Democracy in New Zealand

Description

New Zealand is one of the world’s oldest democracies for men and women, Mâori and Pâkehâ, with one of the highest political participation rates. But – from Mixed-member proportional representation (MMP) to leadership primaries, spin doctors to ‘dirty politics’ – the country’s political system is undergoing rapid change. Democracy in New Zealand provides an up-to-date and concise introduction to New Zealand politics and how it works. Examining the constitution and the political system, cabinet and parliament, political parties, leadership and elections, Professor Raymond Miller of the University of Auckland draws on data and analysis (including from the 2014 election) to tackle critical questions: Who runs New Zealand? Does political apathy threaten democracy? Will new parties have an ongoing impact? Do we now have a presidential democracy? Raymond Miller is Professor of Politics and International Relations at the University of Auckland. Lists of Figures and Tables vi Preface ix 1. Democratic Society 1 2. Political System 26 3. Constitution 45 4. Parliament 61 5. Electoral System 85 6. Cabinet Government 106 7. Leaders and Leadership 129 8. Political Parties 157 9. Māori Electoral Politics 184 10. Elections and Voters 204 11. Future of Democracy 230 Appendix 250 Bibliography 252 Index 263