New Zealand’s National Flag Referendum: The Future is Here

The Kiwis have chosen their preferred option to take to a referendum on changing New Zealand’s national flag in 2016.

The silver fern, set against a striking black-and-blue background, could replace Britain’s Union Jack in March next year. This new design triumphed over four other shortlisted options, receiving over 550,000 first-choice votes from the 1.5 million ballots cast. Prime Minister John Key has been at the forefront of this initiative, advocating for change by stating that the existing ensign represents a colonial relic and is often confused with Australia’s flag.