PM Ardern: New Zealand May Become A Republic, But Not Anytime Soon

New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern. (Wikimedia Commons/Nevada Halbert)

JAKARTA - Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said New Zealand would not actively take any action to become a republic in the near future after the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

However, PM Ardern said she believed New Zealand was finally getting there and becoming one.

"I never felt the urgency. There are so many challenges we face. This is a big and significant debate," PM Ardern told reporters, when asked if changing the King of England would spark talks of republicanism in the country.

"Don't think it will or should happen quickly," Ms Ardern said.

New Zealand is one of 15 territories where the King of England is head of state, including Australia and Canada, though its role is largely ceremonial.

However, there has been debate for some time about whether the Pacific nation should become a republic, with citizens as heads of state.

"I believe that's where New Zealand will go in time. I believe it may happen in my lifetime but I don't see it as a short term course of action or anything that is on the agenda in the near future," said PM Ardern.

New Zealand will mark Queen Elizabeth's passing with a state memorial service and a public holiday on September 26, Prime Minister Ardern said.

PM Ardern will represent New Zealand, alongside the Governor-General, at the Queen's funeral, and will depart for London on Wednesday.

Separately, the Queen's death has also reignited debate over the future of the monarchy across the Tasman Sea, in Australia.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who has previously voiced support for a republic, said his Labor government would not seek a referendum in his first term.