The
stars are red for two reasons; red to represent mana, as on Maori
flags, and red with white edges and blue background to echo the
colouring of the Union Jack.
The colours symbolize that our country
has both Maori and British heritage, while the four stars (north, south,
east and west) acknowledge New Zealanders who have come from all over
the world.
The
silver fern, representing New Zealand's unique flora, also symbolizes
people in their communities, with a theme of Unity With Diversity. It
has a ribbon of silver running through it symbolizing dialogue that is
the road to peace and progress.
It
is proposed that the present Flag (New Zealand Blue Ensign) remain an
official national flag, especially for ANZAC day and other military
commemorations. (A similar compromise is used by Canada).
The flag has been designed with several layers of meaning that speak of different aspects of our country. These are detailed on the next page. Some special-purpose flags are also suggested.
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