Find out more information about the NZBPT
The New Zealand Business and Parliament Trust hosted its fourth and final seminar of 2024 on Wednesday the 13th of November, titled “Exercising Government through Parliament”. Held in Parliament’s Grand Hall, the seminar provided corporate attendees the opportunity to hear from guest speakers, including many MPs, and attend Question Time. NZBPT Board Chair Brent McAnulty presided.
The Hon Barbara Kuriger spoke about her role as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, and explained some Parliamentary procedure. David Wilson, the Clerk of the House, spoke about the work of his office in both managing the House and providing support services to enable Parliamentary business to achieve its objective. The Hon Scott Simpson and Camilla Belich MP spoke about the roles and responsibilities of party whips. After a morning tea break, James Meager MP informed attendees about the Select Committee process and how submitters should prepare themselves. The Hon Paul Goldsmith provided insight into the work of ministers, and the Rt Hon Chris Hipkins MP spoke about leading the opposition.
The seminar broke for lunch in the neighbouring Legislative Council Chamber, where attendees were joined by MPs. It was here that Kirsty Parkhill, University of Waikato 2023 winner of the Trust’s Tertiary Prize, was presented with a certificate of attainment. Attendees then went to the Speaker’s Gallery to view part of Question Time before hearing from Jason Walls regarding the role of the Parliamentary Press Gallery and the media in general. Following the afternoon tea break, the Hon Nicole McKee provided insight into working as part of a coalition. The seminar concluded with Cushla Tangaere-Manuel MP and Andy Foster MP, two newly elected MPs, speaking about the importance of representing and engaging with the public.