There is a beautiful tradition in Auckland to fly the flags of other Nations on their respective National Days over the Harbour Bridge in Auckland. This makes the people who came from those countries who presently live in New Zealand feel proud that this country is recognising their native land and feel proud to be living in New Zealand. And it is also a way of New Zealanders to project a friendly face to the World from this corner.
However a debate is currently on as to whether the Maori Flag should be allowed to fly over the Bridge on Waitangi Day. The objection seems to be based on the fact that Maori is not a separate Nation. New Zealand which started as a Maori Nation has morphed into a multi-cultural modern nation.
May be this is a good time to rethink the idea of a new flag for New Zealand incorporating some Maori design and our National symbols of Silver Fern and Kiwi.That will be a way to honour both the Maori and the Pakeha who have written the history of this country by their toils and contributions. I am sure the new migrants to this country who have since become citizens will also welcome the change.
It is high time New Zealand developed its own identity based on its history of multi-cultural migration to this 'Paradise on Earth', starting from the Maoris and continuing with the present day influx from all over the world.
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