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New Zealand Flag Institute |
EIGHT REASONS TO FLY THE NEW
ZEALAND FLAG
1. Flags are
meant to be flown A flag is meant to be
seen flying. However New Zealander’s are not naturally demonstrative. We do
not habitually decorate our homes and workplaces. Unfortunately therefore the
flag is comparatively infrequently flown. This conservatism does not however
mean that we are lacking in patriotism; we are quietly proud of our country,
and the flag is flown or displayed surprisingly often by Kiwi’s traveling
abroad. We need to embrace the culture of flying our flag in New Zealand. 2. The flag is recognised as ours The Southern Cross is one
of the three major symbols of New Zealand. It was the first. The kiwi and
silver fern did not become national symbols until close to the end of the
nineteenth century. The kiwi is not a suitable symbol for a flag, and the
silver fern is associated with sporting achievement. Only the Southern Cross
has represented New Zealand since the 1860’s. Our flag with its elegant
design of blue field, colourful canton (the Union Jack), and distinctive
stars is widely recognised internationally. 3. Branding New Zealand The New Zealand flag is
often used in business advertising. It is frequently seen in commercial
advertising, both in this country and overseas. A small flag is to be found
on the packaging of many exports. The flag is associated with our “clean,
green image”. It has been seen in connection with sporting events, cultural
exchanges, and diplomatic occasions for generations. It is New Zealand. |