Flag debate timing 'unacceptable'

NO ORDINARY TIMES: The RSA in Kaitaia is preparing for the centennial of the Gallipoli campaign, the national organisation saying this is not the time to be discussing a new flag.

The Royal New Zealand RSA has labelled the timing of the referendum that could lead to a new flag as unacceptable.

National president BJ Clark said just as New Zealand approached the Anzac centenary, it was being undermined by the establishment of a committee to decide whether the present flag should be cast out, at an "excessive" cost of $26 million.

"A hundred years ago our forces served and sacrificed under the same flag that flies today. It is inappropriate that this debate occurs as we commemorate the centenary of the First World War," Mr Clark said.

"For many who've served, our current flag is symbolic of the sacred oath they made to protect the peace and security of New Zealand. Our men and women have made terrible personal sacrifices, and we honour their courage and commitment every time the current New Zealand flag is flown."

The RSA believed that the current New Zealand flag was just as relevant now as it was when the first Anzacs landed on the shores of Gallipoli.

"Our flag represents the history that makes us uniquely Kiwi today. It unites us with the colonial past that forged the pioneering and innovative people that we are today, while celebrating the special connection we have to the sea and the sky," he added, going on to ask who was demanding a new one.

"Where are the people marching on Parliament wanting a change? They don't exist, because we've never been told why change is necessary," he said.

"If we are to have a referendum at all it should be a simple yes or no to our existing flag."

The RSA was preparing a strategy to fight for the existing flag, which would be unveiled after Anzac Day.

"It's our responsibility to lead the charge on behalf of the RSA and also the hundreds of Kiwis who've contacted us to say they don't want the flag to be changed, and do not understand why it has become such a priority," he said. "It is important that people hear the argument in favour of retaining the flag as well as the publicity given to those who want to consider an alternative."