Support for MMP split, poll shows

Opinion is split on whether to retain MMP, a new poll shows.

A referendum is being held on the issue at next year's election.

A UMR Research poll of 750 adults found 49 per cent wanted to retain MMP while 42 per cent favoured changing.

Reverting to the previous first past the post system was supported by 37 per cent.

There was support for other proportional voting systems; 18 per cent thought single transferable vote was the best option, 12 per cent backed preferential voting, and 4 per cent the supplementary member system.

Women (55 per cent) and younger people (58 per cent of those aged under 30) were stronger supporters of MMP than men (43 per cent in favour) and older people -- 39 per cent of over 60s wanted to retain MMP.

A follow up question showed there was strong support for changing MMP. Only 23 per cent did not want it altered, 40 per cent wanted it changed and kept while 32 per cent still preferred a different system altogether.

Next year's referendum will ask if the current MMP system should be retained. If the response is yes voters can express a preference from four systems.

If a majority don't want to retain MMP, a second, binding referendum will be held with the 2014 general election asking voters to choose between MMP and the preferred option chosen in the first referendum.

Today's poll was conducted by telephone between February 18 and 22 and had an error of margin of 3.6 per cent.

- NZPA