Republic campaigners still positive after royal visit

"Campaigners for a New Zealand Head of State are still feeling positive after ten days of royal events" says NZ Republic Chair, Savage. "Our polling before the visit showed increased support for a kiwi head of state. We have a long term goal for improving democracy in New Zealand and this royal visit was an important step toward realising that vision."

"Nothing gets Kiwis talking about the pros and cons of an overseas Head of State more than a royal visit, and it was rewarding to hear so many people joining in the debate in the news media, on talk-back, in letters to the editor, via online forums and amongst their family and friends."

"As a nation we have to talk about this issue and make up our own minds. As a group we are confident that once people hear about our plans for practical reform using a two stage referendum process they will see the sense in changing to a democratically selected head of state."

"It was Kate's first ever trip to New Zealand and thousands of people lined up to catch a glimpse of her. To us that is just part of life in New Zealand. We expect such visits to still occur even after we change to having our own head of state. Royal watchers will still be able to enjoy the excitment of seeing two world famous Royals."

"We are simply campaigning so that people with the mana of Sir Jerry Mateparae or Dame Silvia Cartwright can become our actual head of state. The Governor-General is already doing almost everything a head of state does. We would like to see the British head of state and a Kiwi head of state standing side by side as equals. Two representatives of two sovereign nations."

"People make the mistake of thinking we are anti-British just because we no longer see sense in using Britain's head of state. Wanting a democratic nomination and selection process and wanting a New Zealander to be New Zealand's head of state is not anti-British. It is simply about looking out for the best interests of all Kiwis regardless of where their family comes from. After all, 'fair play' is a very British value."

"The visit is over, but we will just carry on spreading the word that reform is needed".

Ends

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