ERROL PARKER | Editor-at-large | Contact
In a recent visit to Canberra, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese presented a gift to his Kiwi counterpart Chrus Haepkuns – a special edition of Luude’s drum and bass remix of New Zealand’s national anthem, “God Defend New Zealand.”
The move has been met with mixed reactions, with many Kiwis taking to social media to voice their opinions on the gift. Some have called it “disrespectful,” while others have dubbed it “the greatest thing to ever happen to our national anthem.”
Luude, a well-known producer in the Australian music scene, was commissioned by PM Albo to create the special remix as a symbol of the close relationship between the two countries.
“We wanted to show our Kiwi friends just how much we appreciate them and what better way to do that than with a banging new take on their national anthem?” Albo said in a statement.
However, the gift has not been well received by everyone. The All Blacks has expressed their disappointment, with a spokesperson stating, “The national anthem holds a special place in the hearts of Kiwis and to see it turned into a drum and bass track is simply inappropriate.”
Meanwhile, Kiwi DJ and producer P-Money took to Twitter to voice his support for the remix.
“Luude has absolutely killed it with this one. It’s about time our national anthem got a fresh update and what better way to do it than with a bit of DnB.”
PM Albo, who is known for his love of music and lighthearted approach to politics, remains unphased by the criticism.
“I think this remix is a fantastic representation of the close relationship between our two countries and the special bond we share. It’s a gift from all of us Aussies to our Kiwi friends and I hope they love it as much as I do,” he said.
Despite the controversy, the remix has already become a viral hit on social media, with many calling for it to become the official new national anthem of New Zealand.
In response, Chrus the New Zealand PM was quoted as saying, “While we appreciate the sentiment behind this gift, I think it’s best we stick with the original anthem. God Defend New Zealand will always hold a special place in our hearts and we wouldn’t want to do anything to tarnish that.”
More to come.
