Four parody political parties that have existed in New Zealand

As far as elections go, this one has been extraordinary - promises, lies, scandal, resignations, hackers, Dirty Politics and two Whaledumps.

Of course we have to take the election seriously - after all, we're choosing representatives to govern the country and make decisions that affect each of us. But there should always be room for a little tongue-in-cheek fun.

The team at TV3 comedy show 7 Days has had fun redesigning political billboards as part of its own election campaign #Derision14. And this year we have satirist Ben Uffindell's Civilian Party.

Parody parties are nothing new. Here are four that have existed in New Zealand politics.

Imperial British Conservative Party

In 1974, the Imperial British Conservative Party launched its election campaign. The farcical party, founded by The Wizard of New Zealand, stood for the traditions of British imperialism "in the face of capitalism, globalisation and the distinct lack of culture in Christchurch."

The McGillicuddy Serious Party

The McGillicuddy Serious Party launched in 1984 and aimed to achieve the impossible by attempting the ridiculous. "We promise to fix society all at once by completely abolishing parliament, while at the same time setting up the most comprehensive social system known to humanity.

"And the best part is that it will be fun for everyone. All McGillicuddy Serious policies are tested to the standards set by our guiding philosophy: Funism."

The party stood candidates in the 1984, 1987, 1990, 1993, 1996 and 1999 General Elections and the 1986, 1989, 1992, 1995 and 1998 Local Body elections; along with local-body and parliamentary by-elections and university student association elections.

Bill and Ben Party

Formed by TV3 satirical sports show Pulp Sport's frontmen, Jamie (Bill) Linehan and Ben Boyce, the Bill and Ben Party was formed in 2008. It voluntarily deregistered in 2010.

During the 2008 general election, the Bill and Ben Party gained the ninth highest number of votes out of the 19 standing parties.

According to their Facebook party page, "Unlike other political parties that promise so much and deliver so little, the Bill and Ben Party promise to promise nothing. And yes, we do realise that..."

The Civilian Party

Ben Uffindell founded the Civilian Party this year following the success of his online satirical paper - The Civilian.

Policies include:

• Increased taxes for the poor and decreased taxes for the wealthy to disincentivise poverty.

• Giving a llama to every child living in poverty.

• One free tub of ice cream for every citizen.

• Declaring national independence from the city of Hamilton.

The party made headlines when it received more than $30,000 in political-party funding from the Electoral Commission.