5 designs that could replace the New Zealand flag
The New Zealand flag is set to get a redesign after the country's government kicked off the Flag Consideration Project, which for the first time will allow New Zealanders to have a say in the design of nation's emblem.
The project launches today (13 May) and some 600 designs have already been submitted by members of the public.
Citizens have until 16 July to upload their designs, after which a panel of 12 New Zealanders from all walks of life, age and experience will select the winning design.
The new design itself presents quite a challenge. The flag has to separate its identity from Australia and choose whether or not to graphically include its history in the British Commonwealth.
Take a look at some of the designs already submitted below.
Southern Cross designed by Kallum Best from Northland
"I feel it discusses the unity of both British monarchy and Maori rule," said Best. "Together it creates a well balanced icon that can distinctly resemble the Kiwi ideology, the use of colours are limited to black and white, residual to that of our pop culture icon the silver fern."
Great View designed by James Hadley from Wellington
"When anyone thinks of New Zealand, especially tourists, they think of the great scenery," explained Hadley. "This flag represents a road, heading off to the mountains, passing NZ icons and up to view the the southern cross. The Union Jack also stays in the top left corner. This flag design uses the current flag colours."
Simple, bold, optimistic designed by: Modification of Kyle Lockwood design from Canterbury suggested by Hamish Fra
Air Force Kiwi Roundel designed by Air Force from Waikato suggested by Dave Doggart from Waikato
"The air force roundel is recognisable by most who view it as being symbolic of New Zealand," said Doggart. "The Kiwi is our National bird, and not synonymous with sport as is the silver fern. It's simple, clean and easily viewable on both sides."