Often called the 'work-horse' or 'power-house' of Parliament select committees play a large part in the legislative process but their work is often done away from the cameras meaning their existence is often unheard of outside of Parliament's walls.
A select committee is a group of MPs from various parties which meet regularly to consider legislation, hear views from the public and stakeholders, consider petitions, conduct inquiries, or receive briefings from officials on something related to their subject.
Parliament has 12 subject select committees (like finance and justice) and five specialist committees (like privileges and standing orders).
To get an idea of some of the work they do and what has made an impact on the MPs on committees, Daniela Maoate-Cox spoke to the chairs of the Health and Maori Affairs committee who both say their committees are collaborative and collegial despite having a mix of MPs from opposite sides of the House.
The Maori Affairs Select Committee Room at Parliament. Photo: VNP / Daniela Maoate-Cox
