Most New Zealanders favour ditching the monarchy - survey

FAMILY OUTING: The Queen, accompanied by Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, and Prince Charles, right, attend the Braemar Royal Highland Gathering. PHOTO/AP

New Zealand is drifting closer to a republic according to new research which claims most Kiwis now want to ditch the monarchy.

A poll commissioned by NZ Republic Inc talked to more than 1000 people aged over 18 in August.

It says it found 59 per cent were in favour of having a New Zealand head of state, while 34 per cent want to stick with the Queen.

Just over two years ago only 44 per cent were looking for a change.

New Zealand Republic chairman Savage says the flag debate, the visit of Prince Charles, Brexit, and the Queen's 90th jubilee have combined to focus attention on the question.

But Dr Sean Palmer of Monarchy New Zealand is laughing off the sea change, pointing out that in the figures, people who favour a president appointed by Parliament have been pooled with those who want a directly-elected president "despite the fact that those two groups may not see eye-to- eye on anything."

"They lump them together and declare a great victory," Palmer said.

The question was first asked in March 2014 and showed support starting at 44 per cent. By April 2015 it was up to 47 per cent.
POLL ASKED:
What is your preference for New Zealand's next head of state?
- British monarch 34%
- New Zealand head of State, parliamentary elected 15%
- New Zealand head of State, directly elected 44%
- Unsure/don't know 7%