The flag referendum kicks off tomorrow but Tauranga officials remain divided over their choice of flag.
Tauranga City Council Mayor Stuart Crosby would be voting for the Silver Fern (black, white and blue) by Kyle Lockwood, because of the symbolic features it encompasses.
"The Southern Cross represents where we are, and the silver fern is internationally known and identifies us," Mr Crosby said.
However, he thought the referendum would not change the flag, and that New Zealand would vote for no change in the second referendum.
Western Bay of Plenty Mayor Ross Paterson would also be voting for one of Kyle Lockwood's designs, but was hoping for the Silver Fern (red, white and blue) to prevail.