Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has predicted that the country will become a republic within her lifetime. In her upcoming memoir, A Different Kind of Power, serialised in The Times, Ardern stated that while the issue is not currently a top priority, many New Zealanders believe it should be in the country's future.
Ardern's Views on the Monarchy
Ardern, 45, served as Prime Minister from 2017 to January 2023, making her the youngest leader in over 150 years when elected. During her tenure, she met both Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III. Despite reportedly having good relations with them, she remains convinced that New Zealand will eventually sever ties with the monarchy.
In her memoir, Ardern said: "It's not top of the agenda for New Zealand because there are so many other really important things going on. But if you ask the question, many would say it's something that should be in our future. It'll take time. It's a complex picture because of the Crown's relationship with indigenous New Zealanders."
Constitutional Context
New Zealand is a constitutional monarchy, with King Charles III serving as head of state—a largely ceremonial role. The British monarch has been head of state since 1840 under Queen Victoria. King Charles has visited New Zealand multiple times as Prince of Wales.
Ardern's comments come amid ongoing debates in other Commonwealth realms, such as Australia and Canada, about transitioning to republics. However, she acknowledged that the process in New Zealand would be complex, particularly due to the Treaty of Waitangi relationship between the Crown and Māori.
