Who leads the New Zealand Government on a day-to-day basis?

The Prime Minister. The Prime Minister is the head of government and leads the Cabinet. The King is head of state, represented in New Zealand by the Governor-General.

Where does New Zealand's Parliament meet?

Wellington. Parliament meets in the Beehive and Parliament Buildings in Wellington, the capital city.

What is the name of the building where New Zealand's Cabinet works?

The Beehive. The Beehive is the executive wing of Parliament Buildings in Wellington. It is where the Prime Minister and Cabinet have their offices.

Who represents the King in New Zealand?

The Governor-General. The Governor-General represents the King in New Zealand and carries out most of the monarch's constitutional duties.

How many houses (chambers) does New Zealand's Parliament have?

One. New Zealand has a unicameral Parliament. There is only one chamber, the House of Representatives. The upper house (the Legislative Council) was abolished in 1950.

What is the name of New Zealand's Parliament chamber?

The House of Representatives. New Zealand's single chamber of Parliament is called the House of Representatives. Its members are known as Members of Parliament (MPs).

A person elected to Parliament is called a what?

Member of Parliament (MP). Elected members of New Zealand's Parliament are called Members of Parliament, or MPs.

Which body in New Zealand makes new laws (statutes)?

Parliament (the House of Representatives). Parliament makes statute law. The Cabinet proposes most bills, but only Parliament can pass them, and the Governor-General gives Royal Assent.

New Zealand's highest court (the final court of appeal for New Zealand cases) is:

The Supreme Court of New Zealand, set up by the Supreme Court Act 2003. The Supreme Court of New Zealand was set up by the Supreme Court Act 2003 (now in the Senior Courts Act 2016). It replaced the Privy Council in London as the final court of appeal for New Zealand cases.

Who is New Zealand's head of state?

The British monarch. New Zealand's head of state is the British monarch. The Governor-General represents the monarch in New Zealand. The Prime Minister is the head of government, not head of state.

What are the three branches of New Zealand's government?

Executive, Legislature, Judiciary. The three branches are the Executive (Cabinet and Ministers), the Legislature (Parliament), and the Judiciary (the courts and judges). They work as checks on each other.

What is the role of Cabinet in New Zealand?

To decide government policy and run government departments. Cabinet is the main decision-making body of the executive. It is made up of senior Ministers and decides government policy. Parliament still has to pass any new laws.

Who chairs meetings of the New Zealand House of Representatives?

The Speaker. The Speaker chairs debates in the House and keeps order. The Speaker is an MP elected by the other MPs.

What is a "bill" in Parliament?

A proposed new law that is being considered. A bill is a proposed law. After Parliament debates and passes it and the Governor-General gives Royal Assent, it becomes an Act of Parliament.

What happens before a bill becomes law in New Zealand?

It must pass several stages in Parliament and receive Royal Assent. A bill goes through several readings and a select committee in Parliament. After it passes the third reading, the Governor-General gives Royal Assent and it becomes law.

Who appoints the Governor-General of New Zealand?

The King, on the advice of the New Zealand Prime Minister. The King appoints the Governor-General on the advice of the New Zealand Prime Minister, usually for a term of about 5 years.

How long is a Governor-General's term in New Zealand?

About 5 years. A Governor-General is normally appointed for about 5 years. The term can be extended by a short period if needed.

Which of these is a key job of the Governor-General?

To give Royal Assent so bills become law. The Governor-General gives Royal Assent to bills passed by Parliament. They also swear in Ministers and represent New Zealand on ceremonial occasions.

Which level of government in New Zealand looks after roads, rubbish collection, and parks in your area?

Local councils. Local councils (city, district, and regional councils) handle most local services such as rubbish, water, parks, and local roads.

What is the "Cabinet" in New Zealand?

The senior Ministers led by the Prime Minister. Cabinet is made up of the Prime Minister and senior Ministers. It is the main decision-making group of the government.

The executive wing of Parliament Buildings, where the Cabinet works. The Beehive is the round building next to Parliament. It holds the Prime Minister's and Cabinet's offices.

Which of these decisions is made by central (national) government, not local councils?

National defence and foreign affairs. Central government handles national matters like defence, foreign affairs, taxes, and national laws. Local councils handle things like rubbish, water, and local roads.

Where is the official residence of the Governor-General?

Government House in Wellington. The Governor-General lives at Government House in Wellington. There is also a smaller Government House in Auckland.

In New Zealand, "confidence and supply" refers to:

Parliament's support for the government to stay in office and pass its budget. A government must hold the confidence of the House and be able to pass supply (the budget). If it loses either, it usually has to resign or call an election.

What is a "coalition government" in New Zealand?

A government made up of two or more parties working together. Under MMP, no single party usually wins enough seats to govern alone. Two or more parties often form a coalition or a confidence-and-supply agreement to make a majority.

A bill's "first reading" in Parliament is:

The first time a bill is debated and voted on in principle, before going to a select committee. After a bill is introduced, the House holds a first reading debate and vote. If the bill passes, it is usually sent to a select committee for detailed study and public submissions.

After a bill's first reading, it is usually sent to:

A select committee, which examines the bill in detail and hears public submissions. After the first reading, most bills are referred to a select committee. The committee studies the bill, hears public submissions, and reports back to the House.

How many readings does a bill normally have in the New Zealand House of Representatives?

Three readings, with a committee stage in between the second and third readings. A bill normally has three readings, with a select committee stage after the first reading and a committee of the whole House stage after the second reading.

A "government bill" in New Zealand is most commonly:

A bill drafted by Cabinet and introduced into the House by a Minister. Most bills are government bills. They are drafted on behalf of the government and introduced by a Minister. Members' bills are introduced by non-Minister MPs.

In Parliament, a "supply" debate or vote is about:

Authorising the government to spend public money in line with the budget. "Supply" means Parliament authorising the government to spend public money. A government must hold the confidence of the House and be able to pass supply to stay in office.

A "confidence and supply" agreement between parties means one party agrees to:

Support the larger party on votes of confidence and on the budget. A confidence and supply agreement is when a smaller party agrees to support the larger party on confidence votes and the budget, without joining the government as a full coalition partner.

The "Cabinet Manual" in New Zealand is best described as:

The main guide to executive decision-making and conventions, kept by the Cabinet Office. The Cabinet Manual is the main guide to executive decision-making in New Zealand. It sets out conventions and rules around Cabinet, the Prime Minister, and the Governor-General.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives is:

An MP elected by the other MPs to chair the House and keep order during debate. The Speaker is an MP elected by other MPs at the start of each Parliament. The Speaker chairs sittings, applies the standing orders, and represents the House.

The role of the Auditor-General in New Zealand is to:

Audit the spending of public money by central and local government bodies. The Controller and Auditor-General audits public spending by central and local government and reports to Parliament. The role is set out in the Public Audit Act 2001.

The role of the Ombudsman in New Zealand is to:

Investigate complaints about decisions and conduct of public sector bodies. The Ombudsman investigates complaints about decisions, recommendations, and conduct of central government, Crown entities, and local authorities. The role was set up by the Ombudsmen Act 1975.

In New Zealand, "regional councils" are mainly responsible for:

Environmental management, including water, air quality, and pest control. Regional councils handle environmental management, public transport, flood control, and biosecurity. There are 11 regional councils across New Zealand.

In New Zealand, "territorial authorities" (city and district councils) mainly handle:

Local services such as water, sewage, roads, parks, and libraries. City and district councils provide most local services, including roading, water, rubbish, parks, libraries, building consents, and bylaws. There are 67 territorial authorities.

Before 2004, the final court of appeal for New Zealand cases was:

The Privy Council (Judicial Committee of the Privy Council in London). Before the Supreme Court of New Zealand began work in 2004, final appeals went to the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council in London. New Zealand cases no longer go to the Privy Council.

In New Zealand, "Royal Assent" is given by:

The Governor-General, who signs a bill so that it becomes an Act of Parliament. Royal Assent is the final step. The Governor-General signs the bill on behalf of the King after Parliament has passed it, and it then becomes an Act of Parliament.

In New Zealand, the executive branch of government is made up of:

The Sovereign (represented by the Governor-General), Cabinet, and Ministers. The executive branch carries out the law. In New Zealand it includes the Sovereign (represented by the Governor-General), the Prime Minister, Cabinet, and Ministers supported by the public service.

In New Zealand's constitutional arrangement, the judiciary is:

An independent branch of government that interprets and applies the law. The judiciary is independent of the executive and Parliament. Judges interpret and apply the law. Judicial independence is a key constitutional principle in NZ.

What is "Royal Assent" in New Zealand law-making?

The final step where the Governor-General signs a bill so it becomes an Act. Royal Assent is the final step in making a law. The Governor-General signs the bill on behalf of the King, and it then becomes an Act of Parliament.

What is a "select committee" in New Zealand's Parliament?

A small group of MPs that examines bills and hears public submissions. A select committee is a small group of MPs that studies a bill in detail and hears submissions from the public before reporting back to the House.

Which Act mainly sets out the role of the Governor-General and the structure of New Zealand's government?

The Constitution Act 1986. The Constitution Act 1986 sets out the basic rules about the Sovereign, the Governor-General, the executive, Parliament, and the judiciary in New Zealand.

The "caretaker convention" in New Zealand applies:

When a government has lost the confidence of the House or after an election before a new government takes office. Under the caretaker convention, a government in caretaker mode tries not to make major new policy decisions. It applies after an election until a new government is formed, or if the government loses confidence.

Who is the "Leader of the Opposition" in New Zealand?

The leader of the largest party not in government. The Leader of the Opposition is the leader of the largest party in Parliament that is not part of the government. The role is recognised by law and gets extra resources.

In New Zealand, the convention that the Governor-General acts on the advice of Ministers means they:

Almost always follow the advice of the responsible Minister or the Prime Minister. By long-standing constitutional convention, the Governor-General acts on the advice of elected Ministers. They have rare reserve powers but use them only in unusual cases.

In Parliament, the "committee of the whole House" stage of a bill involves:

All MPs going through the bill clause by clause and proposing amendments. The committee of the whole House is a stage where all MPs sit as a committee and go through the bill in detail, considering and voting on amendments.

A "members' bill" in New Zealand is:

A bill introduced by an MP who is not a Minister, often selected by ballot. Members' bills are introduced by MPs who are not Ministers. Slots on the order paper are usually drawn at random from a ballot of bills.

The "caretaker convention" in New Zealand applies after an election until:

A new government has been formed and the Prime Minister has been sworn in. Under the caretaker convention, the existing government keeps running things but avoids major new policy decisions until a new government is formed.

In New Zealand, the three "Officers of Parliament" are:

The Auditor-General, the Ombudsman, and the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment. The three Officers of Parliament are the Controller and Auditor-General, the Ombudsman, and the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment. They report to Parliament rather than to the government.

Topic · 56 practice questions

System of government

Last updated 12 May 2026

New Zealand’s system of government is one of the six topic areas govt.nz lists for the citizenship test. It covers Parliament and how laws are made, the role of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, the Governor-General as the King’s representative, the courts, and the Treaty of Waitangi as a founding document. The practice questions below are written from publicly available material and are not the real test.

Take the practice quiz

Free · 20 random questions · no signup

What this topic covers

The three branches: Parliament, the Executive, and the Judiciary
How a bill becomes a law
The Prime Minister, Cabinet, and the role of ministers
The Governor-General and the constitutional monarchy
The Treaty of Waitangi and its place in New Zealand’s constitutional arrangements

Note: These are unofficial practice questions. The Department of Internal Affairs will release official study materials before the test starts in late 2027.

Practice questions (56)

Question 1

Who leads the New Zealand Government on a day-to-day basis?
- A The King
- B The Governor-General
- C The Prime Minister Correct
- D The Chief Justice
Why

The Prime Minister is the head of government and leads the Cabinet. The King is head of state, represented in New Zealand by the Governor-General.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 2

Where does New Zealand's Parliament meet?
- A Auckland
- B Christchurch
- C Wellington Correct
- D Dunedin
Why

Parliament meets in the Beehive and Parliament Buildings in Wellington, the capital city.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 3

What is the name of the building where New Zealand's Cabinet works?
- A The Beehive Correct
- B The Lodge
- C Government House
- D The Hive
Why

The Beehive is the executive wing of Parliament Buildings in Wellington. It is where the Prime Minister and Cabinet have their offices.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 4

Who represents the King in New Zealand?
- A The Prime Minister
- B The Speaker
- C The Governor-General Correct
- D The Chief Justice
Why

The Governor-General represents the King in New Zealand and carries out most of the monarch's constitutional duties.

Source: gg.govt.nz
Question 5

How many houses (chambers) does New Zealand's Parliament have?
- A One Correct
- B Two
- C Three
- D Four
Why

New Zealand has a unicameral Parliament. There is only one chamber, the House of Representatives. The upper house (the Legislative Council) was abolished in 1950.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 6

What is the name of New Zealand's Parliament chamber?
- A The Senate of New Zealand
- B The Legislative Council
- C The House of Representatives Correct
- D The Federal Assembly
Why

New Zealand's single chamber of Parliament is called the House of Representatives. Its members are known as Members of Parliament (MPs).

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 7

A person elected to Parliament is called a what?
- A Senator of the House
- B Member of Parliament (MP) Correct
- C Councillor for the Crown
- D Minister of the Realm
Why

Elected members of New Zealand's Parliament are called Members of Parliament, or MPs.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 8

Which body in New Zealand makes new laws (statutes)?
- A The Cabinet, advised by senior public service officials
- B Parliament (the House of Representatives) Correct
- C The Supreme Court, through binding judicial decisions
- D The Reserve Bank, on financial and monetary matters
Why

Parliament makes statute law. The Cabinet proposes most bills, but only Parliament can pass them, and the Governor-General gives Royal Assent.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 9

New Zealand's highest court (the final court of appeal for New Zealand cases) is:
- A The Privy Council in London, which still hears most New Zealand cases on appeal
- B The Supreme Court of New Zealand, set up by the Supreme Court Act 2003 Correct
- C The Court of Appeal, which hears all appeals in civil and criminal cases in NZ
- D The High Court, sitting as a panel of three judges in the four main centres
Why

The Supreme Court of New Zealand was set up by the Supreme Court Act 2003 (now in the Senior Courts Act 2016). It replaced the Privy Council in London as the final court of appeal for New Zealand cases.

Source: www.courtsofnz.govt.nz
Question 10 · medium

Who is New Zealand's head of state?
- A The Prime Minister
- B The Governor-General
- C The British monarch Correct
- D The Speaker of the House
Why

New Zealand's head of state is the British monarch. The Governor-General represents the monarch in New Zealand. The Prime Minister is the head of government, not head of state.

Source: gg.govt.nz
Question 11 · medium

What are the three branches of New Zealand's government?
- A Executive, Legislature, Judiciary Correct
- B Police, Army, Navy
- C Cabinet, Senate, Courts
- D Federal, State, Local
Why

The three branches are the Executive (Cabinet and Ministers), the Legislature (Parliament), and the Judiciary (the courts and judges). They work as checks on each other.

Source: www.justice.govt.nz
Question 12 · medium

What is the role of Cabinet in New Zealand?
- A To pass new laws as the final step before assent
- B To decide government policy and run government departments Correct
- C To choose the next Governor-General to be appointed
- D To run elections and oversee the electoral roll
Why

Cabinet is the main decision-making body of the executive. It is made up of senior Ministers and decides government policy. Parliament still has to pass any new laws.

Source: www.dpmc.govt.nz
Question 13 · medium

Who chairs meetings of the New Zealand House of Representatives?
- A The Prime Minister
- B The Speaker Correct
- C The Governor-General
- D The Chief Justice
Why

The Speaker chairs debates in the House and keeps order. The Speaker is an MP elected by the other MPs.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 14 · medium

What is a "bill" in Parliament?
- A A receipt for government spending
- B A proposed new law that is being considered Correct
- C A list of MPs in each party
- D A request for funding
Why

A bill is a proposed law. After Parliament debates and passes it and the Governor-General gives Royal Assent, it becomes an Act of Parliament.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 15 · medium

What happens before a bill becomes law in New Zealand?
- A The Prime Minister signs the bill into law on their own once Cabinet has approved
- B The public must approve it in a binding national referendum before it can take effect
- C It must pass several stages in Parliament and receive Royal Assent Correct
- D The British Parliament in London must consent to it before it can become law in NZ
Why

A bill goes through several readings and a select committee in Parliament. After it passes the third reading, the Governor-General gives Royal Assent and it becomes law.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 16 · medium

Who appoints the Governor-General of New Zealand?
- A The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom on Cabinet advice
- B The King, on the advice of the New Zealand Prime Minister Correct
- C The New Zealand Parliament by direct majority vote
- D The Chief Justice on the recommendation of Cabinet
Why

The King appoints the Governor-General on the advice of the New Zealand Prime Minister, usually for a term of about 5 years.

Source: gg.govt.nz
Question 17 · medium

How long is a Governor-General's term in New Zealand?
- A Two years, with possible extension by the King
- B Three years, matching the parliamentary term
- C About 5 years Correct
- D About 10 years, similar to a senior judicial post
Why

A Governor-General is normally appointed for about 5 years. The term can be extended by a short period if needed.

Source: gg.govt.nz
Question 18 · medium

Which of these is a key job of the Governor-General?
- A To run government departments and direct policy
- B To give Royal Assent so bills become law Correct
- C To collect taxes and customs duties from importers
- D To act as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court
Why

The Governor-General gives Royal Assent to bills passed by Parliament. They also swear in Ministers and represent New Zealand on ceremonial occasions.

Source: gg.govt.nz
Question 19 · medium

Which level of government in New Zealand looks after roads, rubbish collection, and parks in your area?
- A Central government
- B Local councils Correct
- C Parliament
- D The courts
Why

Local councils (city, district, and regional councils) handle most local services such as rubbish, water, parks, and local roads.

Source: www.govt.nz
Question 20 · medium

What is the "Cabinet" in New Zealand?
- A All 120 MPs sitting in Parliament together
- B The senior Ministers led by the Prime Minister Correct
- C The judges of the Supreme Court of New Zealand
- D The chief executives of all public service agencies
Why

Cabinet is made up of the Prime Minister and senior Ministers. It is the main decision-making group of the government.

Source: www.dpmc.govt.nz
Question 21 · medium

What is the Beehive?
- A A famous restaurant on the Wellington waterfront popular with MPs and Cabinet Ministers
- B The executive wing of Parliament Buildings, where the Cabinet works Correct
- C The official residence of the Governor-General of New Zealand, in Wellington's suburbs
- D The headquarters of the Supreme Court of New Zealand, near Parliament in Wellington
Why

The Beehive is the round building next to Parliament. It holds the Prime Minister's and Cabinet's offices.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 22 · medium

Which of these decisions is made by central (national) government, not local councils?
- A Local rubbish collection and recycling services
- B National defence and foreign affairs Correct
- C Local park bylaws and reserve management
- D Parking restrictions on suburban streets
Why

Central government handles national matters like defence, foreign affairs, taxes, and national laws. Local councils handle things like rubbish, water, and local roads.

Source: www.govt.nz
Question 23 · medium

Where is the official residence of the Governor-General?
- A The Beehive in Wellington
- B Government House in Wellington Correct
- C Premier House in Auckland
- D Buckingham Palace
Why

The Governor-General lives at Government House in Wellington. There is also a smaller Government House in Auckland.

Source: gg.govt.nz
Question 24 · medium

In New Zealand, "confidence and supply" refers to:
- A The supply of official cars and drivers to Cabinet Ministers and senior public servants
- B Parliament's support for the government to stay in office and pass its budget Correct
- C Public confidence in the New Zealand Police service and its handling of complaints
- D Reserve Bank rules about confidence levels in registered banks and other deposit takers
Why

A government must hold the confidence of the House and be able to pass supply (the budget). If it loses either, it usually has to resign or call an election.

Source: www.dpmc.govt.nz
Question 25 · medium

What is a "coalition government" in New Zealand?
- A A government made up of two or more parties working together Correct
- B A government formed without a Prime Minister at its head
- C A government made entirely of independent MPs only
- D A government formed by a single party that won every seat
Why

Under MMP, no single party usually wins enough seats to govern alone. Two or more parties often form a coalition or a confidence-and-supply agreement to make a majority.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 26 · medium

A bill's "first reading" in Parliament is:
- A The first time a bill is debated and voted on in principle, before going to a select committee Correct
- B The ceremony where a bill is signed by the King in person at Buckingham Palace
- C The first private reading of a draft bill in a Cabinet committee meeting in Wellington
- D The first time a member of the public can read the bill on the Parliament website
Why

After a bill is introduced, the House holds a first reading debate and vote. If the bill passes, it is usually sent to a select committee for detailed study and public submissions.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 27 · medium

After a bill's first reading, it is usually sent to:
- A The Governor-General, who signs it into law as soon as the first reading is complete
- B A select committee, which examines the bill in detail and hears public submissions Correct
- C The Supreme Court, which checks whether the bill is consistent with the Constitution
- D The Cabinet Office, which decides whether the bill should continue or be withdrawn
Why

After the first reading, most bills are referred to a select committee. The committee studies the bill, hears public submissions, and reports back to the House.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 28 · medium

How many readings does a bill normally have in the New Zealand House of Representatives?
- A One reading, with all detail debated in a single sitting day at the House
- B Two readings, one before and one after the Cabinet has signed the final draft text
- C Three readings, with a committee stage in between the second and third readings Correct
- D Four readings, including a separate ceremonial reading by the Governor-General
Why

A bill normally has three readings, with a select committee stage after the first reading and a committee of the whole House stage after the second reading.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 29 · medium

A "government bill" in New Zealand is most commonly:
- A A bill drafted by Cabinet and introduced into the House by a Minister Correct
- B A bill drafted by a backbench MP and put forward outside their party caucus
- C A bill from a single voter that has been sent in to Parliament by mail
- D A bill that has only been read in the Legislative Council, not in the House
Why

Most bills are government bills. They are drafted on behalf of the government and introduced by a Minister. Members' bills are introduced by non-Minister MPs.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 30 · medium

In Parliament, a "supply" debate or vote is about:
- A The supply of food, drink, and stationery to MPs working in Parliament Buildings
- B Authorising the government to spend public money in line with the budget Correct
- C Supplying voting papers to all polling places before the next general election
- D Supplying the Cabinet with new official cars and drivers each financial year
Why

"Supply" means Parliament authorising the government to spend public money. A government must hold the confidence of the House and be able to pass supply to stay in office.

Source: www.dpmc.govt.nz
Question 31 · medium

A "confidence and supply" agreement between parties means one party agrees to:
- A Run all government departments jointly with the other party as a full coalition
- B Support the larger party on votes of confidence and on the budget Correct
- C Provide free office space and supply rooms in Parliament Buildings to a smaller party
- D Take over the Prime Minister's office for half of each calendar year in turn
Why

A confidence and supply agreement is when a smaller party agrees to support the larger party on confidence votes and the budget, without joining the government as a full coalition partner.

Source: www.dpmc.govt.nz
Question 32 · medium

The "Cabinet Manual" in New Zealand is best described as:
- A The complete list of every Act of Parliament currently in force in New Zealand
- B The main guide to executive decision-making and conventions, kept by the Cabinet Office Correct
- C A handbook used by furniture-makers training as joiners and cabinet-makers in NZ
- D A list of all current Ministers and their personal contact details for media use
Why

The Cabinet Manual is the main guide to executive decision-making in New Zealand. It sets out conventions and rules around Cabinet, the Prime Minister, and the Governor-General.

Source: www.dpmc.govt.nz
Question 33 · medium

The Speaker of the House of Representatives is:
- A An MP elected by the other MPs to chair the House and keep order during debate Correct
- B A senior Cabinet Minister who chairs Cabinet meetings on behalf of the PM
- C A judge appointed to listen to debates and enforce parliamentary law in NZ
- D A senior public servant in the Cabinet Office who keeps records of debates in NZ
Why

The Speaker is an MP elected by other MPs at the start of each Parliament. The Speaker chairs sittings, applies the standing orders, and represents the House.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 34 · medium

The role of the Auditor-General in New Zealand is to:
- A Audit the spending of public money by central and local government bodies Correct
- B Audit the bank accounts of all New Zealand citizens once every five years
- C Set the annual rate of tax to be paid by individuals and companies in NZ
- D Run the Reserve Bank's monetary policy and set the official cash rate
Why

The Controller and Auditor-General audits public spending by central and local government and reports to Parliament. The role is set out in the Public Audit Act 2001.

Source: oag.parliament.nz
Question 35 · medium

The role of the Ombudsman in New Zealand is to:
- A Investigate complaints about decisions and conduct of public sector bodies Correct
- B Decide criminal cases that involve government employees as defendants in court
- C Run the Electoral Commission and oversee the official election results in NZ
- D Set local council rates and approve all council budgets in New Zealand each year
Why

The Ombudsman investigates complaints about decisions, recommendations, and conduct of central government, Crown entities, and local authorities. The role was set up by the Ombudsmen Act 1975.

Source: www.ombudsman.parliament.nz
Question 36 · medium

In New Zealand, "regional councils" are mainly responsible for:
- A Local rubbish collection and the running of public libraries in their area
- B Environmental management, including water, air quality, and pest control Correct
- C Setting and collecting national income tax in the regions of New Zealand
- D Running primary and secondary state schools in towns and cities of NZ
Why

Regional councils handle environmental management, public transport, flood control, and biosecurity. There are 11 regional councils across New Zealand.

Source: www.lgnz.co.nz
Question 37 · medium

In New Zealand, "territorial authorities" (city and district councils) mainly handle:
- A National defence, foreign affairs, and the issuing of passports to citizens of NZ
- B Local services such as water, sewage, roads, parks, and libraries Correct
- C Environmental management of catchments, air quality, and biosecurity in their area
- D Court hearings for traffic offences and minor crimes in their council district area
Why

City and district councils provide most local services, including roading, water, rubbish, parks, libraries, building consents, and bylaws. There are 67 territorial authorities.

Source: www.lgnz.co.nz
Question 38 · medium

Before 2004, the final court of appeal for New Zealand cases was:
- A The High Court, sitting in any of the four main centres of New Zealand
- B The Privy Council (Judicial Committee of the Privy Council in London) Correct
- C The Court of Appeal, which became the highest court for almost all NZ cases
- D The District Court, which heard final appeals in some criminal cases for NZ
Why

Before the Supreme Court of New Zealand began work in 2004, final appeals went to the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council in London. New Zealand cases no longer go to the Privy Council.

Source: www.courtsofnz.govt.nz
Question 39 · medium

In New Zealand, "Royal Assent" is given by:
- A The Prime Minister, who signs the bill on behalf of Cabinet at the Beehive office
- B The Governor-General, who signs a bill so that it becomes an Act of Parliament Correct
- C The Speaker, who reads the bill aloud at the end of the third reading debate
- D The Chief Justice, who signs the bill after the third reading and committee stage
Why

Royal Assent is the final step. The Governor-General signs the bill on behalf of the King after Parliament has passed it, and it then becomes an Act of Parliament.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 40 · medium

In New Zealand, the executive branch of government is made up of:
- A All Members of Parliament, including the Speaker and any independent MPs
- B The Sovereign (represented by the Governor-General), Cabinet, and Ministers Correct
- C The judges of the District Court, High Court, and Court of Appeal
- D The Auditor-General, the Ombudsman, and the Parliamentary Commissioner for Environment
Why

The executive branch carries out the law. In New Zealand it includes the Sovereign (represented by the Governor-General), the Prime Minister, Cabinet, and Ministers supported by the public service.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 41 · medium

In New Zealand's constitutional arrangement, the judiciary is:
- A Part of the executive branch and reports to the Prime Minister of New Zealand
- B An independent branch of government that interprets and applies the law Correct
- C Elected by the public at general elections every three years across NZ
- D Made up of senior MPs who sit as judges in addition to their parliamentary duties
Why

The judiciary is independent of the executive and Parliament. Judges interpret and apply the law. Judicial independence is a key constitutional principle in NZ.

Source: www.courtsofnz.govt.nz
Question 42 · hard

What is "Royal Assent" in New Zealand law-making?
- A A formal Royal visit by the King to open a new session of Parliament in Wellington
- B The final step where the Governor-General signs a bill so it becomes an Act Correct
- C The King's written approval allowing a general election to be held by the Government
- D A Royal pardon granted to a person convicted of a serious crime under the Crimes Act
Why

Royal Assent is the final step in making a law. The Governor-General signs the bill on behalf of the King, and it then becomes an Act of Parliament.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 43 · hard

What is a "select committee" in New Zealand's Parliament?
- A A small panel of judges who review draft laws in private
- B A small group of MPs that examines bills and hears public submissions Correct
- C The group of party leaders who decide the order of business
- D The Cabinet committee that drafts new government policy
Why

A select committee is a small group of MPs that studies a bill in detail and hears submissions from the public before reporting back to the House.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 44 · hard

Which Act mainly sets out the role of the Governor-General and the structure of New Zealand's government?
- A The Constitution Act 1986 Correct
- B The Education Act 1989
- C The Privacy Act 2020
- D The Reserve Bank Act 2021
Why

The Constitution Act 1986 sets out the basic rules about the Sovereign, the Governor-General, the executive, Parliament, and the judiciary in New Zealand.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 45 · hard

The "caretaker convention" in New Zealand applies:
- A When all New Zealand state primary and secondary schools are on a scheduled term break across the country
- B When a government has lost the confidence of the House or after an election before a new government takes office Correct
- C When the Reserve Bank of New Zealand closes for an extended public holiday weekend or annual maintenance period
- D During the formal swearing-in ceremony of any newly appointed Cabinet Minister or judge at Government House
Why

Under the caretaker convention, a government in caretaker mode tries not to make major new policy decisions. It applies after an election until a new government is formed, or if the government loses confidence.

Source: www.dpmc.govt.nz
Question 46 · hard

Who is the "Leader of the Opposition" in New Zealand?
- A The senior judge who hears all electoral law cases
- B The leader of the largest party not in government Correct
- C The Speaker who chairs debates in the House
- D The Prime Minister of the current government
Why

The Leader of the Opposition is the leader of the largest party in Parliament that is not part of the government. The role is recognised by law and gets extra resources.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 47 · hard

In New Zealand, the convention that the Governor-General acts on the advice of Ministers means they:
- A Can refuse Royal Assent to any law passed by Parliament that they personally disagree with
- B Almost always follow the advice of the responsible Minister or the Prime Minister Correct
- C Make government policy decisions on their own initiative when Cabinet cannot reach agreement
- D Run general elections and decide on electoral boundaries and the timing of by-elections too
Why

By long-standing constitutional convention, the Governor-General acts on the advice of elected Ministers. They have rare reserve powers but use them only in unusual cases.

Source: gg.govt.nz
Question 48 · hard

In Parliament, the "committee of the whole House" stage of a bill involves:
- A All MPs going through the bill clause by clause and proposing amendments Correct
- B A small committee of senior judges checking the bill for legal accuracy issues
- C A meeting of all members of the public who made submissions on the bill earlier
- D A closed Cabinet meeting where Ministers vote whether to continue with the bill
Why

The committee of the whole House is a stage where all MPs sit as a committee and go through the bill in detail, considering and voting on amendments.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 49 · hard

A "members' bill" in New Zealand is:
- A A bill introduced by an MP who is not a Minister, often selected by ballot Correct
- B A bill that applies only to one named individual member of the public
- C A confidential bill that only members of one party can read or vote on
- D A bill drafted by paying members of a registered political party in NZ
Why

Members' bills are introduced by MPs who are not Ministers. Slots on the order paper are usually drawn at random from a ballot of bills.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 50 · hard

The "caretaker convention" in New Zealand applies after an election until:
- A The new Parliament's first sitting day, regardless of whether a new government has formed
- B A new government has been formed and the Prime Minister has been sworn in Correct
- C The Governor-General has signed the formal warrants of all incoming Ministers in person
- D The Speaker of the House of Representatives has been chosen by the new House
Why

Under the caretaker convention, the existing government keeps running things but avoids major new policy decisions until a new government is formed.

Source: www.dpmc.govt.nz
Question 51 · hard

In New Zealand, the three "Officers of Parliament" are:
- A The Auditor-General, the Ombudsman, and the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment Correct
- B The Governor-General, the Prime Minister, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives
- C The Chief Justice, the Solicitor-General, and the Attorney-General of New Zealand
- D The Clerk of the House, the Sergeant-at-Arms, and the Deputy Speaker
Why

The three Officers of Parliament are the Controller and Auditor-General, the Ombudsman, and the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment. They report to Parliament rather than to the government.

Source: www.parliament.nz
Question 52 · hard

The Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment in New Zealand:
- A Issues fines to companies that breach environmental rules under any New Zealand law
- B Investigates and reports on environmental issues, independently of any government Correct
- C Manages all national parks and reserves on behalf of the Minister for Conservation
- D Sets the rates of environmental taxes paid by industries each financial year in NZ
Why

The Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment is an independent officer who reports to Parliament. The Commissioner reviews environmental issues and makes recommendations, but does not regulate or enforce.

Source: pce.parliament.nz
Question 53 · hard

A "unitary authority" in New Zealand is a council that:
- A Has all of New Zealand under one single nationwide council in place of any others
- B Combines the functions of a regional council and a territorial authority in one body Correct
- C Is jointly run by central government and a private company on behalf of an area
- D Has been merged with the Department of Internal Affairs to handle local services
Why

A unitary authority does both regional and territorial council jobs. Examples include Auckland Council, Nelson City, Tasman, Marlborough, and Gisborne.

Source: www.lgnz.co.nz
Question 54 · hard

The "Letters Patent Constituting the Office of Governor-General of New Zealand 1983" are important because they:
- A Set out the office, powers, and duties of the Governor-General of New Zealand Correct
- B Created the New Zealand Defence Force and gave it the power to defend the country
- C Established te reo Maori as the only official language of New Zealand law
- D Set up the New Zealand Reserve Bank and its powers to issue notes and coins
Why

The 1983 Letters Patent set out the office of the Governor-General. They are part of New Zealand's constitutional arrangements, alongside the Constitution Act 1986.

Source: gg.govt.nz
Question 55 · hard

The Constitution Act 1986 in New Zealand mainly:
- A Sets out a single complete written constitution that overrides all other Acts in NZ
- B Sets out core rules about the Sovereign, Parliament, the executive, and the judiciary Correct
- C Sets up the Reserve Bank of New Zealand and the Treasury for fiscal policy
- D Sets out the rules for who can become a citizen of New Zealand by birth or grant
Why

The Constitution Act 1986 sets out core rules about the Sovereign, the Governor-General, Parliament, the Executive, and the Judiciary. It is one of several pieces of New Zealand's uncodified constitution.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 56 · hard

In New Zealand, the Court of Appeal mainly:
- A Hears appeals from the High Court and from jury trials held in the District Court Correct
- B Hears the first trial of any case involving a charge of murder under the Crimes Act
- C Decides parking and minor noise complaints in the four largest cities of NZ
- D Issues passports to citizens who have been refused one by the DIA on review
Why

The Court of Appeal mainly hears appeals from the High Court and criminal jury trials in the District Court. It is below the Supreme Court and above the High Court.

Source: www.courtsofnz.govt.nz

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