Mumbler wants all to learn footie version of anthem

A self professed mumbler reckons all should learn the footie version of the New Zealand anthem. Seems the kids in our schools have been taught two anthems of late. Mr Mumbler has taken it upon himself to promote the second version by writing to MPs.


For me (and a lot of others - see Stuff quiz today) there is and only will ever be one version of the New Zealand Anthem. It starts "God of Nations at Thy feet," and is totally in English. I totally cringe when alternatives are offered or tacked onto the New Zealand Anthem at formal ceremonies. Like the haka, the only place a dual anthem should be performed is on the footy paddock.

For those that pretend not knowing, the full anthem in English is below.

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.

One anthem, in English, for all, not some footie ditty. Should be mandatory for citizenship. Learn the words mumbler.

God forbid, what next? Saluting the separatists red and black rag?