New Zealand Parliament facts for kids

The New Zealand Parliament is the main law-making group for New Zealand. Think of it as the country's big decision-making team. Right now, it has just one main part, called the House of Representatives. This group has 120 members who are chosen by the people of New Zealand.

Parliament House is where the House of Representatives meets.

The idea for New Zealand's Parliament came from the British Parliament. It was officially started by the New Zealand Constitution Act 1852. For a long time, it had two parts: the House of Representatives and another group called the New Zealand Legislative Council. But the Legislative Council was removed in 1962. Since then, New Zealand's Parliament has worked with only one main group of lawmakers.

What Parliament Does

The New Zealand Parliament has a very important job. Its main role is to make new laws and change old ones. These laws affect everyone living in New Zealand. For example, Parliament decides rules about schools, healthcare, and how much tax people pay.

How Laws Are Made

Making a law is a careful process. First, an idea for a new law, called a "bill," is introduced. This bill is usually suggested by a Member of Parliament (MP) or the government. The MPs then discuss the bill in detail. They might suggest changes or improvements.

After discussions, the MPs vote on the bill. If most MPs agree, the bill passes through the House of Representatives. The final step is for the Governor-General to approve the bill. Once approved, it becomes an official law for New Zealand.

Who Are the Members of Parliament?

The 120 members of the House of Representatives are called Members of Parliament, or MPs. They are chosen by New Zealanders in elections. Each MP represents a part of the country or is chosen from a party list. Their job is to speak for the people who elected them. They bring up important issues and help make decisions for the whole country.

Parliament Buildings

The New Zealand Parliament meets in special buildings in Wellington, the capital city. The main building is called Parliament House. It's a famous landmark in Wellington. Inside, there are rooms where MPs meet to discuss laws and vote. There's also the distinctive Beehive building next door, which holds government offices.

History of Parliament

New Zealand's Parliament started in 1854. In the early days, it met in Auckland. Later, in 1865, the capital moved to Wellington. This meant Parliament also moved to Wellington, where it has been ever since. Over the years, Parliament has changed to better suit the needs of New Zealand. Removing the Legislative Council in 1962 was a big change. It made the law-making process simpler.

Images for kids

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  The General Assembly House in Auckland, 1861, where Parliament first met.

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  Inside the House of Representatives, around 1900–1902.

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  Queen Elizabeth II at the Opening of Parliament in 1963.

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  The crest of the House of Representatives, with a crown on top.

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  Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip at the Opening of Parliament in 1986.

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  Governor-General Dame Patsy Reddy giving Royal Assent to a bill. This makes it a law.

See also

In Spanish: Parlamento de Nueva Zelanda para niños