New Zealand Constitution Act 1852 passed (1852–1854)

The New Zealand Constitution Act 1852 was an act of the Parliament of the United Kingdom granting self-government to the Colony of New Zealand. It received royal assent on 30 June 1852, following the suspension of the 1846 Act. The legislation established a bicameral General Assembly and provincial structures, taking effect in January 1853.

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Background and detail

Background. In 1850, New Zealand was governed as a Crown colony. The previous constitution, the New Zealand Constitution Act 1846, was largely suspended for six years because Governor George Grey opposed its implementation, particularly regarding Māori districts and settler readiness. Only the creation of New Ulster and New Munster provinces remained operative from the 1846 Act.

Legislative Process. The Parliament of the United Kingdom adopted Grey's draft constitution, which established provincial and central representative assemblies. The Parliament rejected Grey's proposal for a governor elected by the General Assembly, retaining the governor's power to grant, refuse, or reserve assent to bills. The Act received royal assent on 30 June 1852.

Implementation. The Act took effect upon proclamation by Governor George Grey on 17 January 1853. The first provincial elections occurred during 1853, and the first general election for the General Assembly was held between July and October 1853. The Parliament met in Auckland in May 1854, with ministers added to the executive council.

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Sources

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