Prince recalls nations' mutual ties

Prince William mingling with wellwishers on a walkabout in Wellington yesterday. Photo / Getty Images

Prince William has waxed lyrical about his fondness for New Zealand, but skirted away from the issue of republicanism in his speech at the opening of the new Supreme Court building.

It was Prince William's first speech on behalf of the Queen and he spoke of his delight at being able to open the building housing the judicial arm after she had opened the Beehive in 1977.

He was met by a banner held by a small group of protesters outside pronouncing it was time for a republic.

Inside, Prince William described the establishment of the Supreme Court as "another milestone in New Zealand unique constitutional journey".

He emphasised the closely shared values of New Zealand and Britain, noting New Zealand's own values were deeply rooted in the heritage and constitutional history of England.

However, he saw New Zealand as a young, entrepreneurial and forward-looking nation which "believes passionately in itself".

He said he was honoured to be given a korowai - a cloak provided by Te Papa - to wear, saying New Zealand's history also had the unique dimension of its Maori history and the Treaty of Waitangi.

He said his visit would allow him to learn more about the values of New Zealand. However, he already had fond memories from his last visit in 2005.

"I learned very quickly just how distinctive, refreshing and confident this great nation is."

He ended with just a touch of the poetic, noting that the interior of the building felt much like being inside the cone of the kauri.

"I understand when the kauri cone matures, its winged seeds are dispersed by the wind. In the same way, let this court dispense justice to all parts of the nation."

Prime Minister John Key did not broach the issue of republicanism in his own speech, choosing to focus on the role of the Supreme Court.

Outside the ceremony, he said he did not support becoming a republic and did not believe there was a strong mood for change, although he believed it was inevitable eventually.

He did not believe the royal family was scared of the debate to be had about republicanism.

"I don't think that would be as if it's some sort of shocking revelation to him. Obviously there's discussion about republicanism around the world in places that currently still have constitutional monarchy like New Zealand.

"That's something that the Queen herself has said to me that she recognises there's a debate in and that's a matter ... for New Zealand."

While Prince William enjoyed a still, sunny day in Wellington aftera week of wintry weather, some morning fog disrupted the plans of many.

The delays to commercial flights led to an unlikely alliance of people trying to get to the opening booking a charter flight instead.

Some British High Commission staff, a few of Prince William's private secretaries and some British journalists ended up in the chartered plane with High Court judges trying to get to the opening and Green MP Keith Locke - who hoped to be there to join the pro-Republican protest.

Despite their efforts, they arrived too late.