The Office of the Clerk in New Zealand has unveiled the fifth edition of the revered reference book, ‘Parliamentary Practice in New Zealand’. The comprehensive guide, initially published in 1985 by David McGee, a long-serving Clerk, has been the go-to source for understanding parliamentary rules, practices, and procedures.

Reflecting Evolving Parliamentary Practices

The latest edition encapsulates the updates and developments in New Zealand’s parliamentary system up until early 2023. Noteworthy adjustments include the establishment of the Petitions Committee, alterations from the Review of Standing Orders 2020, and the enactment of the Legislation Act 2019. The edition also reflects the adaptations necessitated by the global COVID-19 pandemic.

First to Feature Parliamentary Photography

Marking a significant first, this edition incorporates photography that vividly documents democracy in action within the New Zealand Parliament. This visual element brings to life the otherwise textual chronicles of Parliament’s workings, adding an engaging, human touch to the guide.

Striving for Greater Accessibility

The fifth edition has undergone major revisions to enhance accessibility for Members of Parliament, parliamentary staff, and the general public. It aims to be more user-friendly, shedding light on how Parliament has modernized and adapted to the multifaceted challenges brought about by the pandemic. This new edition, now available online and in the Parliament gift shop, strives to be a more intuitive, enlightening resource for those interested in the machinations of New Zealand’s democracy.

David Wilson, the current Clerk of the House and editor of the new edition, underscored the dedicated effort by the staff of the Office of the Clerk and Parliamentary Service in producing this valuable guide. The publication continues to honor the legacy of David McGee, whose significant contributions to the parliamentary guide remain invaluable, even after his retirement.