New Zealand's Democratic Values: What the Citizenship Test Expects You to Know
A study guide covering NZ's democratic values, social norms, and cultural expectations that appear in the citizenship test — including tolerance, the rule of law, and civic participation.
What Are New Zealand's Core Values?
The citizenship test assesses whether applicants understand the values that underpin life in New Zealand. These are not just rules — they reflect the kind of society New Zealanders have built together.
Democracy and the Rule of Law
New Zealand is a democracy. Elections are free, fair, and held every three years. All adults — regardless of ethnicity, religion, or background — have the right to vote.
The rule of law means no one is above the law — not the government, not politicians, not police. Everyone must follow the same laws.
Respect and Tolerance
New Zealand society is built on mutual respect. Discrimination on the basis of race, gender, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, or ethnicity is illegal under the Human Rights Act 1993.
New Zealand is a diverse, multicultural country. Tolerance and respect for difference are core social values.
Freedom of Expression and Religion
New Zealanders have the right to hold and express opinions — including opinions the government disagrees with. This includes freedom of the press.
Everyone is free to practise their religion — or no religion. The government does not endorse any religion.
Gender Equality
New Zealand was the first country in the world to give women the right to vote (1893). Gender equality is a fundamental value. Men and women have equal rights under the law.
Civic Participation
Being a citizen means participating in society:
- Voting — Enrol and vote in elections
- Jury duty — Attend if summoned, unless lawfully excused
- Paying taxes — Contributing to public services
- Obeying the law — Following NZ law even when it differs from your country of origin
- Respecting others — Regardless of background
What This Means in Practice
Living in New Zealand means accepting these values — not just on paper, but in how you treat others. The citizenship test reflects this. You are expected to understand not just the rules, but the reasons behind them.
Study tip: For each value, ask yourself — "What law or institution upholds this?"
Test your knowledge with our free 20-question practice exam. No sign-up required.