While many country’s national anthems or national songs are about their nation, some also mention God such as ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ or ‘God Save the Queen’. There is one country however where the national anthem is a powerful prayer to God. The New Zealand national anthem is five verses of pure petition and supplication before God. It is often first sung in the native language of Maoritanga followed by the English version.
Lines that stand out and that ring true for the nation of New Zealand are:
- God defend our free land.
- From dissension, envy, hate,
And corruption guard our state, - Peace, not war, shall be our boast,
- Give us plenty, give us peace,
- From dishonour and from shame,
Guard our country’s spotless name,
The lines above are interesting because New Zealand is often considered in the top 3 least corrupt nations on Earth and the country has never been attacked in war since the national anthem was created.
Here is the National Anthem complimented with stunning images of the country. Below the video are the full five verses of the national anthem.
God of Nations at Thy feet,
In the bonds of love we meet,
Hear our voices, we entreat,
God defend our free land.
Guard Pacific’s triple star
From the shafts of strife and war,
Make her praises heard afar,
God defend New Zealand.
Men of every creed and race,
Gather here before Thy face,
Asking Thee to bless this place,
God defend our free land.
From dissension, envy, hate,
And corruption guard our state,
Make our country good and great,
God defend New Zealand.
Peace, not war, shall be our boast,
But, should foes assail our coast,
Make us then a mighty host,
God defend our free land.
Lord of battles in Thy might,
Put our enemies to flight,
Let our cause be just and right,
God defend New Zealand.
Let our love for Thee increase,
May Thy blessings never cease,
Give us plenty, give us peace,
God defend our free land.
From dishonour and from shame,
Guard our country’s spotless name,
Crown her with immortal fame,
God defend New Zealand.
May our mountains ever be
Freedom’s ramparts on the sea,
Make us faithful unto Thee,
God defend our free land.
Guide her in the nations’ van,
Preaching love and truth to man,
Working out Thy glorious plan,
God defend New Zealand.
