Study guide
Everything the citizenship test will cover, chapter by chapter. Read a chapter, then practise it with the matching topic quiz.
Chapter 1
The Bill of Rights Act
The New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990 sets out the fundamental rights and freedoms of everyone in New Zealand. It applies to the actions of the government and anyone performing a public function.
Chapter 2
Human rights
The Human Rights Act 1993 protects people in New Zealand from discrimination. Together with the Bill of Rights Act, it makes sure everyone is treated fairly whatever their race, sex, religion, age, disability, or background.
Chapter 3
Voting rights and democratic principles
New Zealand is one of the world's oldest continuous democracies. Free and fair elections, held by secret ballot under the MMP system, decide who represents New Zealanders in Parliament.
Chapter 4
New Zealand's system of government
New Zealand is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. Power is shared between Parliament, the Government, and the courts — with the Treaty of Waitangi as the nation's founding document.
Chapter 5
Criminal offences
Living in New Zealand means living under New Zealand law. This chapter covers the offences every resident and future citizen should understand — from violence and dishonesty to driving, alcohol, and firearms rules.
Chapter 6
Travelling on a New Zealand passport
A New Zealand passport is one of the privileges of citizenship — one of the most powerful travel documents in the world. With it come rights, protections, and responsibilities when you travel.