Prefer flag for all residents

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

In raising the issue of the Tino Rangitiratanga flag outside council, I view that with the same distaste many have for the so-called Rebel Flag of the former Confederation of Southern States of America.

The flag has unfortunate connotations, in particular as a symbol of seeking separate sovereignty.

I would much prefer a district flag — symbolising our area and its aspirations, a flag that represents me and all other residents — not the flag of a particular group or point of view.

When, many years in the future the various peoples of the world have mingled and married, who then will be pakeha or Maori?

I see myself as a member of humanity — not an Anglo-Saxon person, a protestant or catholic, not a member of a tribe, family or ethnic grouping.

I was brought to these shores when I was seven — have lived as a Kiwi for over 60 years, worked and paid my taxes, and tried to rub along in peace with my fellow humans.

It is with deep sadness I find I am still considered tauiwi — a visitor and stranger in my chosen home.

I am distinctly uncomfortable with the direction of recent developments, locally with our council not giving recognition to the wider public view and paying lip service to consultation.

It is with great reluctance I comment on what seems to be a drive to separatism — to according special treatment on the grounds of race rather than simple need.

There are historical wrongs — so let us right them together as best we may; together let us lift up those in need. There are issues that have been around for far too long — not just for Maori, but for other disadvantaged people.

But let us tackle these as fellow humans — not with angry protest, not with an “in your face” attitude. Let us find a happier way forward without the bitterness recently evident.

Roger Handford