The Cabinet Manual (previously the Cabinet Office Manual until 2001[1]) is a government document in New Zealand which outlines the main laws, rules and constitutional conventions affecting the operation of the New Zealand Government.
It has been described as providing "comprehensive, cohesive and clear advice on a number of key aspects of executive action.
[5] The idea of such a document was proposed by Prime Minister Sidney Holland about 30 years prior.
A foreword by Prime Minister Robert Muldoon in the first edition states: It is timely that nearly 30 years after the late Sir Sidney Holland issued his directive to the Secretary of the Cabinet all the lore of the Cabinet system should be consolidated.
It will be useful to them in observing and setting the highest standards for the orderly and efficient conduct of the Government's business.