Soft republicanism or constitution overhaul?: What could happen to New Zealand if we became a republic – Newshub

"I contend that republican reform can be designed for New Zealand without engaging with these fatter legislative models especially when the republican model is grounded in the reality of current arrangements and practice," Dr Knight wrote.

"Minimal change and much continuity obviates the need for extensive revision of constitutional rules and seeks to avoid the dangers of inadvertently upsetting the operation and practice of existing offices and institutions. "

This minimalist approach is also supported by the New Zealand Republic campaign.

NZ Republic chair Lewis Holden told AM we would follow similar parliamentary systems around the world where the Governor-General takes office and becomes the head of state - with the aim of keeping politicians away from the role.

The campaign's position is that while the transition to an independent head of state won't change the status of the Treaty, an additional clause clarifying this and stating that the Crown is the "Government and People of New Zealand" should be in any legislation establishing a republic; further protecting the Mori-Government relationship.

Te Tiriti o Waitangi is often cited as a constitutional issue for Aotearoa New Zealand because our treaty is entangled with the Crown.

Many experts have reassured the government obligations to compensate Mori under Te Tiriti o Waitangi wouldn't change, but there is currently no legal or constitutional certainty the Treaty will be safeguarded if New Zealand does become a republic.

Auckland University law Professor Janet McLean said some people believe replacing the Queen with a Kiwi won't actually decolonise New Zealand.

"There's a big question about whether you reimagine the Crown-Maori relationship in a more radical way or whether you just do something not as radical and carry on," Prof McLean said.

Mori opinion on a republic is divided.

Mori Crown Relations Te Arawhiti Minister Kelvin Davis said in a statement to Newshub his priority is that the Te Tiriti o Waitangi is upheld.

"It is not a priority for me to look into becoming a republic. If we continue to be governed as we are or become a republic, my priority is for Aotearoa to uphold Te Tiriti o Waitangi," Davis said.

"If changes to our country mean sacrificing Te Tiriti, then this is something I would not support."

See the article here:

Soft republicanism or constitution overhaul?: What could happen to New Zealand if we became a republic - Newshub