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New Zealand Flag
SKU: NZL35P
New Zealand’s flag dates from 1865, when the British Government ordered that all colonial vessels fly the Blue Ensign, with the seal or badge of their local Colony. New Zealand didn’t have a badge, so continued to fly a plain Blue Ensign. After being officially reprimanded, the Secretary of the General Post Office suggested that four stars of the Southern Cross become New Zealand's badge. His choice was overruled by Britain who instead chose the words "New Zealand," - later shortened to "NZ" in red letters with white borders. Governor Sir George Bowen in 1869 directed that the Southern Cross replace "NZ" on the Ensign. The flag’s stars represent the Southern Cross constellation which is only visible in the Southern Hemisphere as is New Zealand's location in the South Pacific. The Union Jack together with the matching red, royal blue and white stars recognises New Zealand’s heritage as a former British Colony and Dominion. New Zealand shares the Southern Cross design with nearby Australia indicating the importance of the constellation in the hemisphere. The two flags differ significantly in that New Zealand’s flag bears only four stars each marking the points of the compass. The New Zealand flag was officially recognized on 12 June 1902 just in time to accompany its troops to war in South Africa. The flag has seen two World Wars, lays claim to part of Antarctica, has seen numerous sports victories, and was found in the rubble of the September 11th World Trade Center towers in New York. New Zealand’s Flag is believed to have accompanied the Apollo 11 astronauts on their historic 1969 moonwalk. Like recent debates in Canada and Australia, New Zealanders are discussing whether their flag should be less British and reflect more of their own cultures. This will continue to be a lively debate. Flag Measures 36 in x 60 in and is 100% polyester with grommets for easy flying.
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