About this Book

New Zealand's House of Representatives celebrated its 150th anniversary May 24, 2004. This history provides an account of the institution and its practices, the ferment and drama of politics and the colourful personalities who contributed to the culture of the House. The story moves from the assumption of responsible government in the 1850s to the political struggle the House had with the Governor and with the Legislative Council. It looks at the impact of the extension of the franchise, burgeoning popular participation in politics, the formation of political parties and the reign of two-party politics in the twentieth century. The radical changes of the last two decades with the adoption of MMP are covered in depth; they represent a fundamental shift in the balance of executive government and Parliament which is a central theme of the book.