An opinion poll has found that just under half of New Zealanders want the MMP electoral system retained.
The UMR Research poll found that 49% of respondents favoured keeping the system introduced at the 1996 election while 42% wanted to switch to another system.
The poll was conducted after the Government announced it would hold a referendum on MMP at next year's general election.
Radio New Zealand's political editor says voters were asked the same questions that they will be asked in the referendum.
Young people and women are stronger supporters of retaining MMP, according to the poll, while retired people and those living in rural areas more strongly support change.
Those polled were also asked about proposed changes to MMP: 23% supported retaining it as it is and another 40% said they would support it with changes.
A total of 750 people were polled between 18 and 22 February. The margin of error was plus or minus 3.6%.
