Final vote on New Zealand flag

New Zealanders have begun voting in the second stage of a referendum on whether to change their national flag

CURRENT FLAG

Adopted in 1902. Seen by many people as outdated and too similar to flag of Australia

Union Jack: Symbol of colonial past that some New Zealanders want to leave behind

Southern Cross 

Distinctive constellation in Milky Way galaxy, visible from Southern Hemisphere

Background: Derived from British Blue Ensign flag

ALTERNATIVE FLAG: Silver Fern (Black, White and Blue)

Designed by Kyle Lockwood. Chosen from five designs in 2015 referendum

Fern 

Internationally recognised symbol of New Zealand. Fern fronds “represent diverse communities coming together

Southern Cross

Black: Widely regarded as national colour

Blue Represents sea and sky. Echoes colour of current flag

Postal ballot Voting closes on Mar 24, with preliminary result due later that day. Final result on Mar 30,
after all votes received in time have been processed

Sources: New Zealand government, wire agencies