New Zealanders appeared happy with some sort of proportional representation, Prime Minister John Key said today as his Cabinet started work on holding another referendum into the electoral system.
"I think there's becoming increasing comfort that MMP is working," Mr Key said at his post-Cabinet press conference.
"I tend to be of the view now that New Zealanders have become accustomed to a proportional system, so I personally have been of the view it would be unlikely to go back to first past the post.
"Whether they might consider an alternative proportional system is something that's in their hands. I think it's a bit early to tell at this point."
Cabinet today started discussing the referendum on the electoral system.
The Green Party disagrees a referendum is necessary but Mr Key said it was an election promise he would keep.
"New Zealanders clearly believed that they were owed the opportunity to kick the tyres on MMP and I think it's important that I honour that election pledge," Mr Key said.
Under the campaign pledge a referendum would be held before or at the same time as the 2011 general election, asking voters whether they want to change from MMP to another system.
If a majority want a change, a second referendum would be held offering options to replace MMP.
Ministers are discussing the wording of the referendum and whether both questions could be dealt with at the same time, in a single referendum.
Mr Key said it was a complex issue and voters would need to understand the different systems on offer if a majority decided they wanted a change.
It was possible the first referendum could be held before the next election, he said, but he appeared to indicate he favoured holding it at the same time.
"It would be cheaper, and because of its constitutional nature you do want widespread support in terms of voting," he said.
The referendum will be binding and simple majorities of 51 percent would decide the issues.
Green Party co-leader Metiria Turei said MMP was fair and gave all voters a say.
"MMP has delivered representative democracy to New Zealand. It is a modern, fair system which is under attack from small, right wing groups that want to see a return to the 1980s," she said.
"People can be proud of our current democracy. More women are represented in Parliament and it has increased representation for Maori, Asian and Pasifika communities. It allows a wide range of views to be heard in Parliament."
She said small parties had made positive achievements.
"The Government needs to review, with full public consultation, how MMP is working before it spends millions of dollars on a referendum. A good independent review would help New Zealand voters make an informed decision about what voting system is best.
"MMP helps to keep government honest. New Zealanders deserve a modern democratic system that is fair for everyone."
