KEY POINTS:
A new poll suggests New Zealanders are still divided on the issue of whether to become a republic.
Findings from a Research New Zealand poll show 42 per cent think it would be a good idea to dump the Queen as head of state.
Forty-eight per cent of respondents do not support a review of the issue but 42 per cent say the country should consider becoming a republic.
Support for the monarchy is strongest in the 60-plus age group and lowest amongst those aged 15 to 39. Women (52 per cent) were also more supportive than men (44 per cent)
Respondents were also split on whether Prince Charles or Prince William should succeed the Queen. The poll found 45 per cent think Prince Charles should be the next monarch, despite his age and 43 per cent prefer Prince William.
Research New Zealand Director Emanuel Kalafatelis says the results show that the debate of the future of the Monarchy is finely balanced at present.
"However, with younger New Zealanders leaning towards a republic, the clear challenge for the monarchy will be to demonstrate its relevance to younger people.";
The poll involved 500 people aged 15 and over and was conducted by telephone between the 26 November and 3 December. The maximum margin of error is +/- 4.6 per cent.
Australia is debating becoming a republic and a referendum on the issue is proposed for 2010.
Respondents were asked: Australians are considering becoming a republic, which means the Queen of England will no longer be their Head of State. Do you believe New Zealand should also consider this?
If the Queen does remain our Head of State should she be succeeded by Prince Charles or Prince William?
- Newstalk ZB
