It’s time to decide. Final flag referendum starts in 1 week

The Flag Consideration Panel reminded Kiwis today that the final referendum to determine New Zealand’s flag starts in one week, on Thursday 3 March.

Flag Consideration Panel chair, Professor John Burrows, said history would be made when eligible voters make their choice and determine which flag New Zealand flies for its future.

“We have the unique opportunity to consider all the perspectives before making our own personal choice and I encourage New Zealanders to exercise their vote in this historic decision.

Before making your decision in the final binding referendum, think carefully about our identity; who we are as a nation, what we represent to each other as well as the world around us, and the legacy we will be leaving not just this generation, but others to come.

This is a unique opportunity for New Zealanders and I encourage you to look at all the resources we’ve provided to help with your decision; including an informative flag facts e-book that has just been published by a member of the Panel; historian, Malcolm Mulholland.

Thousands of articles have been written by journalists and commentators all over the world, so take the time to read some of the many news items and public comments summarised in the snapshot provided on www.flag.govt.nz,” said Professor Burrows.

Key Dates

Thu 3 Mar -Thu 24 Mar
Final postal referendum – voters asked, What is your choice for the New Zealand flag?

Voting papers start being delivered to enrolled electors on Thursday 3 March and all should receive by Friday 11 March. Any enrolled person who does not receive voting papers by then can request replacement via www.elections.org.nz or 0800 36 76 56

Thu 24 Mar (7pm)
Voting closes

Thu 24 Mar (8.30pm target time)
Preliminary result announced by Electoral Commission
www.electionresults.govt.nz, www.elections.org.nz

Wed 30 Mar(5pm target time)
Official result announced by Electoral Commission

www.electionresults.govt.nz, www.elections.org.nz

Note: 12pm 30.3.16 is the last point for voting papers to be received for inclusion in the count (they must be postmarked no later than 23 March if from overseas)

ENDS

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