Parliament preparing seats and offices for up to 131 MPs

Up to 131 MPs could sit in New Zealand's debating chamber after the election, on current numbers. Parliament's administration is preparing for that, according to RNZ.

The chamber currently has enough chairs for 124 MPs, including the Speaker, who chairs debates. Clerk of the House Dr David Wilson said work was under way to fit more MPs in by changing the seating arrangement.

Parliamentary Service, the body that runs Parliament's administration and support services, has been planning for a larger Parliament for some time. Its chief executive, Rafael Gonzalez-Montero, said the service is looking at several options. He said he was confident all members could be accommodated within the chamber.

Office space for members and staff will be stretched for a short time, Gonzalez-Montero said.

A new Members' Building behind Parliament is due to be ready to occupy in April next year. It has capacity for around 30 backbench MPs, meaning those who do not hold ministerial roles.

The chamber's numbers have changed recently. After the 2023 election, 123 MPs sat in the chamber, then a record number. That fell to 122 after the resignation of National MP Judith Collins.