New Zealand’s Calm Approach to the Queen’s Downfall
Despite the royal drama in the Pacific, New Zealand plans a leisurely transition to a republic.
Why Now? Why Nope?
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says she’s not feeling the “rush” to ditch the crown after Queen Elizabeth’s passing. “We’ve got a ton of other stuff to juggle,” she told reporters, and the idea of becoming a republic feels like a long‑term project, not a quick fix.
What’s the Deal With the Monarchy?
New Zealand is one of 15 Commonwealth realms that still recognise the British monarch as head of state—Australia, Canada, and a handful of others join the club, but it’s mostly ceremonial. Debate has simmered for years: should the nation replace the queen with a local figure? The answer, according to Ardern, is “yes, eventually,” but not “tomorrow.”
Current Plans & Upcoming Events
- July 26: a one‑off public holiday to honour the queen’s memory.
- Ardern’ll represent New Zealand, along with the Governor General, at the state funeral in London.
- Across the Tasman Sea, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese favors a republic too, but vows no referendum during his first term.
In short, the country will honour the queen in style, but only when the time is right will the head of state chart a new course. For now, the focus stays on the present: “I don’t see it as a short‑term measure or anything on the immediate agenda,” Ardern concludes, keeping casual cool while the world watches.
