Jacinda Ardern says New Zealand will become a republic ‘in my lifetime’

Jacinda Ardern has suggested New Zealand will become a republic – but not in the near future.

The Prime Minister was quizzed on whether her country would make a shift away from the monarchy in the wake of the Queen’s death.

Asked why she has said she believes the move will happen in her lifetime, she told the BBC’s Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg: ‘I think even the Queen herself has observed and acknowledged the evolution over time in our relationships.

‘My observation is that there will continue to be an evolution in our relationship. I don’t believe it will be quick or soon, but over the course of my lifetime.’

King Charles will become responsible for appointing a Governor-General for New Zealand, which she does on the advice of the country’s Prime Minister.

Republicans in Kiwi society argue that the country will not be able to step out of the shadows of its colonialist past and become truly independent nation until it becomes a republic.

Other former colonies in the Commonwealth, including Barbados, have cut ties with the monarchy in recent years.

Ms Ardern was pressed by Laura Kuenssberg on how and when New Zealand may do the same.

She responded: ‘We have complex arrangements, the Treaty of Waitangi – a very important founding document for Aotearoa, New Zealand, signed between Maori and the Crown.

‘This is why it’s not a process I have any intent of instigating, but if and when it does occur, it will take time, and it will need to be very carefully worked through.’

New Zealand will mark the death of the Queen with a public holiday on Monday, September 26.

The nation will also hold a state memorial service on the same day in the capital, Wellington.

When questioned on the transition from Queen to King, Ms Ardern said today it would not be ‘jarring’ for New Zealand.

‘He shares many passions and interests that New Zealanders do,’ she said.

‘And I think that means that that relationship already exists. It’s a transition, but it’s not a jarring transition for New Zealand.’

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