Constitutional review: let's put a New Zealand republic on the agenda

MEDIA RELEASE 8 December 2010

"The Republican Movement is determined to put an independent head of state on the agenda at the constitutional review just announced" said Lewis Holden, chair of the Republican Movement.

The much-anticipated review was announced today. It did not include a New Zealand republic in its terms of reference.

"It seems strange such a wide-ranging review will not consider the role of the head of state, the highest constitutional office. While we are disappointed, we are confident New Zealanders will want the issue on the agenda - even if it is relegated to an 'other' issue" continued Mr Holden.

"On the bright side, this review will probably clarify issues around becoming a republic. But it's impossible to talk about New Zealand's constitutional future without discussing a republic" concluded Mr Holden.

ENDS

Media contact: Lewis Holden 027 699 1350 (m)

The Republican Movement is a network of New Zealanders who want our head of state to be elected by New Zealanders - either directly or indirectly.

We are committed to:

• involving all New Zealanders in the republic debate;
• providing relevant and reliable information;
• focusing on ideas, not personalities;
• winning a referendum to establish the republic;

Creating a republic does not require any change to the Treaty of
Waitangi, flag or Commonwealth membership. For more information, see our
website: www.republic.org.nz