Commonwealth Games: April 4th to 15th
The majority of commonwealth nations are republics

Our message for the games is simple. Becoming a republic and having our own Head of State does not require a change to Commonwealth membership. The majority of member states are already republics and six have their own Monarchy (15 have someone else's).

As you watch the Games over the next fortnight, as you talk about it with family, friends and co-workers then take the time to point out what for us is obvious to all of us but what for many is not that clear. Here are some basic facts:
• There are 53 nations in all. 32 are republics.
• Not all of members states (Mozambique and Rwanda) were former British colonies.
• 71 nations and territories compete in the Games.
• Queen Elizabeth is the 'Head of the Commonwealth' but that doesn't mean she is the Head of State of every nation in it.
• The majority are already republics and every republic is different.
• Other than Britain, five have their own hereditary Head of State - Brunei Darussalam, Lesotho, Malaysia, Swaziland and Tonga.
• The 'Head of Commonwealth' role is not hereditary and may simply disappear when she passes on.
• NZ will carry on being a member of the Commonwealth when we become a republic and we will carry on doing well at the Games.
Keep an eye on social media updates and help spread the word as the Games begin....