New Zealand's vote against changing the flag shows that a potential shift to a republic is a long way off, Deputy Prime Minister Bill English says.
After voters chose to retain the national flag in a referendum last week, attention has turned to the next opportunity to debate New Zealand's national identity or constitutional arrangements.
Both major political parties said this morning that a debate on becoming a republic was not a priority.
Mr English told reporters at Parliament: "For most people they've had a vigorous debate, they've confirmed the current flag, and I hope people embrace the current flag, use it more, be enthusiastic about it.
"I think it will be some time before there's any change in either the flag or some push for republicanism."