Sydney: New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has said that the country will not take steps to become a republic following the demise of Queen Elizabeth. But it is hoped that the Pacific nation will eventually become one, not abandoning the process of becoming a republic.

"I've never sensed the urgency. There are so many challenges we face. This is a large, significant debate. Don't think it's one that would or should occur quickly," Ardern told reporters on Monday when asked whether the change in the British monarch will spark talks of republicanism in the country.

New Zealand is one of 15 countries, including Australia and Canada, that recognize the British monarch as their head of state. This method is carried out ritually. But there has been a debate for some time about whether the Pacific nation should become a republic, electing a citizen as head of state.

"I believe that's where New Zealand will go in time. I believe it will happen in my lifetime, but I don't see it as a short-term measure or something that's on the agenda anytime soon," Ardern said.

Ardern said New Zealand would hold a state memorial service and a one-off public holiday on September 26 following Queen Elizabeth's death. Ardern will travel to London on Wednesday to represent New Zealand with the Governor-General to attend the Queen's funeral.