A republic with a unicameral, half-elected Parliament and a weak, ceremonial president would be a recipe for democratic disaster.

Prince William insisted "I wish I wasn't going" as he left NZ, but not before paying tribute to late mother Princess Diana's work with children.

The protocol on inspection of royal trouser pockets for rodents is not spelled out, but Prince William was unconcerned about it during his "date with a kiwi".

Any suggestions the royal family has lost their allure were cast aside by a crowd of thousands who greeted Prince William after he opened the new Supreme Court building today.

Excited bystanders climbed trees and claimed every vantage point to watch Prince William complete his first official duty in Wellington today.

Prince William's visit to Auckland's Eden Park gave him a few challenges yesterday as young rugby players put his ball skills to the test.

Chief Justice, Prime Minister, thank you both for your warm welcome.

Photos of Prince William's three-day visit to New Zealand.

At stake this coming year is the future happiness of a personable enough young man. And quite possibly, the future happiness of the monarchy.

A strong wind whips through scrub on Sydney's North Head next to a small brick workshop where Jim Frecklington is putting the final layers of varnish on a golden carriage that may one day carry Prince William to his wedding.