135th Anniversary of the New Zealand Flag
135th Anniversary of the New Zealand Flag
Saturday 23rd October will be the 135th anniversary of the New Zealand Flag.
On that day in 1869 Governor Sir George Bowen issued a proclamation establishing an ensign for use on vessels belonging to the Government of New Zealand. The Blue Ensign, with the Southern Cross represented by four red stars, was soon used on land as well as at sea, and became widely recognised as the New Zealand flag. It was given legal protection as our national flag in 1902.
Only 14 countries have national flags that have been in continuous use for a longer period of time.
Our national flag is the symbol of the country and people of New Zealand. When we fly it we demonstrate the pride that we feel in our country.
The New Zealand Flag Institute calls upon all New Zealanders to proudly fly our national flag on Saturday 23rd October to mark this historic anniversary.
New Zealand Flag Institute
23rd September 2004