God Defend New Zealand

God Defend New Zealand is one of the national anthems of New Zealand, together with God Save the Queen. Although they both have equal status, only God Defend New Zealand is used, and most New Zealanders would be unaware that the country has two national anthems.

History

The words for God Defend New Zealand were written as a poem in the 1870s by Thomas Bracken. A competition to compose music for the poem was held in 1876, with a prize of ten guineas. The winner of the competition was John Joseph Woods, who had composed the melody in a single sitting the evening after finding out about the competition.

Related Topics:
1870s - Thomas Bracken - 1876 - John Joseph Woods

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The song became increasingly popular during the 19th century and early 20th century, and in 1940, the New Zealand government bought the copyright and made it New Zealand's national hymn in time for the centennial celebrations. In 1976, a petition was presented to parliament asking for it to be made the national anthem, and with the permission of Queen Elizabeth II, it became the country's second national anthem on November 21, 1977.

Related Topics:
19th century - 20th century - 1940 - 1976 - Elizabeth II - November 21 - 1977

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An alternative official arrangement for massed singing by Maxwell Fernie was announced by the Minister of Internal Affairs on June 1, 1978.

Related Topics:
Maxwell Fernie - June 1 - 1978

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