Support for flag refresh
The Editorial calling for a new flag (“Run this up the flagpole”, January 4) was spot on. The silver fern is an internationally recognised symbol of this country, and not only on the sporting field.
However, New Zealanders are also known internationally as Kiwis and a stylised kiwi (black on a white background) would make an equally acceptable flag. The ideal time for the public to consider this proposal would be a binding referendum in this year’s election.
Jerome O’Malley
(Masterton)
It is good to see the cry for a new Aotearoa flag has not abated. The 2016 referendum was a sad commentary on our partisan and adversarial political system, but also was hampered by the lack of a truly outstanding design.
Efforts must continue to find a flag that unites this country, its indigenous people, early settlers and new arrivals.
The present flag has certainly served its time after hearing English rugby fans’ derisive calls.
Perhaps a leading citizen outside mainstream politics could be found to take on this initiative. My only caveat would be that black is not a suitable colour to dominate a national flag.
Pieter van Dongen
(Ōhaupō)
I agree it’s time to change our flag to a fully Kiwi version. The most important aspect of this is to have a good process. First, decide to
