Song of Hope

BY JOHN ANSELL

Ern showed the world the tiniest thing,

Bill sent man to the widest thing

— Once Ed knocked off the highest thing!

It’s what us Kiwis do.

We’ve set the mark since God knows when,

The big boys count us out, and then

We beat the odds, time and again,

And we’ll beat this thing too.

CHORUS:

This is the time to free New Zealand

     To write new songs for history,

     To chart new stars, to climb new mountains,

     All together, you and me!

We’ve faced down worse than germs before,

On shaky ground, through flames of war:

Once more on to the beach once more!

Cos when push comes to shove…

You’ll never lock us down for long.

You think we’re done? Here’s why you’re wrong:

The Kiwi spirit’s just too strong!

Can’t break those bonds of love.

CHORUS:

This is the time to free New Zealand,

     To rise above adversity,

     To chart new stars, to climb new mountains,

     All together, you and me!

When we’ve been lost or led astray

We’d make a vow that, come what may,

We’d make it back, that’s been the way

Wherever Kiwis roam.

As sure as daybreak follows night,

As long as ferns shine silver light

The spirit of the black and white

Will guide our people home.

CHORUS:

This is the time to free New Zealand

     To be the best that we can be,

     To chart new stars, to climb new mountains,

     All together, you and me!

It’s time to get back on the horse.

There’s been some changes on the course,

But love’s a most empowering force

And love’s no stranger here.

We’re up and running for the Cup,

The Kiwi stayer won’t give up.

Can we defeat a virus?

[Cheeky young girl] “Yup!”

You’ve run your race?

[ANZAC vet]: “No fear!”

CHORUS:

This is the time to free New Zealand,

     To write new songs for history,

     To chart new stars, to climb new mountains,

     All together, you and me!