New Zealand got the world’s attention after Lord of the Rings and The Hobit and till this day most people associate it with these two films. But this country is much more than that – land of great nature, Manuka honey, sheep, wine and happy people. In terms of history, New Zealand is a young country; the first people to set foot there were Polynesian ancestors of the Māori (a term that didn't exist until the Europeans arrived), between 1200 and 1300 AD. The Europeans arrived in 1642 and by 1830, New Zealand was already a British colony. During this time, the country was developing its national symbols. So New Zealand flag we know today wasn't always the same.
History of the New Zealand Flag
New Zealand's national flag was officially approved in 1902, but before that there were other versions of it. Its origins go back to 1865 when the British Government demanded ships from the colonies should use the Blue Ensign with the seal or badge of the colony on it. At that time New Zealand didn’t have a recognised badge, so its vessels used the Blue Ensign without any markings until charged by the British Government.
Mr. G Eliott’s (Secretary of the General Post Office) suggestion of the four stars of the Southern Cross as New Zealand's badge was rejected. Instead of the stars, the words ‘New Zealand’ was added to the Blue Ensign (this was later shortened to ‘NZ’ in red letters with white borders). In 1869, Governor Sir George Bowen demanded that the Southern Cross should replace the ‘NZ’ on the Blue Ensign. The Southern Cross was formed by four five-pointed red stars with white borders (as a correspondence to the colours of the Union Jack). This officially became the official New Zealand flag.
Similar Patterns With Australia's Flag
Both New Zealand and Australia flags have the Southern Cross constellation on their flags. The Australian flag's six stars are white and have more points; the flag of New Zealand has four stars that mark the points of the compass. The Australian flag has one larger (sixth) star right below the Union Jack, which represents the federation of the colonies as of January 1, 1901.
New Zealand Flag Markings
The stars represent the Southern Cross constellation, indicating New Zealand's location in the South Pacific Ocean. The Union Jack is in the top left-hand corner which symbolises New Zealand’s historical foundations as a former British colony and dominion.
Why Get This Flag?
New Zealand Themed Party
Let's start with the fun part first. If you're throwing a New Zealand-themed party, obviously, you must buy a New Zealand flag. It doesn't matter where you are in the world, don't forget the flag. It can work as decor, but also as a symbol for the country. Besides that, you can incorporate other things such as Kiwi bird toys, kiwi the actual fruit as a symbol, NZ beers, sheep toys, etc.).
For Collectors
If you're collecting flags, or know someone with a passion for flags, then don’t forget the NZ flag. Choose a small flag you can place on a plastic staff on your desk or shelf, or for passionate collectors, choose a larger model, made of an actual fabric (instead of paper or plastic), with properly printed colours.
For Supporting Your National Theme
It can be for any sport, but the most current thing going on now is the World Cup in Qatar. If you flew there to support the national football team, chances are you took a flag with you. What's a better place to spread and wave the national flag and cheer for the guys on the field, trying to score?
As a Gift
A flag can be a great gift as well. You can choose to give the national flag to a friend who celebrates their birthday (especially if they're part of the military or are collections). You can also give the flag to international friends; this usually happens at sports events, but it's not a rule you can choose this gift on other occasions.
Historical Events
For New Zealand national holidays, it's more than appropriate to have or give the national flag. If you have just moved into a new home and feel like adding a little patriotism to your home on the country's big days, feel free to get yourself a flag. You can place it on your porch, patio or indoors. If you aren't from NZ but have friends who are, you can give them their national flag for their national holidays, especially if they're far away from home.
For Graduation Parties
If there's a New Zealand student in your school or college, it would be a nice touch to get the flag and place it next to your national flag. Graduation parties are a big event, so it's important to make everyone feel included and seen.
For Your Adventures
Climbing mountains is one of the most thrilling adventures. If you're one of those people who are preparing to get to the peaks of some of the highest mountains in the world, you can't start your adventure without two things - proper gear and a flag. Don't forget to pack the NZ flag in your backpack and spread it on top of the world.
