New Zealand needs an office of Head of State that is authentic, effective and accountable. Not one tainted by corruption and scandal. Our Governor-General pays a dignified visit to the New Zealand citizens of Tokelau while Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is arrested on suspicion of corruption. His brother Charles and nephew William are under scrutiny for their role in appointing him to a trade envoy position that allowed him access to so much sensitive information. Both of them knowing he was close friends with two convicted sex offenders.

The Office of Governor General is already fulfilling the role of Head of State but it is in need of several improvements. We need to democratise the method of selection, clarify the reserve powers, and ensure proper transparency and public accountability. Our constitutional processes are still being tainted by our association with the British monarchy. Removing Andrew from the line of succession is a process that 15 other countries will have to agree to. We have an ineffectual and out-dated approach to appointing our most important diplomatic and constitutional role. So we need to finalise the cultural and constitutional transition from realm to republic.

The answer to the monarchy problem is very simple. Transition our Governor-General to being our actual Head of State by 2040. Celebrate the 200th anniversary of Te Tiriti having made that change. So that Britain’s Head of State and New Zealand’s Head of State can meet as equals. Two sovereign and distinct nations.