The Government of New Zealand is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. It is based on the Westminster system.
The head of state in New Zealand is the monarch of the United Kingdom. The monarch is represented by the Governor-General. The head of government is the Prime Minister. He is also a member of the Parliament of New Zealand. The current head of state is Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of New Zealand; the current Prime Minister is Jacinda Ardern. The Prime Minister is the leader of the Cabinet.
Elections are held every 3 years.
New Zealand has been a self-governing country since 1853.