What is the title of New Zealand’s national anthem that begins “God of Nations at Thy feet”?

New Zealand’s national anthem that begins “God of Nations at Thy feet” is titled “God Defend New Zealand.”

Thomas Bracken wrote the English lyrics, and John Joseph Woods composed the music. The song was first performed publicly in 1876 and became a popular patriotic hymn before receiving official anthem status.

New Zealand adopted “God Defend New Zealand” as a national anthem in 1977, alongside “God Save the King.” Both have official status, although “God Defend New Zealand” is more commonly used at sporting and civic events.

The anthem is often performed bilingually, with Māori lyrics followed by English lyrics. The Māori version is not a direct word-for-word translation in every detail, but it expresses the same broad themes of protection, loyalty, and national unity.