The Debate

Three reasons for a republic

Chair — Wed, 23 May 2007 22:37:29 +1200

The three reasons for a republic sets out the main the arguments for why New Zealand should become a republic. They are more in depth than we have set out here, but for the sake of simplicity they have been shortened. We expand on the points below throughout this website. If there's something you'd like to comment on, or dispute, contact us and tell us what you think.

How much change?

Chair — Sat, 02 Jun 2007 20:11:16 +1200

Opponents of a republic have made a number of disingenuous suggestions that a republic brings about questions on the place of a Treaty, the restoration of an upper house, New Zealand's Commonwealth membership or a written constitution. Almost all of these arguments designed to create confusion or are based on the view that supporters of a republic seek wider change than simply creating a New Zealand head of state.

No doubt there will be claims that there are nefarious forces at work, that supporters of a republic are crazed anti-British individuals. But in truth, we're simply advocates of a change that we see as being of benefit to New Zealand.

Defending the monarchy

Chair — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 14:01:31 +1200

This page looks at the arguments put forward in defence of New Zealand's monarchy

The facts

Chair — Fri, 20 Apr 2007 16:15:00 +1200

This page presents the key facts about republicanism in New Zealand. We will develop our list gradually as questions about the facts set out here are raised, and link to relevant pages for specific issues and questions in the debate. If you have a question that isn't answered here, contact us and we will try to include it in the future.

Why we need a republic

Chair — Fri, 02 Mar 2007 23:49:27 +1300

We believe that a New Zealander should be our head of state. They should be elected democratically and be accountable to all New Zealanders.

These ideas are the heart of republicanism, where power comes from the people. New Zealanders are increasingly supporting a republic. Support has doubled in the last decade, as people realise that our system must change. The reasons for change include:

Answering back

Chair — Sun, 14 Jan 2007 11:24:08 +1300

On this page, we look at some of the arguments put forward against a republic, and answer the claims made in support of the monarchy.