Politics 756 is an advanced course on New Zealand politics and government. Some of the topics covered may include New Zealand’s constitutional arrangements, political leadership, participation and turnout, policy, electoral systems, electoral and parliamentary tactics, party systems, and Māori politics. In the first few weeks we look at democratic governance in New Zealand, including New Zealand's history of political and institutional reform, representation and participation, parliamentary sovereignty, executive power, and New Zealand's constitution. Building on this, we will also examine the structure, functions, and powers of New Zealand’s political institutions under MMP, including government formation, party systems, and limits on public power.