New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins has expressed his views on the monarchy ahead of attending King Charles III’s coronation in London. In an interview, Hipkins stated that he believes New Zealand should become a republic, but he has no immediate plans to pursue that goal.
Hipkins made it clear that he does not support the monarchy’s continued rule over New Zealand. However, he will still pledge allegiance to King Charles III at the coronation, as is customary for Commonwealth countries.
During his visit to the UK, Hipkins will meet with Charles and several other members of the royal family. However, he stated that he will not be discussing his views on the monarchy with them.
New Zealand is one of only 14 countries that still have the British monarch as their head of state. Despite this, Hipkins believes that the country should ultimately become an independent nation. However, as prime minister, he has no intention of pursuing secession at this time.
Hipkins’ comments come as the debate over the monarchy’s role in Commonwealth countries continues. Some argue that it is time for these countries to become fully independent and establish their own heads of state, while others believe that the monarchy continues to provide a valuable link between these countries and their shared history.
