The Republic of New Zealand Party

Anzac Day 2007 - Kerry Bevin and Bevan Berg at the Auckland Cenotaph

The Republic of New Zealand Party believes New Zealand service men and women should pledge their allegiance to the people of New Zealand, rather than a foreign queen 12,000 miles away.

Deputy Leader, Wayne Hawkins, said it was timely to ask this question on the eve of Anzac Day, an important day where we remember all those who paid with their lives in the service of our country.

Mr Hawkins expressed concern that we still pay allegiance to an English monarch. “Why was Prince Andrew here recently reviewing a regiment of our troops? Why are our ships still named Her Majesty’s Ship?”

Mr Hawkins said this practice was an anachronism.

“We are not a British colony. The sooner we become an independent, democratic republic with a mature identity and Constitution the better.”

The Republic of New Zealand Party will dispense with any Head of State. An elected President will govern New Zealand. The three arms of government, the executive, the legislature and the judiciary will be separate, to provide a system of checks and balances.

Service personnel will swear allegiance to serve the citizens of New Zealand and their properly constituted government. Flags, decorations and honours will reflect our independent nationhood. Mr Hawkins said Defence policy would enhance ANZAC commitments with further recruitment, regular exercises and co-ordinated purchase from allies.

“A Republic of New Zealand Government would negotiate the establishment of an ANZAC Strike Wing, sharing the cost with Australia and providing protection for our defenceless country in a modern world.” The only security is strength, Mr Hawkins said ENDS

A wreath will be laid at the Auckland Cenotaph on behalf of the RONZP at the 11.00 am service, by Party Leader Kerry Bevin.