List of New Zealand governments

This article lists spans of government under a party or coalition, as well as ministries under a prime minister.

[6] At the same time, a period of government under a particular party might be led by a succession of prime ministers and comprise multiple ministries.

An exception to this occurred in 2020, when the incumbent Labour Government, led by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, received a 'clear majority' (over 50%).

In practice, the country was initially governed by the Governor, George Grey, with the advice of the Civil Secretary and some officials that were appointed back in 1840/41, namely Andrew Sinclair (Colonial Secretary), William Swainson (Attorney-General), and Alexander Shepherd (Colonial Treasurer).

The second Ministry led by Thomas Forsaith, which briefly formed during the second session of the 1st Parliament, also had no real power.