da004a8b057688510";var __uzdbm_7 = "www.parliament.nz";</script> <script> (function (w, d, e, u, c, g, a, b) { w["SSJSConnectorObj"] = w["SSJSConnectorObj"] || { ss_cid: c, domain_info: "auto", }; w[g] = function (i, j) { w["SSJSConnectorObj"][i] = j; }; a = d.createElement(e); a.async = true; if ( navigator.userAgent.indexOf('MSIE') !== -1 || navigator.appVersion.indexOf('Trident/') > -1 ) { u = u.replace("/advanced/", "/advanced/ie/"); } a.src = u; b = d.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; b.parentNode.insertBefore(a, b); })( window, document, "script", "https://www.parliament.nz/18f5227b-e27b-445a-a53f-f845fbe69b40/stormcaster.js", "cfil", "ssConf" ); ssConf("c1", "https://www.parliament.nz"); ssConf("c3", "c99a4269-161c-4242-a3f0-28d44fa6ce24"); ssConf("au", "parliament.nz"); ssConf("cu", "validate.perfdrive.com, ssc"); </script></head> <body class="theme--yellow template---GenericDetail"> <nav class="skip-link" aria-label="Skip links navigation"> <a class="skip-link__link theme__bg" href="#main-content">Skip to content</a> </nav> <svg style="position: absolute; width: 0; height: 0;" width="0" height="0" version="1.1" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"> <symbol id="koru" viewBox="0 0 2212 1024"> <path d="M2211.582 872.010c-448.242-19.321-846.249-365.806-998.239-748.357 215.104-7.728 410.888 32.201 546.133 154.566-23.185 64.403-79.859 118.501-171.311 114.636 33.489-72.131-74.707-163.582-149.414-87.587-59.25 59.25 3.864 166.158 155.854 170.023 115.925 3.864 195.784-46.37 265.338-100.468 42.506 32.201 95.316 83.723 112.060 146.838-99.18-51.522-215.104 43.794-153.278 153.278 21.897 38.642 97.892 66.979 146.838 64.403 41.218-1.288 83.723-25.761 106.908-61.826 114.636-238.289-226.697-583.487-577.047-651.753-198.36-36.065-542.269-46.37-726.46 45.082-276.931 148.126-435.361 376.111-559.014 676.226-75.995-96.604-97.892-280.795-59.25-400.584 48.946 10.304 83.723 33.489 100.468 77.283-21.897-12.881-50.234-14.169-64.403 0-92.74 78.571 46.37 185.479 112.060 100.468 73.419-95.316-25.761-218.969-94.028-276.931 14.169-50.234 56.674-72.131 105.62-88.875-28.337 21.897-37.353 32.201-41.218 64.403-18.033 133.957 162.294 133.957 194.496 41.218 29.625-83.723-6.44-158.43-75.995-194.496-285.947-110.772-409.6 249.882-383.839 535.829 11.592 124.941 105.62 342.621 140.397 381.263 516.508 70.843 725.172-276.931 708.428-417.328-6.44-68.267-18.033-170.023-158.43-164.87-109.484 3.864-225.409 167.447-123.653 217.681 56.674 28.337 141.686-23.185 94.028-94.028 65.691 16.745 88.875 136.533 23.185 171.311-70.843-69.555-292.387-59.25-294.964 52.81-1.288 52.81 70.843 90.164 117.213 52.81 25.761-27.049 14.169-68.267-11.592-88.875 56.674-21.897 97.892 23.185 112.060 64.403-50.234 101.756-203.512 123.653-311.708 88.875 126.229-421.192 510.068-656.906 593.791-698.123-15.457 101.756-46.37 284.659-16.745 427.633 38.642 186.767 144.262 332.317 287.235 401.872 151.99 60.538 385.127 2.576 341.333-194.496-41.218-182.903-354.214-105.62-217.681 82.435-79.859 9.016-149.414-43.794-182.903-100.468 95.316-38.642 184.191-197.072 117.213-306.556-59.25-95.316-271.779-45.082-182.903 88.875 39.93 39.93 88.875-2.576 100.468-34.777 37.353 73.419-33.489 123.653-88.875 141.686-83.723-153.278-61.826-342.621-6.44-519.084 47.658 66.979 81.147 144.262 123.653 212.528 124.941 199.648 512.644 620.84 1042.033 650.465v-149.414z"></path> </symbol> </svg> <noscript> <iframe src="//www.googletagmanager.com/ns.html?id=GTM-NQJ5V9" height="0" width="0" style="display: none; visibility: hidden"></iframe> </noscript> <div class="header__wrap"> <div class="header"> <div class="wrapper cf"> <div class="header__primary"> <a href="/en/" class="header__masthead"> <span class="header__title">New Zealand Parliament</span> <span class="header__subtitle" lang="mi">Pāremata Aotearoa</span> </a> <div class="header__mobile-buttons header__mobile-only"> <button id="btn-mobile-search" aria-label="Search" aria-expanded="false" class="header__mobile-button iconf-search js-megamenu-toggle" data-toggle="megamenu-search-mobile" data-toggle-group="top" data-cy="mobilemenuSearch"></button> <button id="btn-mobile-menu" aria-label="Main menu" aria-expanded="false" class="header__mobile-button header__mobile-button--nav js-megamenu-toggle" data-toggle="megamenu-root" data-toggle-group="top" data-cy="mobilemenuBurger"> <b aria-hidden="true"></b> <b aria-hidden="true"></b> <b aria-hidden="true"></b> </button> </div> <div class="float--right"> <div class="float--left header__desktop-only"> <div class="header__language"> <form id="language-switcher" class="header__language"> <fieldset> <legend><span class="header__label">Language</span></legend> <a class="header__language-option" href="#"> <input id="English" class="visuallyhidden" type="radio" name="language" value="English" checked="checked"> <div class="fake-radio"></div> <label id="English-label" for="English">English</label> </a> <a class="header__language-option" href="/mi/site-search/" > <input id="Māori" class="visuallyhidden" type="radio" name="language" value="Māori"> <div class="fake-radio"></div> <label for="Māori">Māori</label> </a> </fieldset> </form> <script> // URL override for cached language switcher var url = window.location.pathname; var inactive_url = "/mi/site-search/"; var inactive_element = document.querySelector("a[href='" + inactive_url + "']"); var alt_url = inactive_url.slice(0, 4) + url.substring(4); inactive_element.setAttribute("href", alt_url); </script> </div> </div> <div id="megamenu-search-desktop" class="header__search"> <div class="header__desktop-only" data-cy="desktopSearchBox"> <span class="header__search-label header__label">Search</span> <div class="header__search-combo input-combo"> <form action="/en/site-search" method="get"><input class="header__search-input input-combo__input" id="term" name="term" type="text" value="" /> <button class="header__search-button input-combo__button input-combo__button--icon iconf-search"><span class="visuallyhidden">Search</span></button> </form> </div> </div> <div id="megamenu-search-mobile" class="header__mobile-only header__search-overlay" data-cy="mobileSearchBox"> <div class="header__search-overlay-layout"> <span class="header__search-label header__label">Search</span> <div class="header__search-combo input-combo"> <form action="/en/site-search" method="get"><input class="header__search-input input-combo__input" id="term" name="term" type="text" value="" /> <button class="header__search-button input-combo__button input-combo__button--icon iconf-search"><span class="visuallyhidden">Search</span></button> </form> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div id="megamenu-root" class="megamenu__mobile-wrapper js-menu"> <div class="header__language-mobile-wrapper"> <div class="header__language"> <form id="language-switcher" class="header__language"> <fieldset> <legend><span class="header__label">Language</span></legend> <a class="header__language-option" href="#"> <input id="English" class="visuallyhidden" type="radio" name="language" value="English" checked="checked"> <div class="fake-radio"></div> <label id="English-label" for="English">English</label> </a> <a class="header__language-option" href="/mi/site-search/" > <input id="Māori" class="visuallyhidden" type="radio" name="language" value="Māori"> <div class="fake-radio"></div> <label for="Māori">Māori</label> </a> </fieldset> </form> <script> // URL override for cached language switcher var url = window.location.pathname; var inactive_url = "/mi/site-search/"; var inactive_element = document.querySelector("a[href='" + inactive_url + "']"); var alt_url = inactive_url.slice(0, 4) + url.substring(4); inactive_element.setAttribute("href", alt_url); </script> </div> </div> <nav aria-label="Main Menu"> <ul class="megamenu" data-cy="megamenu"> <li class="megamenu__item megamenu__item--cyan"> <a class="megamenu__heading" title="Home" href="/en/" data-cy="megamenuHome"> <span class="iconf-home" aria-hidden="true"></span> <span class="hidden--l">Home</span> </a> </li> <li id="menu_1271" class="megamenu__item megamenu__item--cyan template---ParliamentaryBusinessLanding js-megamenu-item"> <a id="toggle_1271" href="/en/pb/" class="megamenu__heading js-megamenu-toggle" data-toggle="menu_1271" data-toggle-group="menu" aria-haspopup="true" aria-expanded="false"> Parliamentary Business <span class="megamenu__heading-icon-desktop iconf-arrow-down"></span> <span class="megamenu__heading-icon-mobile iconf-arrow-down"></span> </a> <div class="megamenu__dropdown"> <div class="wrapper"> <div class="grid"> <div class="grid__item one-whole"> <ul class="megamenu__list"> <li class="megamenu__list-item megamenu__list-item_toplevel"> <a href="/en/pb/" class="megamenu__list-link"> Parliamentary Business <span>home</span> </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/pb/bills-and-laws/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="1369"> Bills and Laws </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/pb/sc/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="1287"> Select committees </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/pb/hansard-debates/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="2505"> Hansard (Debates) </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/pb/daily-progress-in-the-house/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="1667"> Daily progress in the House </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/pb/order-paper-questions/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="1445"> Order Paper & Questions </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/pb/journals-of-the-house/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="3768"> Journals of the House </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/pb/papers-presented/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="2442"> Papers presented </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/pb/petitions/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="3855"> Petitions </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/pb/parliamentary-rules/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="1448"> Parliamentary Rules </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/pb/parliamentary-relations/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="3536"> Inter-Parliamentary Relations </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/pb/library-research-papers/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="23381"> Library Research Papers </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/pb/meetings-of-parliament/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="4346"> Meetings of Parliament </a> </li> </ul> <btn id="toggle_close_1271" role="button" aria-label="Collapse Parliamentary Business" class="megamenu__back js-megamenu-back" data-toggle="menu_1271"><span class="megamenu__back-icon iconf-arrow-up"></span></btn> </div> </div> </div> </div> </li> <li id="menu_1260" class="megamenu__item megamenu__item--blue template---GenericLanding js-megamenu-item"> <a id="toggle_1260" href="/en/mps-and-electorates/" class="megamenu__heading js-megamenu-toggle" data-toggle="menu_1260" data-toggle-group="menu" aria-haspopup="true" aria-expanded="false"> MPs and Electorates <span class="megamenu__heading-icon-desktop iconf-arrow-down"></span> <span class="megamenu__heading-icon-mobile iconf-arrow-down"></span> </a> <div class="megamenu__dropdown"> <div class="wrapper"> <div class="grid"> <div class="megamenu__lede grid__item one-third"> <p>In the 54th New Zealand Parliament there are 6 parliamentary parties represented by 123 MPs. These MPs represent 65 general electorate seats and 7 Māori electorates. The other 51 MPs are selected from the party lists.</p> </div> <div class="grid__item l-two-thirds"> <ul class="megamenu__list"> <li class="megamenu__list-item megamenu__list-item_toplevel"> <a href="/en/mps-and-electorates/" class="megamenu__list-link"> MPs and Electorates <span>home</span> </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/mps-and-electorates/members-of-parliament/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="13825"> Members of Parliament </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/mps-and-electorates/political-parties/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="1957"> Parliamentary parties </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/mps-and-electorates/electorate-profiles/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="59371"> Electorate profiles 2020 </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/get-involved/have-your-say/contact-an-mp/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="3538"> Contact an MP </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/mps-and-electorates/members-financial-interests/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="6729"> Members' financial interests </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/mps-and-electorates/house-seating-plan/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="13827"> House seating plan </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/mps-and-electorates/mps-expenses/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="2473"> MPs' expenses </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/mps-and-electorates/member-eco-lease-disclosures/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="174267"> Member ECO Lease Disclosures </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/mps-and-electorates/pay-and-entitlements/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="4506"> Pay and services </a> </li> </ul> <btn id="toggle_close_1260" role="button" aria-label="Collapse MPs and Electorates" class="megamenu__back js-megamenu-back" data-toggle="menu_1260"><span class="megamenu__back-icon iconf-arrow-up"></span></btn> </div> </div> </div> </div> </li> <li id="menu_1261" class="megamenu__item megamenu__item--yellow template---GenericLanding js-megamenu-item"> <a id="toggle_1261" href="/en/get-involved/" class="megamenu__heading js-megamenu-toggle" data-toggle="menu_1261" data-toggle-group="menu" aria-haspopup="true" aria-expanded="false"> Get Involved <span class="megamenu__heading-icon-desktop iconf-arrow-down"></span> <span class="megamenu__heading-icon-mobile iconf-arrow-down"></span> </a> <div class="megamenu__dropdown"> <div class="wrapper"> <div class="grid"> <div class="megamenu__lede grid__item one-third"> <p><span>Parliament's decisions affect all New Zealanders. Have your say and influence the laws passed by Parliament. You can get involved by voting in elections, contacting an MP, making a submission or petitioning Parliament.</span></p> </div> <div class="grid__item l-two-thirds"> <ul class="megamenu__list"> <li class="megamenu__list-item megamenu__list-item_toplevel"> <a href="/en/get-involved/" class="megamenu__list-link"> Get Involved <span>home</span> </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/get-involved/have-your-say/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="1979"> Have your say </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/pb/sc/make-a-submission/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="4456"> Make a submission </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/get-involved/topics/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="1341"> Topics </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="3286"> Features </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/get-involved/information-for-the-press/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="3126"> Information for the press </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/get-involved/have-your-say/contact-an-mp/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="3538"> Contact an MP </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/get-involved/the-week-in-parliament/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="3148"> This week in Parliament </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/footer/about-us/parliamentary-engagement/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="56747"> Parliamentary Engagement </a> </li> </ul> <btn id="toggle_close_1261" role="button" aria-label="Collapse Get Involved" class="megamenu__back js-megamenu-back" data-toggle="menu_1261"><span class="megamenu__back-icon iconf-arrow-up"></span></btn> </div> </div> </div> </div> </li> <li id="menu_1262" class="megamenu__item megamenu__item--coral template---GenericLanding js-megamenu-item"> <a id="toggle_1262" href="/en/visit-and-learn/" class="megamenu__heading js-megamenu-toggle" data-toggle="menu_1262" data-toggle-group="menu" aria-haspopup="true" aria-expanded="false"> Visit and Learn <span class="megamenu__heading-icon-desktop iconf-arrow-down"></span> <span class="megamenu__heading-icon-mobile iconf-arrow-down"></span> </a> <div class="megamenu__dropdown"> <div class="wrapper"> <div class="grid"> <div class="grid__item l-two-thirds"> <ul class="megamenu__list"> <li class="megamenu__list-item megamenu__list-item_toplevel"> <a href="/en/visit-and-learn/" class="megamenu__list-link"> Visit and Learn <span>home</span> </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/visit-and-learn/visit/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="1290"> Visit </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/visit-and-learn/events-at-parliament/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="181382"> Events at Parliament </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/visit-and-learn/visit/planning-your-visit/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="2837"> Planning your visit </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/visit-and-learn/educators-and-students/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="1288"> Educators and students </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/visit-and-learn/public-servants-and-special-interest-groups/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="15551"> Public servants and special interest groups </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/visit-and-learn/how-parliament-works/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="1291"> How Parliament works </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/visit-and-learn/how-parliament-works/our-system-of-government/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="3539"> Our system of government </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/visit-and-learn/how-parliament-works/office-of-the-speaker/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="1817"> Office of the Speaker </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/visit-and-learn/how-parliament-works/how-laws-are-made/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="3543"> How laws are made </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/visit-and-learn/history-and-buildings/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="3128"> History and buildings </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/visit-and-learn/parliament-in-election-year/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="14775"> Parliament in Election Year </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/visit-and-learn/mps-and-parliaments-1854-onwards/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="25014"> MPs and parliaments, 1854 onwards </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/visit-and-learn/outreach-programme/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="34547"> Outreach Programme </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/visit-and-learn/parliament-webinars/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="59847"> Parliament webinars </a> </li> <li class="megamenu__list-item "> <a href="/en/visit-and-learn/resources-about-new-zealand-parliament/" class="megamenu__list-link" data-menu-id="65607"> Resources about New Zealand Parliament </a> </li> </ul> <btn id="toggle_close_1262" role="button" aria-label="Collapse Visit and Learn" class="megamenu__back js-megamenu-back" data-toggle="menu_1262"><span class="megamenu__back-icon iconf-arrow-up"></span></btn> </div> <div class="grid__item one-third megamenu__promo-wrap "> <div class="megamenu__promo"> <div class="megamenu__contact cf"> <a href="http://maps.google.com/?q=Wellington+Parliament+Pipitea+Wellington+6011" target="_blank" class="figure"> <img src="/content/images/interface/map-nav.png" /> </a> <div class="contact__body"> <h4 class="contact__heading">Parliament Buildings’ street address</h4> <p> <a href="http://maps.google.com/?q=Wellington+Parliament+Pipitea+Wellington+6011" target="_blank">Parliament Buildings<br />Molesworth Street<br />Wellington 6160<br />New Zealand</a> </p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="megamenu__promo"> <a href="/en/visit-and-learn/visit/" class="megamenu__cta cf"> <div class="figure"> <img src="/content/images/placeholder/lazyload/thumbnail.F1dsHA.png" data-original="/media/1778/ph-and-bhive-with-school-helena-photo.jpg?center=0.47949526813880128,0.50210084033613445&mode=crop&width=200&height=150&rnd=133113453740000000" alt="A school group visit New Zealand's Parliament buildings" class="js-lazy-auto " title="A school group visit New Zealand's Parliament buildings DUPLICATE"/> <noscript> <img src="/media/1778/ph-and-bhive-with-school-helena-photo.jpg?center=0.47949526813880128,0.50210084033613445&mode=crop&width=200&height=150&rnd=133113453740000000" alt="A school group visit New Zealand's Parliament buildings" class="" title="A school group visit New Zealand's Parliament buildings DUPLICATE" /> </noscript> </div> <div class="megamenu__cta-body"> For more information about tours and visiting Parliament, click here. </div> </a> </div> <div class="megamenu__promo"> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </li> </ul> </nav> <div class="header-quick-links__mobile-wrapper push-half--top hidden--l"> <a class="header__house-session hidden--l show--xl" href="/en/pb/meetings-of-parliament/" target="_blank"> <div> <div class="house-session__status rel figure"> <img src="/media/9850/img_0084.jpg?anchor=center&mode=crop&width=920&height=518&rnd=133137720610000000" alt="The debating chamber during question time." class="house-session__img" /> </div> <div class="house-session__summary"> <span class="house-session__text">The House next meets on <time class="house-session__date" datetime="2024-12-10">Tuesday, 10 December 2024</time></span> </div> </div> </a> <ul class="header__quick-links"> <li class="quick-links__item"> <a href="/en/calendar" class="quick-links__link quick-links__calendar theme__bg--hover"> <span class="quick-links__icon iconf-calendar" aria-hidden="true"></span> <span class="quick-links__text"> Calendar </span> </a> </li> <li class="quick-links__item"> <a href="https://videos.parliament.nz/" class="quick-links__link quick-links__watch theme__bg--hover"> <span class="quick-links__icon iconf-play" aria-hidden="true"></span> <span class="quick-links__text"> Watch </span> </a> </li> <li class="quick-links__item"> <a href="#audio-notlive-popup" target="_blank" class="quick-links__link quick-links__listen theme__bg--hover js-audio-notlive"> <span class="quick-links__icon iconf-headphones" aria-hidden="true"></span> <span class="quick-links__text"> Listen </span> </a> </li> </ul> <div id="audio-notlive-popup" class="listen-popup mfp-hide"> <h3>Listen</h3> <div class="what"> There is no current live audio feed. </div> </div> </div> <div class="hidden--l"> <ul class="header__mobile-footer-nav cf"> <li class="header__mobile-footer-nav-item"> <a href="/en/footer/about-us/" target="_top" class="header__mobile-footer-nav-link">About Us</a> </li> <li class="header__mobile-footer-nav-item"> <a href="/en/visit-and-learn/how-parliament-works/glossary/" class="header__mobile-footer-nav-link">Glossary</a> </li> <li class="header__mobile-footer-nav-item"> <a href="/en/footer/faq/" target="_top" class="header__mobile-footer-nav-link">FAQ</a> </li> <li class="header__mobile-footer-nav-item"> <a href="https://jobs.parliament.nz/" class="header__mobile-footer-nav-link">Careers</a> </li> <li class="header__mobile-footer-nav-item"> <a href="/en/footer/contact-us/" target="_top" class="header__mobile-footer-nav-link">Contact us</a> </li> <li class="header__mobile-footer-nav-item"> <a href="/en/footer/accessibility/" target="_top" class="header__mobile-footer-nav-link">Accessibility</a> </li> <li class="header__mobile-footer-nav-item"> <a href="/en/footer/copyright/" class="header__mobile-footer-nav-link">Copyright</a> </li> <li class="header__mobile-footer-nav-item"> <a href="/en/footer/privacy/" target="_top" class="header__mobile-footer-nav-link">Privacy</a> </li> <li class="header__mobile-footer-nav-item"> <a href="/en/footer/website-help/" class="header__mobile-footer-nav-link">Website Help</a> </li> <li class="header__mobile-footer-nav-item"> <a href="/en/sitemap/" target="_blank" class="header__mobile-footer-nav-link">Sitemap</a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> <div class="header__secondary cf" data-set="in-session-calendar"> <div class="house-session__wrapper js-appendaround"> <a class="header__house-session hidden--l show--xl" href="/en/pb/meetings-of-parliament/" target="_blank"> <div> <div class="house-session__status rel figure"> <img src="/media/9850/img_0084.jpg?anchor=center&mode=crop&width=920&height=518&rnd=133137720610000000" alt="The debating chamber during question time." class="house-session__img" /> </div> <div class="house-session__summary"> <span class="house-session__text">The House next meets on <time class="house-session__date" datetime="2024-12-10">Tuesday, 10 December 2024</time></span> </div> </div> </a> <ul class="header__quick-links"> <li class="quick-links__item"> <a href="/en/calendar" class="quick-links__link quick-links__calendar theme__bg--hover"> <span class="quick-links__icon iconf-calendar" aria-hidden="true"></span> <span class="quick-links__text"> Calendar </span> </a> </li> <li class="quick-links__item"> <a href="https://videos.parliament.nz/" class="quick-links__link quick-links__watch theme__bg--hover"> <span class="quick-links__icon iconf-play" aria-hidden="true"></span> <span class="quick-links__text"> Watch </span> </a> </li> <li class="quick-links__item"> <a href="#audio-notlive-popup" target="_blank" class="quick-links__link quick-links__listen theme__bg--hover js-audio-notlive"> <span class="quick-links__icon iconf-headphones" aria-hidden="true"></span> <span class="quick-links__text"> Listen </span> </a> </li> </ul> <div id="audio-notlive-popup" class="listen-popup mfp-hide"> <h3>Listen</h3> <div class="what"> There is no current live audio feed. </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="wrapper--desktop education-header"></div> <div id="main-content" class="main-content"> <div class=""> <div class="content gutter-top--loose-desktop gutter-top-mobile gutter-bottom--loose-desktop"> <div class="wrapper wrapper--main cf koru-side-holder"> <div class="main main--two-col" role="main"> <div class="section--border-bottom-desktop"> <h1>The Governor-General: What you need to know</h1> <nav aria-label="Breadcrumb"> <ol class="nav breadcrumb"> <li class="breadcrumb__item"> <a href="/en/" class="breadcrumb__link theme__link" > Home </a> </li> <li class="breadcrumb__item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/" class="breadcrumb__link theme__link" > Get Involved </a> </li> <li class="breadcrumb__item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/" class="breadcrumb__link theme__link" > Features </a> </li> <li class="breadcrumb__item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/the-governor-general-what-you-need-to-know/" class="breadcrumb__link theme__link" aria-current="page"> The Governor-General: What you need to know </a> </li> </ol> </nav> <div class="publish-date"> <div><strong>Originally published:</strong> 20 October 2021</div> </div> <div class="lede"><p>On 21 October 2021, Dame Cindy Kiro became the new Governor-General of New Zealand. Find out more about the Governor-General, the history of the position, and the role that they play in New Zealand today.</p></div> <div class="body-text section--border-bottom-mobile push--top-mobile"> <div class="figure figure--image js-lightbox-single one-whole s-one-half figure--right"> <a href="/media/8615/20211021-20211021-governor-general-swearing-in-7519-675.jpg" class="figure__container js-lightbox-image" target="" data-caption="Dame Cindy Kiro, New Zealand&#x27;s Governor-General, during her swearing-in ceremony" data-source="Phil Smith/VNP"> <img src="/content/images/placeholder/lazyload/original.F1dsGg.png" data-original="/media/8615/20211021-20211021-governor-general-swearing-in-7519-675.FjRGnQ.jpg" alt="Dame Cindy Kiro photographed during her swearing in as Governor-General" class="js-lazy-auto " title="Dame Cindy Kiro Swearing In"/> <noscript> <img src="/media/8615/20211021-20211021-governor-general-swearing-in-7519-675.FjRGnQ.jpg" alt="Dame Cindy Kiro photographed during her swearing in as Governor-General" class="" title="Dame Cindy Kiro Swearing In" /> </noscript> <span class="figure__btn theme__btn"> <span class="figure__btn-icon theme__text-inv iconf-zoom-in2" aria-hidden="true"></span> <span class="visuallyhidden">Enlarge image</span> </span> </a> <p class="figure__figcaption"> Dame Cindy Kiro, New Zealand's Governor-General, during her swearing-in ceremony </p> <p class="figure__figcaption"> Source: Phil Smith/VNP </p> </div> <p><a href="https://www.parliament.nz/en/get-involved/features/the-governor-general-what-you-need-to-know/#A" data-anchor="#A"><strong>Who is the Sovereign?</strong></a></p> <p><a href="https://www.parliament.nz/en/get-involved/features/the-governor-general-what-you-need-to-know/#B" data-anchor="#B"><strong>A changing role</strong></a></p> <p><a href="https://www.parliament.nz/en/get-involved/features/the-governor-general-what-you-need-to-know/#C" data-anchor="#C"><strong>The role of the Governor-General today</strong></a></p> <h3><a id="A"></a>Who is the Sovereign?</h3> <p>New Zealand’s government is <span><a href="https://www.parliament.nz/en/visit-and-learn/how-parliament-works/our-system-of-government/">split into three branches</a></span> – the Legislature, the Executive, and the Judiciary. But, because New Zealand is a constitutional monarchy, the Sovereign (who is also the British monarch) is our head of state.</p> <p>The Sovereign is the source of all executive legal authority in New Zealand, and acts on the advice of the Government in all but the most exceptional circumstances.</p> <p>The Sovereign is represented in New Zealand by the Governor-General.</p> <h3><a id="B"></a>A changing role</h3> <p>The Governor, who represented the British Government, governed New Zealand from 1840. In that year, the Treaty of Waitangi was signed and New Zealand became a British colony.</p> <p>In 1854, New Zealand’s first Parliament opened with New Zealand’s first elected representatives. The formation and control of the government, however, remained with the Governor. The Governor chose the members of the Executive Council (the Government); controlled the Legislative Council, and was accountable to the British Government, rather than the New Zealand Parliament.</p> <p>During the next two years, it was unclear how the Governor should hand over power to meet the growing demands to do so. Until this was clarified, the Governor would not agree to pass power to a Government formed only from members of Parliament. In 1855, permission was finally received from the British Government that the Governor could only choose the government from elected members of Parliament. After fresh elections in 1855, New Zealand’s second Parliament was chosen and from it, in 1856, New Zealand’s first “responsible” government was formed (that is, accountable to the New Zealand Parliament). The Governor, however, still controlled important aspects of New Zealand’s affairs including defence, the military, “Native” (Māori) affairs, international trade, and foreign affairs.</p> <div class="figure figure--image js-lightbox-single one-whole s-one-half figure--center"> <a href="/media/1862/government-house-water-colour.jpg" class="figure__container js-lightbox-image" target="" data-caption="Government House - Water Colour" data-source="George O’Brien, 1871. Alexander Turnbull Library, G674."> <img src="/content/images/placeholder/lazyload/original.F1dsGg.png" data-original="/media/1862/government-house-water-colour.DmxLYg.jpg" alt="Government House." class="js-lazy-auto " title="Government House - Water Colour.jpg"/> <noscript> <img src="/media/1862/government-house-water-colour.DmxLYg.jpg" alt="Government House." class="" title="Government House - Water Colour.jpg" /> </noscript> <span class="figure__btn theme__btn"> <span class="figure__btn-icon theme__text-inv iconf-zoom-in2" aria-hidden="true"></span> <span class="visuallyhidden">Enlarge image</span> </span> </a> <p class="figure__figcaption"> Government House - Water Colour </p> <p class="figure__figcaption"> Source: George O’Brien, 1871. Alexander Turnbull Library, G674. </p> </div> <p>In the early 1860s, the country fell into financial trouble due to the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qEi3iQ_57Bc">New Zealand Wars</a> — and the Governor and Government clashed. As a result, the Government proposed that New Zealand become ‘self-reliant’ — controlling and paying for all its domestic affairs. Britain gradually agreed.</p> <p>The transfer of Māori affairs from the British to the Colonial Government was essentially achieved by 1870. The Royal Instructions of 1892 removed the Governor’s powers to act independently without consulting the Colonial Government.</p> <p>In 1917, the Governor became known as the Governor-General, but still continued to:</p> <ul> <li>be appointed by Britain</li> <li>act as both representative of the British Government as well as the sole official representative of New Zealand views to the British government</li> <li>be the only person to hold the official coding ciphers</li> <li>have sole discretion over what information was passed to the New Zealand government.</li> </ul> <p>After the Second World War New Zealand exercised more control over the appointment of the Governor-General, in the belief that the office should be more representative of New Zealand as a whole. In 1967 Sir Arthur Porritt became the first New Zealand-born Governor-General, and since then a more diverse group of governors-general have been appointed.</p> <p>In 1985 Sir Paul Reeves became the first Māori Governor-General. In 1990 Dame Catherine Tizard became the first woman to be appointed to the office. In 2006 Sir Anand Satyanand became the first Governor-General of Indian and Pacific descent.</p> <h3><a id="C"></a>The role of the Governor-General today</h3> <p>Today, the role of the Governor-General (and the Sovereign when they are here) includes constitutional, ceremonial and community functions.</p> <div class="figure figure--image js-lightbox-single one-whole s-one-half figure--right"> <a href="/media/3075/governor-general-of-new-zealand-dame-patsy-reddy-signing-the-first-royal-assent-at-new-zealand-parliament.jpg" class="figure__container js-lightbox-image" target="" data-caption="One of the Governor-General&#x27;s roles is to give Royal assent to passed bills so that they become law" data-source="Office of the Clerk"> <img src="/content/images/placeholder/lazyload/original.F1dsGg.png" data-original="/media/3075/governor-general-of-new-zealand-dame-patsy-reddy-signing-the-first-royal-assent-at-new-zealand-parliament.DmxMpw.jpg" alt="Dame Patsy Reddy signing the first Royal assent" class="js-lazy-auto " title="Governor-General of New Zealand Dame Patsy Reddy signing the first Royal assent at New Zealand Parliament"/> <noscript> <img src="/media/3075/governor-general-of-new-zealand-dame-patsy-reddy-signing-the-first-royal-assent-at-new-zealand-parliament.DmxMpw.jpg" alt="Dame Patsy Reddy signing the first Royal assent" class="" title="Governor-General of New Zealand Dame Patsy Reddy signing the first Royal assent at New Zealand Parliament" /> </noscript> <span class="figure__btn theme__btn"> <span class="figure__btn-icon theme__text-inv iconf-zoom-in2" aria-hidden="true"></span> <span class="visuallyhidden">Enlarge image</span> </span> </a> <p class="figure__figcaption"> One of the Governor-General's roles is to give Royal assent to passed bills so that they become law </p> <p class="figure__figcaption"> Source: Office of the Clerk </p> </div> <p>Constitutional functions include presiding over the Executive Council, appointing ministers and judges, dissolving Parliament before a General Election, opening the new Parliament after a General Election, and giving Royal assent to bills that have passed their third reading so they become law. When travelling abroad, the Governor-General is seen as a de facto head of state and the representative of New Zealand.</p> <p>Ceremonial functions include hosting state visits and banquets, attending military services, and awarding medals and New Zealand honours.</p> <p>Community roles include being the patron of many charitable, service, sporting, and cultural organisations, hosting events at Government House, speaking to groups throughout New Zealand, and generally providing encouragement to people who are contributing to their communities.</p> <p>The Governor-General is not involved in the day-to-day business of the House of Representatives. In fact, by convention, the Governor-General doesn’t enter the debating chamber, to symbolise the independence of the House of Representatives from the Sovereign.</p> <div class="figure figure--image js-lightbox-single one-whole s-one-half figure--center"> <a href="/media/7246/dissolutioncanceled-4-of-6.jpg" class="figure__container js-lightbox-image" target="" data-caption="By tradition, the Sovereign, or their representative, is only allowed to walk on the red carpet at Parliament House, and not the green." data-source="Office of the Clerk"> <img src="/content/images/placeholder/lazyload/original.F1dsGg.png" data-original="/media/7246/dissolutioncanceled-4-of-6.E_l-xg.jpg" alt="Table and chair for dissolution of Parliament in the Legislative Council Chamber" class="js-lazy-auto " title="Dissolution of Parliament LCC"/> <noscript> <img src="/media/7246/dissolutioncanceled-4-of-6.E_l-xg.jpg" alt="Table and chair for dissolution of Parliament in the Legislative Council Chamber" class="" title="Dissolution of Parliament LCC" /> </noscript> <span class="figure__btn theme__btn"> <span class="figure__btn-icon theme__text-inv iconf-zoom-in2" aria-hidden="true"></span> <span class="visuallyhidden">Enlarge image</span> </span> </a> <p class="figure__figcaption"> By tradition, the Sovereign, or their representative, is only allowed to walk on the red carpet at Parliament House, and not the green. </p> <p class="figure__figcaption"> Source: Office of the Clerk </p> </div> <p><a href="https://ondemand.parliament.nz/spotlight-on-parliament/?itemId=60680"><strong>Watch former Governor-General Dame Patsy Reddy discuss the unique relationship between the Sovereign’s representative and Parliament. </strong></a> </p> <p>The <span><a href="https://dpmc.govt.nz/sites/default/files/2017-06/cabinet-manual-2017.pdf">Cabinet Manual</a></span> lays out the roles of the Sovereign and the Governor-General in detail.</p> </div> <div class="body-text"> <div class="social-share__wrap print-hidden cf"> <h5 class="social-share__title">Share </h5> <ul class="social-share"> <li> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3a%2f%2fwww.parliament.nz%2fen%2fget-involved%2ffeatures%2fthe-governor-general-what-you-need-to-know%2f" class="js-social-popup" target="_blank" title="Share on Facebook"> <span class="social-share__icon iconf-facebook" aria-hidden="true"></span> <span class="visuallyhidden">Share on Facebook</span> </a> </li> <li> <a href="https://twitter.com/share?url=https%3a%2f%2fwww.parliament.nz%2fen%2fget-involved%2ffeatures%2fthe-governor-general-what-you-need-to-know%2f&text=The Governor-General: What you need to know" class="js-social-popup" target="_blank" title="Share on Twitter"> <span class="social-share__icon iconf-twitter" aria-hidden="true"></span> <span class="visuallyhidden">Share on Twitter</span> </a> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3a%2f%2fwww.parliament.nz%2fen%2fget-involved%2ffeatures%2fthe-governor-general-what-you-need-to-know%2f&title=The Governor-General: What you need to know" class="js-social-popup" target="_blank" title="Share on LinkedIn"> <span class="social-share__icon iconf-linkedin" aria-hidden="true"></span> <span class="visuallyhidden">Share on LinkedIn</span> </a> </li> <li> <a href="mailto:?body=The Governor-General: What you need to know%0Ahttps%3a%2f%2fwww.parliament.nz%2fen%2fget-involved%2ffeatures%2fthe-governor-general-what-you-need-to-know%2f" title="Share this via Email"> <span class="social-share__icon iconf-email" aria-hidden="true"></span> <span class="visuallyhidden">Share via Email</span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="sidebar has-koru"> <div class="section-nav pod pod--lb-desktop pod--tb-mobile theme__border"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/" class="section-nav__heading theme__color--hover"> Features </a> <span class="section-nav__heading-mobile"> Also in this section: </span> <ul class="section-nav__list limit js-limit"> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/display-at-parliament-to-mark-queens-birthday-holiday/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Display at Parliament to mark Queen's Birthday holiday </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/display-of-royal-memorabilia/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Display of royal memorabilia </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/dominion-day-centennial/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Dominion Day centennial </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/festival-of-parliament-celebrating-150-years-of-parliament-in-wellington/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Festival of Parliament – celebrating 150 years of Parliament in Wellington </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/first-mondayised-public-holiday-coming-up/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> First ‘Mondayised’ public holiday coming up </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/he-whakaaturanga-pāremata-mō-te-wiki-o-te-reo-māori/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> He whakaaturanga Pāremata mō Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/honouring-cook-islands-soldiers-in-wwi/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Honouring Cook Islands soldiers in WWI </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/hōtere-artworks-in-parliamentary-collection/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Hōtere artworks in Parliamentary Collection </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/how-does-the-house-extend-its-sitting-hours/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> How does the House extend its sitting hours? </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/what-is-a-party-whip-and-what-do-they-do/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> What is a party whip and what do they do? </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/hon-sir-peter-tapsell-knzm-mbe/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Hon Sir Peter Tapsell KNZM, MBE </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/celebrating-25-years-of-new-zealand-parliamentary-rugby/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Celebrating 25 years of New Zealand parliamentary rugby </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/refreshing-the-rules-of-parliament/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Refreshing the rules of Parliament </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/what-happens-to-parliament-with-a-delayed-2020-general-election-date/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> What happens to Parliament with a delayed 2020 general election date? </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/learn-more-about-your-community-with-the-2020-electorate-profiles/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Learn more about your community with the 2020 electorate profiles </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/looking-back-at-delayed-elections-in-new-zealands-history/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Looking back at delayed elections in New Zealand's history </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/30th-anniversary-of-the-nz-bill-of-rights-act/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> 30th anniversary of the NZ Bill of Rights Act </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/what-is-the-end-of-life-choice-act-referendum-about/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> What is the End of Life Choice Act referendum about? </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/business-that-may-be-continued-in-the-53rd-parliament/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Business that may be continued in the 53rd Parliament </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/celebrating-the-centenary-of-the-health-act-1920/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Celebrating the centenary of the Health Act 1920 </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/marking-the-10-year-anniversary-of-the-pike-river-mine-disaster/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Marking the 10-year anniversary of the Pike River Mine disaster </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/print-your-own-debating-chamber-seating-plan/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Print your own Debating Chamber seating plan </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/what-is-a-citizens-initiated-referendum/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> What is a citizens-initiated referendum? </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/refreshing-the-rules-of-parliament-increasing-the-quality-of-debate/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Refreshing the rules of Parliament: Increasing the quality of debate </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/celebrating-dame-whina-cooper-and-the-fight-for-maori-land-rights/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Celebrating Dame Whina Cooper and the fight for Māori land rights </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/house-adjourns-for-2020/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> House adjourns for 2020 </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/keeping-new-zealand-parliament-connected-to-the-global-conversation/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Keeping New Zealand Parliament connected to the global conversation </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/childrensdayactivities/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Children's Day / Te Rā o Ngā Tamariki - Celebrate with Fun Activities for Kids </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/the-christchurch-mosque-attacks-how-parliament-responded/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> The Christchurch mosque attacks: how Parliament responded </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/address-in-reply-presented-following-conclusion-of-debate/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Address in Reply presented following conclusion of debate </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/2021-interns-experience-parliament-first-hand/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> 2021 Interns experience Parliament first hand </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/parliament-is-coming-to-you/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Parliament is coming to YOU! </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/2021-register-of-members-interests-published/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> 2021 Register of members’ interests published </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/rangatahi-use-their-voice-in-the-change-makers-prize/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Rangatahi use their voice in the Change Makers’ Prize </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/ask-mps-your-questions/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Ask MPs your questions! </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/te-papakura-celebrating-aotearoa-s-art-at-parliament/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Te Papakura: celebrating Aotearoa’s art at Parliament </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/use-your-voice-shape-aotearoa-new-zealand-s-future/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Use your voice - shape Aotearoa New Zealand’s future </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/special-debate-on-dawn-raids/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Special Debate on Dawn Raids </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/in-memory-of-sir-michael-cullen-mp-1981-to-2009/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> In memory of Sir Michael Cullen, MP 1981 to 2009 </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/nzsl-video-series-launched-by-nz-parliament-and-deaf-aotearoa/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> NZSL video series launched by NZ Parliament and Deaf Aotearoa </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/education-perfect-te-reo/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Akoranga e ai ki tāu e pai ai: Whātorohia te Pāremata o Aotearoa i runga o Education Perfect/ Learn your way: Explore Pāremata Aotearoa on Education Perfect </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/introducing-rarapa-shining-a-light-on-our-democracy/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Introducing, Rarapa: Shining a light on our democracy </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/mmp-turns-25-looking-back-after-quarter-of-a-century/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> MMP turns 25 — looking back after quarter of a century </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/you-re-invited-watch-the-swearing-in-of-the-new-governor-general/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> You’re invited: Watch the swearing-in of the new Governor-General </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/the-governor-general-what-you-need-to-know/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover is-selected theme__color"> The Governor-General: What you need to know </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/new-governor-general-dame-cindy-kiro-gives-her-first-royal-assent/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> New Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro gives her first Royal assent </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/watch-25-years-of-mmp/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Watch: 25 years of MMP </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/art-to-screen-on-ptv/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Art to screen on PTV </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/the-house-adjourns-for-2021/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> The House Adjourns for 2021 </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/tatyana-kulida-portrait-of-antarctica/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Tatyana Kulida: Portrait of Antarctica </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/the-queen-marks-her-platinum-jubilee/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> The Queen marks her Platinum Jubilee </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/new-zealand-parliament-s-response-to-the-russian-invasion-of-ukraine-відповідь-парламенту-нової-зеландії-на-вторгнення-росії-в-україну/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> New Zealand Parliament’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine / Відповідь Парламенту Нової Зеландії на вторгнення Росії в Україну </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/new-nzsl-video-how-laws-are-made/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> New NZSL Video: How Laws are Made </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/celebrating-commonwealth-day-2022/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Celebrating Commonwealth Day 2022 </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/you-re-invited-diversity-in-parliament-panel-discussion/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> You’re invited: Diversity in Parliament panel discussion </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/have-your-say-independent-person-protocol/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Have Your Say: Independent Person Protocol </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/exit-bruce-when-an-electorate-is-eliminated/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Exit Bruce: When an electorate is eliminated </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/inquiring-young-minds-gear-up-for-youth-parliament-select-committees/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Inquiring young minds gear up for Youth Parliament select committees </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/2022-register-of-members-interests-published/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> 2022 Register of members’ interests published </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/new-nzsl-video-how-elections-work/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> New NZSL Video: How Elections Work </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/interns-get-stuck-into-parliament-life/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Interns get stuck into Parliament life </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/faces-of-humanity-ilan-wittenberg/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Faces of Humanity - Ilan Wittenberg </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/learn-more-about-the-tauranga-by-election/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Learn more about the Tauranga by-election </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/celebrating-queen-elizabeth-iis-platinum-jubilee/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Celebrating Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/celebrate-niue-language-week-faahi-tapu-he-vagahau-niue/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Celebrate Niue Language Week, Faahi Tapu he Vagahau Niue! </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/50-years-of-the-equal-pay-act-1972/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> 50 Years of the Equal Pay Act 1972 </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/preserving-the-beehive/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Preserving the Beehive </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/celebrate-niue-language-week-2024-faahi-tapu-he-vagahau-niue/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Celebrate Niue Language Week 2024, Faahi Tapu he Vagahau Niue </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/the-census-and-parliament/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> The Census and Parliament </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/first-speaker-s-outreach-of-2023-kicks-off-on-the-kapiti-coast-with-a-unique-kind-of-visit/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> First Speaker’s outreach of 2023 kicks off on the Kapiti Coast with a unique kind of visit </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/follow-the-action-on-budget-day-2023/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Revisit the action of Budget Day 2023 </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/parliament-tours-receives-qualmark-gold-sustainable-tourism-business-award/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Parliament tours receives Qualmark Gold - Sustainable Tourism Business Award </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/changes-to-ordinary-sitting-hours/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Changes to ordinary sitting hours </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/international-day-of-parliamentarism-2023/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Parliaments for the Planet: International Day of Parliamentarism 2023 </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/celebrate-kiribati-language-week-2024/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Celebrate Kiribati Language Week 2024 </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/beyond-the-tiles-a-press-gallery-photographic-exhibition/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Beyond the Tiles: A Press Gallery Photographic Exhibition </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/wahine-from-across-the-pacific-come-together-at-parliament-for-a-unique-development-opportunity/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Wahine from across the Pacific come together at Parliament for a unique development opportunity </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/review-of-standing-orders-report-released/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Review of Standing Orders report released </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/celebrate-2024-tongan-language-week/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Celebrate 2024 Tongan language week! </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/celebrate-te-wiki-o-te-reo-māori-2024/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Celebrate Te Wiki o te Reo Māori 2024 </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/new-zealand-s-10th-mmp-general-election/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> New Zealand’s 10th MMP General Election </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/66th-commonwealth-parliamentary-conference-in-accra-ghana/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> 66th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Accra, Ghana </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/147th-ipu-assembly-in-luanda-angola/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> 147th IPU Assembly in Luanda, Angola </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/parliament-framed-fifty-third-shield-arrives-in-speakers-corridor/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Parliament framed: Fifty-third Shield arrives in Speaker's Corridor </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/take-a-walk-through-parliament-s-history-at-parliament-s-latest-art-exhibition-an-illustrated-history/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Take a walk through Parliament’s history at Parliament’s latest art exhibition, An Illustrated History. </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/new-members-ready-for-54th-parliament/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> New members ready for 54th Parliament </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/who-are-the-people-in-parliament/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Who are the people in Parliament? </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/seating-in-the-new-zealand-debating-chamber/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Seating in the New Zealand debating chamber </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/opening-of-the-54th-parliament-in-photos/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Opening of the 54th Parliament: In photos </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/a-look-into-the-business-committee/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> A look into the Business Committee </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/record-number-of-maori-mps-elected-to-new-zealand-parliament/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Record number of Māori MPs elected to New Zealand Parliament </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/get-involved-with-the-54th-parliament/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Get involved with the 54th Parliament </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/sitting-programme-confirmed-for-2024/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Sitting programme confirmed for 2024 </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/maiden-speeches-and-statements-in-new-zealand-s-54th-parliament/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Maiden speeches and statements in New Zealand’s 54th Parliament </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/select-committees-what-you-need-to-know/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Select committees: What you need to know </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/watching-select-committees-in-2024/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Watching select committees in 2024 </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/ppnz-the-book-on-our-parliament/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> PPNZ: The book on our Parliament </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/address-in-reply-presented/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Address in Reply presented </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/new-parliament-tours-paving-the-way-for-visitors-to-explore-history/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> New Parliament tours paving the way for visitors to explore history </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/types-of-bills/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Types of Bills </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/house-adjourned-for-death-of-member/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> House adjourned for death of member </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/parliament-s-fifth-leap-day-sitting/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Parliament’s fifth leap day sitting </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/a-history-of-the-interjection/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> A History of the Interjection </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/a-history-of-women-in-parliament/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> A history of women in Parliament </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/making-sure-new-zealand-laws-are-up-to-date-and-accessible/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Making sure New Zealand laws are up-to-date and accessible </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/a-whole-new-way-to-watch-parliament-video/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> A whole new way to watch Parliament Video </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/second-phase-of-parliaments-tai-a-kiwa-programme-underway/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Second phase of Parliament's Tai a Kiwa programme underway </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/audio-guides-now-available-on-parliament-tours/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Audio Guides now available on Parliament tours </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/visit-parliament-your-way/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Visit Parliament - your way! </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/experience-the-power-of-photographic-storytelling-at-parliaments-newest-exhibition/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Experience the power of photographic storytelling at Parliament's newest exhibition </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/present-a-paper-at-this-years-aspg-conference/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Present a paper at this year's ASPG Conference </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/parliaments-historic-journal-collection-now-bigger-than-ever/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Parliament's historic journal collection now bigger than ever </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/a-history-of-nzsl-and-parliament/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> A History of NZSL and Parliament </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/ukrainian-mps-journey-to-new-zealand-parliament/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Ukrainian MPs journey to New Zealand Parliament </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/2024-register-of-members-interests-published/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> 2024 Register of members’ interests published </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/new-zealand-parliament-celebrates-its-170th-birthday/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> New Zealand Parliament celebrates it's 170th Birthday </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/visiting-parliament-on-budget-day-2024/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Visiting Parliament on Budget Day 2024 </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/introducing-scrutiny-weeks/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Introducing: scrutiny weeks </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/matariki-the-house-and-legislation/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Matariki, the House and legislation </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/celebrate-2024-international-day-of-parliamentarism/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Celebrate 2024 International Day of Parliamentarism </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/latest-art-exhibition-discover-parliaments-hidden-talents/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Latest Art Exhibition: Discover Parliament's Hidden Talents </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/access-content-from-the-49th-54th-parliaments-on-parliament-video/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Access content from the 49th – 54th Parliaments on Parliament Video </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/debate-on-final-report-of-royal-commission-of-inquiry-held/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Debate on final report of Royal Commission of Inquiry held </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/tour-parliament-with-nzsl-interpretation/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Tour Parliament with NZSL interpretation </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/acknowledging-the-passing-of-kingi-tuheitia/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Acknowledging the passing of Kingi Tuheitia </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/introducing-the-new-parliament-wine-range/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Introducing the new Parliament wine range </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/the-objects-representing-the-legacy-of-women-in-parliament/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> The objects representing the legacy of women in Parliament </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/a-new-chapter-for-bellamys-restaurant/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> A new chapter for Bellamys Restaurant </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/it-s-tuvalu-language-week-vaiaso-o-te-gana-tuvalu/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> It’s Tuvalu Language Week, Vaiaso o te Gana Tuvalu! </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/australasian-study-conference-hosted-at-nz-parliament/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Australasian study conference hosted at NZ Parliament </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/learn-about-parliament-from-your-classroom/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Learn about Parliament from your classroom </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/parliament-s-new-buildings-what-s-been-happening-behind-the-hoardings/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Parliament’s new buildings: What’s been happening behind the hoardings? </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/rnzs-the-house-the-submitters-and-you/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> RNZ's The House: The submitters, and you </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/rnzs-the-house-vetting-parliaments-questions/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> RNZ's The House: Vetting Parliament's Questions </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/latest-members-bill-ballot-results/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Latest members' bill ballot results </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/happy-papua-new-guinea-pidgin-language-week/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Happy Papua New Guinea Pidgin Language Week </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/rnzs-the-house-fighting-the-wind-to-fly-the-flag/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> RNZ's The House: Fighting the wind to fly the flag </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/rnzs-the-house-mps-urged-to-think-wider-on-parliament-bill/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> RNZ's The House: MPs urged to think wider on Parliament bill </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/crown-apology-to-survivors-of-abuse-in-care/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Crown apology to survivors of abuse in care </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/where-do-the-ballot-papers-from-the-2023-election-go/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Where do the ballot papers from the 2023 election go? </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/he-kākano-an-exhibition-of-healing-for-survivors-of-abuse-in-care/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> He Kākano - an exhibition of healing for Survivors of Abuse in Care </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/experience-a-high-tea-like-no-other/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> Experience a high tea like no other! </a> </li> <li class="section-nav__list-item"> <a href="/en/get-involved/features/this-week-is-solomon-aelan-pijin-langguis-wik/" class="section-nav__list-link theme__color--hover "> This week is Solomon Aelan Pijin Langguis Wik </a> </li> </ul> <a class="theme__link js-limit-btn js-display" href="#"> View all <span class="limit-icon iconf-arrow-down"></span> </a> </div> <div class="koru-side-wrap"> <svg class="koru-side koru-side--top" aria-hidden="true"><use xlink:href="#koru" /></svg> <svg class="koru-side koru-side--bottom" aria-hidden="true"><use xlink:href="#koru" /></svg> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="footer theme__border"> <div class="footer__wrapper wrapper cf" data-cy="footerLinks"> <ul class="footer__nav nav"> <li class="footer__nav-item"> <a href="/en/footer/about-us/" target="_top" class="footer__nav-link"> About Us </a> </li> <li class="footer__nav-item"> <a href="/en/visit-and-learn/how-parliament-works/glossary/" class="footer__nav-link"> Glossary </a> </li> <li class="footer__nav-item"> <a href="/en/footer/faq/" target="_top" class="footer__nav-link"> FAQ </a> </li> <li class="footer__nav-item"> <a href="https://jobs.parliament.nz/" class="footer__nav-link"> Careers </a> </li> <li class="footer__nav-item"> <a href="/en/footer/contact-us/" target="_top" class="footer__nav-link"> Contact us </a> </li> <li class="footer__nav-item"> <a href="/en/footer/accessibility/" target="_top" class="footer__nav-link"> Accessibility </a> </li> <li class="footer__nav-item"> <a href="/en/footer/copyright/" class="footer__nav-link"> Copyright </a> </li> <li class="footer__nav-item"> <a href="/en/footer/privacy/" target="_top" class="footer__nav-link"> Privacy </a> </li> <li class="footer__nav-item"> <a href="/en/footer/website-help/" class="footer__nav-link"> Website Help </a> </li> <li class="footer__nav-item"> <a href="/en/sitemap/" target="_blank" class="footer__nav-link"> Sitemap </a> </li> </ul> <button style="border: 0; margin-top: -5px;" id="shielded-logo"><img alt="The shielded site" src="https://shielded.co.nz/img/custom-logo.png" height="30" width="30" style="cursor: pointer;"></button> <script src="https://staticcdn.co.nz/embed/embed.js"></script> <script> (function () { window.onload = function(){ var frameName = new ds07o6pcmkorn({ openElementId: "#shielded-logo", modalID: "modal", }); frameName.init(); } })(); </script> <a href="#" title="Back to top" class="footer__top-link js-scroll-top theme__link"> <span class="weight--bold">Back to top</span> <span class="iconf-arrow-up" aria-hidden="true"></span> </a> </div> </div> </div> <script type="text/javascript" src="/content/scripts/dist/main.bc81a4c41a169b49875e.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/content/scripts/dist/app/page/all.247edd44b0e8f0026c64.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/content/scripts/dist/app/page/detail.10568d30332f678dbee2.js"></script> </body> </html>

CINXE.COM

The Governor-General: What you need to know - New Zealand Parliament