"The Republican Movement mourns the passing last night of New Zealand's first Maori Archbishop and Governor-General, Sir Paul Reeves" said Lewis Holden, chair of the Republican Movement.

"Sir Paul was a great leader in the office of Governor-General from 1985 - 1990, and supporter of a New Zealand republic. The Republican Movement acknowledges this leadership and mourns the loss of a great New Zealander" concluded Mr Holden.

ENDS