John Keys NZ Flag Debate Stuff

TV News release 10th August 2013

Key suggests flag change referendum

As far back as 2010 John Key said he favoured a silver fern flag but had no plans to change the current flag.

Prime Minister John Key says he favours a silver fern for New Zealand’s flag.

“I actually think it looks magnificent on a flag pole … The simplicity works well for branding New Zealand, like a monochrome version of the maple leaf for Canada or Japan’s rising sun,” he said.

The silver fern, already used by sports teams and recognised worldwide, would bring the country together, he said.

But the Government had no plans to change the flag at this time, he said.

Times seen to have changed, as have plans. Reported from the National party conference:

John Keys says referendum on changing the NZ Ensign could run alongside next year’s election

It’s about time someone showed some leadership on replacing our outdated and out-used official flag. The old flag that gets confused with Australia’s is still used for official buildings and events but the black silver fern Sporting flag is much more widely used when people can choose.