New Zealand elections

New Zealand is a representative democracy. Members of the House of Representatives, commonly called "Parliament", normally gain their parliamentary seats through nationwide general elections, or in by-elections. General elections are usually held every three years; they may be held at an earlier date (a "snap" election) in the event of a vote of no confidence or other exceptional circumstances. A by-election is held to fill a vacancy arising during a parliamentary term. The next general election will take place on 23 September 2017.

New Zealand has a multi-party system due to proportional representation. The most significant constitutional change in 20th century New Zealand was the introduction of the mixed-member proportional (MMP) voting system in 1993. The Chief Electoral Office and the Electoral Commission co-ordinate the electoral system.

Local government politicians, including mayors, councillors and District Health Boards are voted in during the local elections, held every three years. These elections used both single transferable vote (STV) and first past the post (FPP) systems in 2007.

The first national elections in New Zealand took place in 1853, the year after the British government passed the New Zealand Constitution Act 1852. Women's suffrage was introduced in 1893, with New Zealand being the first modern country to do so.

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