Reform Government of New Zealand

It remained in power for more than two decades, testimony not only to its popular policies and dynamic leadership but also to its organisation and party structure.

Over the next few months, however, enough switched sides for the Liberal government to lose a confidence vote, thus bringing Reform to power in July 1912.

Massey retained his position as Prime Minister, with Liberal leader Joseph Ward becoming unofficial co-leader.

Economic problems had reduced the government's popularity, and the election left Reform with only 37 seats - four short of a majority.

Massey was forced to cobble together a coalition of Reform, independents, and two Liberal MPs who were later rewarded with seats in the Legislative Council.

Although the party gained an additional 18 seats, its share of the vote rose by only 8.3%, suggesting that it benefitted from vote-splitting in many electorates.