"God Defend New Zealand" is one of two national anthems of New Zealand, the other being "God Save the Queen". Legally they have equal status, but "God Defend New Zealand" is more commonly used, and is popularly referred to as "the national anthem". Originally written as a poem, it was set to music as part of a competition in 1876. Over the years its popularity increased, eventually being named the second national anthem in 1977. The anthem has English and Māori lyrics, with slightly different meanings. When performed in public, the usual practice is to sing both the Māori and English first verses.
Read more about God Defend New Zealand: History, Protocol, Lyrics
Famous quotes containing the words god, defend and/or zealand:
“Younger sisters are almost different beings from elder ones, but thank God it is quite and unaffectedly without repining or envy that I see my elder sister gad about and visit, etc.—when I rest at home.”
—Frances Burney (1752–1840)
“This is the people’s war. It is our war. We are the fighters! Fight it, then! Fight it with all that is in us. And may God defend the right.”
—Arthur Wimperis (1874–1953)
“Teasing is universal. Anthropologists have found the same fundamental patterns of teasing among New Zealand aborigine children and inner-city kids on the playgrounds of Philadelphia.”
—Lawrence Kutner (20th century)