THE NEW ZEALAND SELF-RELIANT SONG.

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume V, Issue 194, 18 August 1870, Page 2

THE NEW ZEALAND SELF-RELIANT SONG.

o [Written on the withdrawal of Imperial troops.] Wben on New Zealand's hostile land Bold Cook's undaunted crew first trod, Heralds of bliss inspired that band With mandate from tlie throne of God — "Possess Zealandia : let its soil ever be A home for the brave, a home for the free." A century's chequered course has run 'Midst battles' strife, and hopes and fears — But courage ! thy greatness has begun, A silvery rift in the cloud appears. liejoice, Zealandia : let thy soil ever be A home for the brave, a home for the free. And hark ! there, conies from fatherland, When for warlike aid its sons apply, The rulers' stern, yet just, demand — " In future on thy strength rely.'' Arise, Zealandia : let thy soil ever be A home for the brave, a home for the free. " In infancy thou hadst our care, Thy vigorous growth we've long admired; But self-made burdens thou must bear — ■ By thy ancestors' deeds be now inspired." Advance, Zealandia : let thy soil ever be A home for the brave, a home for tbe free. Let thy dictum be accepted by the nation — Self-reliance in future be our guide, And our banner, the " Cross Constellation" — In the God of our fathers confide. Be the strongest of the branches that have spread From the stem of the aged parent tree ; Let tbe halo of thy glory be shed On all lands that desire to be free. Take thy place in their van, South Britannia, Let thy shore be the haunt of the oppres't ; Thy mission is great, young Zealandia — May thy destiny for ever be blest. C. W. Invercargill, July, 1870.