The Canton Compass
Flag of New Zealand

Flag of New Zealand

Flag NameFlag of New Zealand
Country NameNew Zealand
ISO 3166-1 alpha-2NZ
Date Adopted1902-03-24
Adoption Statusofficial
Flag Typenational
Aspect Ratio1:2
Primary ColorsBlue, Red, White
Symbolism DescriptionThe Union Jack in the canton signifies New Zealand's historical ties to the United Kingdom and its status as a Commonwealth realm. The blue background represents the sea and the sky. The four red stars with white fimbriation represent the Southern Cross constellation, which is prominent in the Southern Hemisphere and symbolizes New Zealand's location.
Symbolism Categorieshistory
DesignerAlbert Hastings Markham (design based on earlier colonial flags)
Canton DetailsThe canton features the Union Jack, symbolizing New Zealand's heritage as a British colony and its continued membership in the Commonwealth.
Related FlagsAustralian National Flag, Fijian National Flag, Tuvaluan National Flag
Legal DescriptionThe flag is defined by the Flags, Emblems, and Names Protection Act 1981.

Description

The national flag of New Zealand is a blue ensign with the Union Jack in the canton and four red stars with white fimbriation representing the Southern Cross constellation on the fly.

Related Flags