Support for a four year term -- from all but one Party

Te Pati Maori was the only one opposing a Bill letting Governments rule for four years.

The Bill's just passed its first reading, and will go to Select Committee before returning to Parliament for further votes.

It would be put to referendum, and could require more Opposition say in Select Committees.

Minister for Regulation David Seymour says he'd prefer a four-year term, regardless of his position in Parliament.

He says parties as far apart as National and the Greens are calling for more stability.

Te Pati Maori co-leader Rawiri Waititi fears what the Bill would mean if this Government were re-elected, giving the Coalition a longer term.

He says Maori couldn't stand another four years.