New Zealanders welcome fifth option to flag referendum
Despite the referendum in March 2016, an opinion poll showed 69 percent of people still want to keep the current flag. Photo: Twitter/CalebCarnie
A social media campaign in New Zealand has pressured the government to add an extra flag design to the current four options that could potentially be the country’s new flag in a referendum set for next year.
According to AFP, 50,000 people signed a petition calling for the so-called “Red Peak” design to be included in the the ballot.
This comes after a lack lustre public response to the four option presented by the government .
The news report added that the Red Peak consists of red, black and blue triangles with a white chevron.
Three of the other designs include a silver fern leaf, the informal national emblem which Prime Minister John Key has said he wants on the flag.
The final one depicts a spiralling black-and-white koru, or fern frond, a traditional Maori symbol of new life and creation.
Following Wednesday’s decision to add the fifth option, local netizens responded positively.
According to AFP, Kiwis will pick their favourite among the five options in a referendum to be held between November 20 and December 11.
The winning design will then go head-to-head against the existing flag in a second vote in March.
An opinion poll this week showed 69 percent of people want to keep the current flag.
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