Today in History

1949 Election of first National government

The Labour Party, led by Peter Fraser, was defeated by Sidney Holland's National Party after 14 years in office. The election heralded the beginning of a long period of National dominance, with that party remaining in power for 29 of the next 35 years.

Labour had taken power after its landslide victory in the 1935 election. This government, led by Michael Joseph Savage until his death in 1940, is best remembered for its landmark social welfare reforms, especially the Social Security Act of 1938 and the state housing scheme.

The second phase of the first Labour government was dominated by the Second World War. Savage's successor, Fraser, was involved in the establishment of the United Nations in 1945 and some argued he was distracted by events overseas.

By the time of the 1946 election it was clear that Labour's hold on power was under threat. The National Party, which had been formed in 1936 from a merger of the defeated Reform and United parties, was mounting a more credible challenge under Holland's leadership. Fraser, in contrast, seemed jaded and was in poor health. Voters were increasingly tired of ongoing shortages and restrictions after the war. Despite this, Labour held on for a narrow election victory, the difference being its control of the four Maori seats.

By 1949 National's promise of a new era of prosperity and freedom seemed increasingly attractive to many New Zealanders. Its commitment to retain most of Labour's social welfare policies also enhanced its popular appeal. In the end Fraser's government was defeated by a 12-seat margin. This election was also notable for being the last in which voting in the four Maori seats was held the day before the general poll.

Image: National Party poster, 1949 (Timeframes)