Regional differences in Westminster-style Parliaments

[james_davis_nicoll]

New Zealand's parliamentary style appears to include more spontaneous outbursts of celebratory song than Canada's.

Comments

[errolwi.livejournal.com]

I don't think it's spontaneous when the Speaker announces it before the results (waiata = song)?

People may find this 'translation' of the significance useful.
http://zeborahnz.livejournal.com/126768.html

[viktor-haag.livejournal.com]

My understanding is that a waiata is often given at moments of social import like this, and perhaps this is not the first time this has happened in the NZ parliament.

It reminded me of my youth. In a completely different context, but nevertheless. (606, for those who know what that means.)