If history is a guide, any future referendum on extending the parliamentary term to four years will be rejected by New Zealanders. Two previous referendums, in 1967 and 1990, saw nearly 70% of voters favour retaining a three-year term.
But it’s clearly an idea that won’t go away. With the Term of Parliament (Enabling 4-year Term) Legislation Amendment Bill now due for its second reading – and expected to pass into law – New Zealanders will once again be tasked with deciding on this significant constitutional question.
