THE NEW ZEALAND ANTHEM.

Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume 3, Issue 239, 1 November 1878, Page 2

THE NEW ZEALAND ANTHEM.

For the benefit of our readers-' we give herewith the words of this originalanthem, as written by Mr T. Bracken, and set to music by Mr J. J. Woods. 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 he just and right, God defend New Zealand. Let onr 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.