Why you could be looking at New Zealand’s new flag
More than 10,000 suggestions were submitted in the quest for a new design for New Zealand’s flag, with a selected Flag Consideration Panel announcing 40 flag designs had made a list of prospects which they will then whittle down to 4 designs for registered voters to rank in a referendum later this year.
Who was on the selected Flag Consideration Panel
A number of cultural (including tikanga), vexillology (the study of flags), art and design experts were invited to review the flags, to ensure the designs are workable and there are no known impediments. Detailed due diligence will now be completed on these designs, including intellectual property checks. The Panel members included:
• Prof John Burrows (Chair), ONZM, QC
• Nicky Bell
• Peter Chin, CNZM
• Julie Christie, ONZM
• Rod Drury
• Kate De Goldi (Deputy Chair)
• Beatrice Faumuina, ONZM
• Lt Gen (Rtd) Rhys Jones, CNZM
• Stephen Jones
• Sir Brian Lochore, ONZ, KNZM, OBE
• Malcolm Mulholland
• Hana O’Regan
How to vote in the referendum for NZ’s flag
New Zealand residents must be enrolled to vote to ensure you have a chance to express your preference.
The first binding referendum will be held later this year when voters select their preferred flag design from the 4 alternatives chosen by the Panel.
In March 2016, a referendum will be held when New Zealander’s will make history by voting between the current flag and the chosen alternative.
The 40 flags on the long list
The flag designs had to be distinctive, simple and represent the essence of New Zealand – and celebrate New Zealand as a progressive, inclusive nation that is connected to its environment, and has a sense of its past and a vision for its future. It is important that the flag carries sufficient dignity to be appropriate for all situations in which New Zealanders might be represented.
It should speak to all Kiwis
To see all 40 designs on the long list, click here