Our sports people wear the silver fern and it does look well on the black background of the uniform which so many teams wear.
It is purposeful for those sportsmen and women.
New Zealanders all around the world, whatever they are doing, are known as Kiwis.
That does tell us something.
The Australians, for example, often refer to some merchandise from NZ as kiwi this or that.
Even if the vote coming up on the change of flag rejects the idea of change, the subject is bound to be brought up again sooner or later.
It makes sense to have our emblem, the kiwi, placed on the flag below the Union Jack, facing the lower star.
It is realistic, valid and exclusive, fits well with the kiwi on the uniforms of our servicemen and women and also is seen on RNZAF aircraft.
Those service people know that wherever they go overseas there will be instant recognition.
Our reputation throughout the world, as the kind of people we are, is therefore visible immediately – these are Kiwis.
The emblem of the kiwi and with our people overseas referred to as Kiwis tends to satisfy any criteria.
The flag as depicted assuredly represents our country absolutely. It is where kiwis come from.
Can we harness support for this flag and put the discussion to bed forever? It could be a much less expensive option.
