[html] Saturday February 03, 2007

News

Your Views Your Views: Managers of the Auckland Harbour Bridge have knocked back a request by a Maori sovereignty group to hoist the Maori independence flag on the Auckland Harbour Bridge on Waitangi Day. Transit said that the flag did not represent a recognised country so would not be allowed to be flown from the bridge.

Should the request be granted? Send us your views

>> Read the story

Here is the latest selection of your views:

Here is the latest selection of your views:

Patrice
People..its just a flag! Why are you all getting hot under the collar about a flag? Is it really going to hurt anyone? People are entitled to their flag - be it a Union Jack with a Southern Cross or a Tino Rangatiratanga flag. Just chill out this Waitangi Day and be thankful we all live in a wonderful country together.

Frans Baetens
Regardless what others do my family and a neighbours family will fly the Maori flag on Waitangi Day. We are Pakeha and proud to be New Zealanders. The Treaty and the recognition of a special status of the Tangata whenua is one of these things that makes NZ special and distinct from other countries.

David Geraghty
How utterly lame that Transit NZ are not going to fly the tino rangatiratanga flag. Their argument that they only allow the flags of recognised countries to be flown from the harbour bridge is nonsense. They flew the "Loyal" flag during one of the interminable yachting regattas. White NZ need to get over its fear of Maori celebrating themselves.

One Love
wow.....freedom of speech scares me sometimes...really. I must be very naive because I did not realise how many rednecks we have here in New Zealand. You people think that these so called "Maori radicals" are dividing the country. I think you should take a step back and look at your own behaviour. Ignorant people who have not properly studied New Zealand history really have no right to make such ludicrous statements. What the hell at comparing the tino rangatiratanga flag to the Nazis? Red, white and black are re-occuring colours of importance in hundreds of cultures. And to those obtuse people who are "embarrased to be called a New Zealander", I must say I am also embarrassed to call you a New Zealander! Its a flag for crying out loud, its not like someone is going to come confiscate your land or something.....geeez. :)

Toshi
The Treaty was between the Maori and the Crown so I dont think that flying two flags together on Waitangi day is offensive idea for any other race, including myself. In fact, I would like to see the both flags on the harbour bridge on the Waitangi day as peaceful and symbolic meaning of unity Maori and Pakeha the two signatories. For me, the Tino Rangatiratanga flag seems to be always associated with protesting for Maori rights and may have lost its true symbolic meaning - which represents harmony and enlightement of universe, earth and human. This is probably because this flag is only used and associated with the robbing of Maori rights and therefore the ensuing protests that followed. I would be delighted to see Maori flag fly on the bridge if the flag communicated to people the peaceful real meaning of the design. On the other hand, I dont want to see the flag fly if flag is only used to communicate the protests for Maori rights. Perhaps, it is the time for Maori to educate and show the real meaning of the flag to the rest of the New Zealanders? I am Japanese living in NZ and want to think NZ is fair & liberal country. (and perhaps Jap flag on the VJ days? ;-))

Dan
I am not sure if I represent the majority of New Zealanders or not but I think the more flags they fly on that bridge the prettier it would look. That is about the gravity of this issue.

Niniwa Tuhiwai Are we not proud of the original people of our Land? Are we ashamed, embarrassed, confused? This flag should be flying at all schools, all government departments, Parliament, your house , my house.This flag is not a radical, protest or uprising. It is a symbol of Maoridom, a symbol of our culture, of our independence. Show you support, show some respect, Be proud. Fly the flag. Yep, even in Australia!

Jacqueline
I think the Maori flag should be flown on the bridge to acknowledge Waitangi Day. I am quite offended that the request has been rejected.

Kiritapu Allan
Come on Transit, come on Parekura! Gone are the days of colonial conquerists sitting behind closed doors drumming fingers together to work out how to get more from the natives...surely?! The Tino Rangatiratanga flag embodies the blood, sweat and tears of our tupuna in symbolises the blood shed over the commidification of our earth mother papatuanuku - beyond that this flag is a symbol of hope for rangatahi maori like myself, to fulfill the teachings of my ancestors and strive to hold my head high and walk with pride. A future I want to create for myself, my children and my children's children. Come on Parekura, you know your nanny would be very disappointed in you right now.

Jesse
In the response to the comment left by Aidan Work, I am disgusted that you would compare the Maori Flag to that of the Nazi Germany Flag. Being Maori that is not only an insult but rude, maybe you Aidan should ask or rather research the meaning behind the flag. Before you are quick to type maybe you should read your what you write before you are so eager to click the submit button, Aidan there is alot more to the flag then what is being said and there is a lot more to the maori culture then what you see and watch on TV. Maybe you should come and see what we as Maori do on Waitangi day and maybe you will be shocked to see that to us our flag is not a piece of Neo Nazi Rag but rather a flag we not only want to fly on a national holiday that commerates us as people but a flag we hold dear to our hearts.

Anna
When I first read this story I was annoyed at the lack of respect that the Maori Flag has been given, and now I am just mad at some of the comments that I have read. I have to say again we as Maori are not asking for the flag to be flown on every day but Waitangi Day is more symbolic to Maori then it is the every other culture in NZ, and as for the comment on the us Maori's adapting to Pakeha way of life, everyone in this world has had to adapt to that way of life thank you very much, I cant believe all the close minded comments that I have read, maybe some of you should try listening to the elder generation of us Maori and hear how the were told they werent allowed to speak their native tongue, whipped for it when they did and treated like social outcasts, Waitangi is not only a day to remember the signing of the Treaty but to also acknowledge our past and to embrace our future, but when you have close minded people that say comments about this and that then it does became a day of debate and ridicule, Let us Fly the Flag on Waitangi Day but not only that but let us who are proud of our heritage Fly the Flag in our Hearts and carry the torch for our Whanau. Stand Proud all the Maori people around the world and speak the language we love.

Grant
This whole thing is just a pre-Waitangi Day political ambush to embarrass the government and get some publicity - and its working! But, if it were up to me, Id say Lets have the tino rangatiratanga flag up there! I never liked the idea of flags flying on the Bridge in the 1st place, as they tend to get us into exactly this kind of trouble - but, now that we're doing it, why cant we honour Maoridom on the 6th of Feb like we do other nations?

Gav
The only flag that should be flown is the New Zealand Flag. The flag that thousands off servicemen gave their lives for during WW1 and WW2.

Stephen
Both flags should fly. As a young Maori male, I can distinguish between rather stupid claims/comments that come out of Maori and Pakeha mouths. Something that isnt stupid, is the previous comments asking for unity, especially on Waitangi Day. Denying the right to fly the flag is only going to stir trouble. Side by Side I say.

Bob
The Maori flag is ugly and it is gang colours. Ban it!

Overseas
I am a New Zealander staying over in Australia, but any way, why dont you just fly both of them, cosh don't be so mean to us Maoris hey, because it was our country before the white people came.

Dave
I couldnt agree more with "a frustrated reader". The treaty was signed by the chiefs representing their tribes and the crown. Why therefore should hard working NZ taxpayers (of any ethnicity) keep forking out tax dollars on the grievances of the past. The crown signed the treaty, so in my opinion, the NZ Govt should simply ship all treaty grievances over to the Ku and let the damn Poms deal with the problem that their precious royalty created. Many countries the Poms marched into to ever so noble and honourably expand the empire, they unnobly and dishonourably crept out of and left the problems they created. The pommy taxpayer should shoulder the treaty burden, not New Zealanders. I do not think that Transit should let the flag fly from the Harbour Bridge. The sovereignty flag has in my opinion come to symbolise the divisive campaign waged by a small group of malcontents out to get something for nothing. If I wanted to fly a flag from the Harbour Bridge, Transit would tell me (politely Im sure) that I would not be allowed. I guess the difference is that: a) I am not arrogant enough to expect that a flag of my making be flown from a prominent Auckland landmark b) I am not arrogant enough to create a national storm in a teacup to protest the fact that I was supposedly being treated unfairly. I am heartily sick of this ongoing childish fiasco.

Christine
No! It is not an international flag. Do they fly the Maori flag at the olympics, when kiwis are involved? Um, no! So no, it shouldnt be flown, we have a flag, and we all know what that looks like.

Angie
No, the Maori flag does not represent our country and I am still wondering why it is not recognised as a national icon, as it does represent the people indigenous to this land, Maori! After the settlers arrived and stripped this country of its original identity; slowly stealing our language, beliefs, and land; we have held on strongly to our culture, and value it very highly. So to deny us this one small thing is like saying "no you are not allowed to be proud of who you are and where you come from." What happened to freedom of speech? I think Transit New Zealand should be ashamed, we do not need another racist Don Brash wannabe trying to undo the years of hard work we have done preserving our heritage, by denying us something as simple as a flag. And another thing, Who do they think it is going to hurt?

P Dalton
I think the debate that is going on here is really healthy for a number of reasons. First of all, it shows the intelligence level or lack there of, of a number of people who have submitted their own opinions. There is unity and division amongst New Zealanders of all ethnicity on this issue. Isnt that normal in a multi-cultural society? I have come up with a solution. Why dont we allow all ethnic groups to celebrate their own holiday of choice. You could simply have it written into your work contract, which under a Labour government would work fine. Take whatever day you want to celebrate! As Waitangi and New Zealand day just seems to agitate too many people. That way we could have Waitangi Day, New Zealand day, Day of the first arrival of the Korean Community... It would go on and on and on. Great business! Also, it will give the Political Correctness people more to be proud of. Lets get rid of the bridge all together and get tunnels. Privatise them so we don't have to think about this, also improving transport and the view of the harbour. Who would hang a flag in a tunnel? OK, so there was a load of sarcasm there, but we really need a new flag.

Garry
Why shouldnt the nations bi-cultural origins be recognised and respected by having the beautiful Tino Rangatiratanga flag fly alongside the Union Jack on the harbour bridge during Waitangi Day? Those people who are so fearful of all things Maori should realise that it is Maoritanga which makes this country so unique and that that fact already is symbolised in our national coat of arms which has both Britannia and a Maori Rangatira as supporters. Incidentally, isnt Transit required under its legislation to consider the social needs of communities and aren't Maori one of those communities?

Tony
As a proud kiwi living in Australia and about to return home I am totally opposed to the Maori flag, it is a divisive tool used by activists to push their agenda. Growing up in NZ during the 70's and 80's we all identified as New Zealanders regardless of what ethnic background we came from - NZ is and should remain one nation, one people, one flag.

Murray Morgan
How to win friends and influence people. A group of petty bureaucrats deny our treaty partners one chance in a year to peacefully express themselves by flying a symbol of their hopes and aspirations. Come on! Wake up and smell the flowers. If I had two flagpoles I would fly both flags on our National Day. And before the tall poppy brigade get in on the act, I am an Anglo Saxon of proud Welsh descent!

Craig Langlands
I feel embarassed over Transits decision not to allow the Maori flag to be flown on Tuesday. We should be proud of ourselves both Maori and Pakeha as New Zealanders. Get over it Transit!!

Aidan Work
I believe very strongly that the only flag that should fly on the Auckland Harbour Bridge is the New Zealand Blue Ensign. Those who want to fly their black,white,& red rag on the Auckland Harbour Bridge are a bunch of extremely racist & braindead bigots who have had their way in this country for far too long! The Blue Ensign represents New Zealand both as a multi-ethnic member state of the British Commonwealth & our place in the South Pacific. If a Maori flag should be flown, why not fly the flag of the Confederation of the United Tribes? That flag doesnt have a racial overtone at all. The black,white,& red rag is deeply offensive,as the colours are the same as the Nazi German flag,which is why it should be permanently proscribed! I saw this racist rag at Moutoa Gardens back in 1995,which is another reason why it should be permanently banned from public display. Does anyone else agree with me on this?

A Frustrated Reader
I am a bit frustrated about the flag debate and Waitangi Day and the divisions it always causes. But there is a bigger issue here that I think NZers (Maori and Pakeha) should think about. Why is it that NZ taxpayers (Maori, Pakeha, Chinese, Indian - whatever) are paying for claims being settled under a treaty signed by the British? As NZers we are being screwed. Why don't we as a country tell The Crown that it is them who should honour the Treaty, not the NZ taxpayer.

Adam
These Maori activists are just trying to divide our nation of New Zealanders. We are one nation, not Maoris & everyone else.

Kathleen
Can someone enlighten me? Is the Tino Rangatiratanga Flag an official representation of all New Zealand Maori tribes? Has it been sanctioned by all Maori? Before flying such a flag, it is right that it should be recognized by all Maori for all Maori or conversely be clear for whom it does represent - such things set precedences for the future, the debate is healthy and helps us all define who we are now, where we have come from and what we aspire to be in the future. An interesting comment I had from a Japanese resident of New Zealand, regarding his sense of status as a resident, as(he perceives)reflected by New Zealanders and Canadians (pertaining to when he resided in Canada) "New Zealand is like a melting pot, Canada is like a salad bowl." Personally I feel a salad bowl is a better path to be aspiring to, I like the concept of First Nations as opposed to indigenous, I like the concept of a new flag, like the Canadians created, but then I am biased I guess - I am first Canadian and but not second, New Zealander.

Paul
The treaty was between the crown and the Maori, so if 2 flags fly they should be the union jack and the Maori flag. But quite honestly this continuing revision of history that somehow makes out the Brits are baddies and the Maori are goodies and Maori are indigenous and the Brits were terrible invaders is all rubbish. There are no indigenous peoples here in NZ, and the treaty should if anything be celebrated not as some victory by Maori, which it wasnt, but as a genuine and liberal minded effort by the Brits to do the right thing and protect the rights of the earlier settlers (Maori). Had the French been in charge, there would have been no Maori left! so perhaps fly the British flag and a great big one saying thank you!

Paul J
We are one people New Zealanders so why the need for seperate flag as we already have our own? So definitely no to a racist Maori flag flying on bridge. 20 years ago there there were no problems and since those Maori claims they want more and more. Give the Maoris a inch and they want a mile. Its getting more racist all the time. If the Maoris want a flag up there we might as well let the Chinese and Japanese and other nations fly their flag at the same time. The day should be called New Zealand Day not Waitangi day as surely its observed by all New Zealanders and not Maoris only. Therefore one nation means one flag. Surely the Maoris wanting a flag is creating a division.

Half caste Kiwi
Can someone please tell me why we trace our ancestry back to a canoe? What makes us the indigenous people? We are all here by deed of might. Moriori vs Maori, Maori vs English. What if we were under Dutch rule? How then would we have fared? What right does anyone have to claim rights to anything. Why cant we have a kiwi flag and learn to share. A lot of claims seem to centre around monetary gain and constant controversy does nothing but divide. United we stand, divided we fall. If your father kills someone, do you go to prison for them? No. So why should we still be paying for the decisions of our forefathers? Other cultures in NZ have maintained their own identity themselves. If you wish to maintain your culture is it not your responsibility to teach your children - why should someone else foot the bill? We cant be looking over our shoulders at what might have been - acknowledge our past, look to the future. Accept as we always do that we all make mistakes, make bad decisions, still get ripped off or unwittingly conned by others. Thats life - get over it! Life is what you make it.

Jo
If they had just flown it without all the publicity, would anyone even notice? Too late now.

Murray Lynn
It has been claimed that only national flags are permitted to fly on the Auckland Harbour Bridge. I seem to recall the silver fern flag flying during the Americas Cup defence. Does this mean that at last the silver fern has been rightfully recognised as an alternative New Zealand flag?

Nicki
Correct me if I am wrong but I was under the impression that Waitangi Day is the day to recognise the signing of the Treaty by both Maori and European blood on the 6th of February 1940. Waitangi Day was not successfully changed to New Zealand Day and I am of the opinion that it should represent the signing of the Treaty at Waitangi not the successful colonisation of New Zealand by the British (which is blatantly obvious in the red and blue and the Union Jack that dominate the NZ flag). There is not one thing on the NZ flag that represent Maori in the signing of the Treaty. Lets not get so complicated and remember those who signed the Treaty. I would personally like to see the rangatira flag flying high right next to the NZ flag. Maybe it is time to rethink our National flag!!?

Stuart Smith
I would have expected a big deal over this from a place like Christchurch, not Auckland, the great multicultural city of the South West Pacific. If the indigenous flag is to fly at Santa Monica and if an Aboriginal flag flew from Sydney Harbor Bridge, then: what is the big deal ? I suggest fly both flags, on Waitangi Day. There are two flagstaffs at the top of the Harbour Bridge. Surely, this a no brainer. We have come to accept the National Anthem being sung in both English and Maori pre sports fixtures. Move ahead New Zealand.

Sarah M
We are New Zealand, we fly one flag. Think of all the commotion it would cause being put on the Harbour Bridge! People slowing down to have a look at it, stopping traffic, causing accidents. Come on guys! Think of the consequences. If it flies on Harbour Bridge on Tuesday, it will just be tearing New Zealand apart even more. We don't need that. If the Maori fly their so-called flag, do the Europeans get to fly their flag, how about people from Japan, China, India? They are all New Zealanders as ell, are they not?

Nick
Lets have lots of flagpoles all along the bridge, this will allow all the different and to date unofficial Maori flags to be erected, and why not let Maori sell kumera on the side of the bridge too, as we see the current treaty claim to get the rights to the sweet South American veggie.

Dan
I think the main issue here is that this flag has been hijacked by the Maori Party, Would we allow a National, Labour or Green flag up there as well?

Linda
I say put the flag up, sounds like a great idea. We should do as many things as possible to show that it is our national day and we are happy to be New Zealanders.

Grant
This whole thing is just a pre-Waitangi Day political ambush to embarrass the government and get some publicity - and it is working! But, if it were up to me, I would say Lets have the tino rangatiratanga flag up there! I never liked the idea of flags flying on the bridge in the 1st place, as they tend to get us into exactly this kind of trouble - but, now that we are doing it, why cant we honour Maoridom on the 6th of Feb like we do other nations?

Jase
Hell yeah, we should fly it, we are all having the day off work arent we?

Belinda
A flags a flags a flag. Lets not get too carried away now people. It's like having a panic attack over what to eat for dinner tonight, in comparison to what we should really be focusing on what's important for the nation ie child welfare & the legal system (far too lenient by the way). Oh why oh why does this have to be such a drama?! Rather annoying. Is my logic good or what?! Just fly the Maori flag for goodness sake! Heck, fly the NZ Union Jack too! As Starsky & Hutch would say:Do It. I think some people are getting way too grudged out & sour about division between black & white (Im half of each)rather than looking on the overall picture here: we are one nation, Pakehas & Maoris are kiwis and aint nothing going to change that. May I remind you that there are a few bad apples in every race?. I have learnt to take the log out of my own eye before I see a spec in someone elses. So please: be logical, be happy. I live by day to day that helps me get by & learn not to sweat the small stuff, & respect that everyone's different so learn to live with it, embrace what you will - what applies to you & learn from others. Uh huh.

Damon of Wellington
Fly the Maori flag I say. Why not? I am a proud New Zealander and have represented this country overseas on a number of occasions. Sure the NZ flag represents NZ but it doesn't truly represent all of New Zealand / Aotearoa. That is why we have a portion of the population wishing to be represented by flying a flag they believe accurately depicts who they are. On a very important national day. On a very visible Kiwi landmark. Some people have labeled NZ Maori as living in the past but how can we fix mistakes without revisiting them. I would prefer for modern New Zealand to design a flag that truly represents our nation. How about the silver fern on black background? Break free from the Union Jack and make our own. But until then I think Maori should fly the flag they believe represents them.

Tim Saunders
To say that Transit NZ only flies national flags is not correct. That frightful, dowdy black rag with the silver fern upon it was flown upon the bridge during the last Americas Cup.

Ceinwen
As a New Zealander living overseas, people often comment on how lucky I am to come from a country that respects and celebrates its indigenous people. Next time anyone compliments me on our harmonious south Pacific paradise, I will inform them that sadly we still have a lot of growing up to do. Grow up New Zealand! Let the Tino Rangatira flag fly.

Nicki
I am absolutely disgusted with Shane Nikora's comments: I reckon you Pakeha should just keep on doing what ever you want with scant regard to the feelings or beliefs of anyone else. I mean, gee, you gotta be true to yourself, and oppressing other peoples is what you do aint it? Thats whats been happenening since Captain Cook murdered my whanaunga in Gizzy back in 1769. Carry on as you were, I say... why change now? Did you not read half of these comments? A lot of pakeha are in support of flying the flag - myself included! There are also a number of Maori that support it NOT being flown on Waitangi Day! Is it really about a flag being flown at the end of the day or are some people still intent on making the divide bigger instead of bringing everyone together. It seems that some are using the flag issue as an opening to drag up everything from the past – I am sorry but the sooner that some come to terms with what happened and deal with it we are never ever going to be one nation. I am sorry to sound callous but what happened happened and not one of us alive today are responsible for the events back then. There are things being done to try to compensate for what happened then but we cannot blame anyone living in this country right now for the decisions that were made back then! So flying the flag or not - it seems that there are still much bigger issues out there that some people cannot deal with and flying the flag is not going to resolve them.

Debbie
No the flag should not be flown. If any flag is to be flown it should be the flags that were flown on Waitangi Day in 1840, not one that has recently been designed and which many people associate with protests, racism etc. So did Maori have a flag then, or did the idea of flags come from the Europeans? Why do Maori want to be separate all the time and have separate rules, funding, rugby teams etc..? Why cant we be one nation - New Zealanders. Australia just had 'Australia Day', and they all celebrated their country and seemed to be proud of it. I am never proud of Waitangi Day, its just another holiday where the lead up to it is full of arguments and the 6 O'Clock news on the day will be full of stories or arguments, protests etc.. Its the same old story every year. If anything this debate should be about having a New Zealand Day which celebrates all of the cultures of NZ, not Waitangi Day which seems to celebrate the separatism of Maoris from the rest of our cultures in our lovely country.

Nicole Roughan
What small-mindedness Transit has shown. And short memory. On September 11, 2002, one year after the events of 9/11, the Stars and Stripes flew over the Harbour Bridge. The flying of that flag that day was not to mark a foreign national founding, or a visit by a prominent head of state, but to show that here in New Zealand, so many thousands of miles away, we care. Why should public policy then care so much less for those whose land we now share and whose goodwill and hospitality is so frequently on display even where it is undeserved. The State has not often been the bigger person in this relationship it is the most powerful, but very seldom the most generous. Flying the Tino Rangatiratanga flag over the bridge would be just another symbolic step in the continuous process of respecting and relating the diverse peoples of Aotearoa. To deny this on the grounds of policy and avoiding precedent is a massive over-assessment of Transits own importance in this issue. Sort out the roads, and apply your strict policies to do so, but this realm of flag-flying is one for generosity not pomposity. So fly the flag and show that we care at least as much for our closest friends and neighbours as we do for the office-workers and firefighters of New York.

Trish Jenner
The NZ flag only is appropriate - this seems to be just the usual agitation we get every Waitangi day, roll on NZ day!

Ian
The tino rangatiratanga flag no. A formally accepted and acknowledged Maori flag yes.Tino rangatiratanga appears to be dragged out in situations which divide New Zealanders, is attached to every Maori gripe, protest and anti pakeha racism. How often is that flag flown next to a Black Power or Mongrol Mob Patch. The tino rangatiratanga flag is tarnished. To the point where when the flag is seen ears and eyes become closed. Maori have much to give New Zealand and share with the world and I would much rather here about the success of Maori than minority gripes. I am sure there is a way forward, albeit long winded, that can allow a Maori flag that can be flown from the harbour bridge that all New Zealanders are proud of sometime in the future.

C Newman
It is Transits policy only to fly recognised national flags, hence refusing to fly the Maori one. It is not recognised by the government. If Transit says yes then they will have every man and his dog wanting to fly their flag! However, it pulls up a point for the Maori. If they so desperately want their own flag, then they need to agree on one and apply to the government to have it recognised. But this only drives another wedge between Maori and pakeha. As many have already said (and the purpose of the treaty in the first place), the NZ flag unites all people of NZ. I am 100 per cent NZer (of European descent), but have grown up with aspects of Maori culture, which I consider make up me as a person. I've always been scared to acknowledge and celebrate Maori because of the extremists who attack us for stealing their culture. We are not stealing it like Maori have adopted pakeha ways (housing/ education/ welfare/ materialism), us pakeha are also adopting Maori ways. That is the point of becoming one nation! Good on Transit for sticking to their policies. And Happy Waitangi Day to all.

Captaintikei
It never ceases to surprise me by the passionate debate of the two sides in our Kiwi nation as they compete for the higher morale ground. As a Maori living near Belfast in Ulster where the issue of flags is never far from the limelight and controversy and debate that surrounds them is a forever ongoing lesson of groundhog day. One is struck by the parallels of the NZ flags argument and the debate that surrounded the flying of the Irish tricolour next to the union flag within the Belfast city hall by the former republican Sinn Fein Lord mayor Alex Maskey in 2003 and the furore that caused amongst unionists. Now we have debate about the proposal to hoist the Maori flag above the Auckland bridge is currently causing. I can still remember Unionist leader Ian Paisley demanding only the union flag be allowed and Alex Maskey demanding equality of both flags. So Aoteraoa/New Zealand, nations around the world have been here before and the trend usually ends up that both flags will eventually fly as they do here in Ulster albeit in abundance. People grumble about it but then one gets used to it. My bet is that both will be up there over the bridge by next Waitangi day under the banner "building a nation of equals" after all it is a historic day between 2 peoples celebrating our national day. They will fly together thats certain its just a question of when?

Concerned from Whangarei
Dont you just love how all of the closet racists come out whenever ridiculous debates like this arise. Dont worry. I am sure Maori only want to fly a flag not take over the world! Get a grip.

Hoana
I am so fiercely proud of our New Zealand flag! You ask any Maori you know how proud they are of this flag. I have cried when at the Olympics our flag was flown when gold was won. Generations of Maori fought in both World Wars, Vietnam etc and they were just as proud of the New Zealand flag. And many Maori are just as ready to fight for this flag today. To suggest that as Maoris we are denigrating the New Zealand flag! Simply requesting that we fly the Tino Rangatira flag, oh come on... grow up. We are first and foremost New Zealanders, but I identify myself as a Maori at home, that is my ethnicity, thats how you as New Zealanders identify me, when I am overseas, hey, I am a New Zealander.

Mike B
As an immigrant, I think it is important to celebrate the many different cultures, which live harmoniously side by side in New Zealand. It is also important to remember where we come from, but this must be so that you can appreciate the present more. If the flag will do this, and if the flag really represents the Maori identity, then fly it to represent one of the signatories. But if it does not truly represent the Maori people, but only a handful of political hardliners (as some comments above have led me to believe) then it will not help to appreciate the present. It will only drive a wedge into todays society and will be to the benefit of those hardline politicians only. Perhaps what is required is some sort of Maori cultural symbolism in the current NZ flag? I dont see any there. Or the Union Jack taken out (time to cut the apron strings). Then the flag would properly represent one nation.

Simon Adams
The flag should not be flown on Waitangi day we are one nation with one flag. Radicals continue to attempt to divide the country.

Maggie Backhurst
When is this going to stop? Do we have to spend the rest of our lives paying for sins of the past and apologising for having white skin. I believe all New Zealand has had a guts fill of the division all these claims and demands have created. It is never going to end unless there is strong government intervention.We are one nation. Please please do not reverse the decision and allow the Maori flag on our bridge. Lets not show the world our beautiful country has become another South Africa of the past.

Terry Arnold
Only flags of recognised nations should be flown on the Harbour Bridge. The Maori independence group is not a recognised institution under New Zealand Law.

Deb
This day does not belong exclusively to the Maori it belongs to all New Zealanders. We have a national flag and that is the one that should be flying. I do not recognise the Maori flag as a flag or symbol of this country. We have a flag and all New Zealanders should be proud of it.

Alise
Let them raise the flag over the harbour bridge on Waitangi day! By denying, Transit will cause more division than allowing (I suspect Transit are starting to realise this by now). If Maori forge ahead with the planned protest as reported, there will no doubt be police in attendance. I see this as a waste of precious public resources, and an avoidable situation. Not to mention a public relations nightmare for Transit NZ.

Scott Joseph
Yes, they should be allowed to fly the flag. Let us try not to respect other people's views, please. And it is Waitangi Day.

Pip
Perhaps we should fly a flag with a kumara on it? It just gets ridiculous, does it matter if we have 2 flags. Fly it I say.

Shane Nikora
I reckon you Pakeha should just keep on doing what ever you want with scant regard to the feelings or beliefs of anyone else. I mean, gee, you gotta be true to yourself, and oppressing other peoples is what you do aint it? Thats what's been happenening since Captain Cook murdered my whanaunga in Gizzy back in 1769. Carry on as you were, I say... why change now?

Chuck Maki
I just took a look at the variations of the Maori flag and I think its a whole lot better than hanging on to that pommie flag. The current NZ flag is easily confused with that of Australia plus it looks a lot like a Brit merchantman vessels flag. Check Canadas flag. They went to a unity flag and perhaps NZ can do it sometime soon and avoid nonsensical issues but I suppose its always good for one political side to have a ready made wedge issue for elections. Best of luck with this. Maybe you can copy in some fashion the flag of British Columbia? Its a grand flag.

Moheka
I want to see the Maori flag raised, not as a statement of tino rangatiratanga, but of unity, with the current NZ flag side by side. I would like to see both draped under the harbour bridge larger than life, the celebration of all in this country. NZers have to debate the issue of a flag that represents this country's people, we need a referendum to officially change our flag, it is long overdue.

Anonymous
I think they should get rid of Waitangi Day altogether. If such minor issues like the flying of a flag (or not) is gonna cause a major upheaval amongst our society, then why bother with it at all? As a full-time working Maori mother, theres a lot more important things to worry about. Get rid of Waitangi Day and make it a normal working day. That will really give all of you something to whinge about!!

Lenore
I think that the flag called by some "The Maori flag" is most attractive. However naming it as the Maori Flag is not correct as it is accepted only by some Maori not all. I agree - let's get a National NZ Flag that represents all of the people of NZ. In the meantime, Transit NZ can stick to their policy - but correct me if Im wrong - did I not see in a television clip recently, the NZ flag on one side and the black with silver fern flag on the other side of the bridge? What country is that the official flag of?

Barry McDonald
It is a pity there are not three flagpoles. Then we could have: a Union Flag for mum Britannia (one treaty partner); a Maori flag (be it the Tino Rangitiratanga (TR) flag, Flag of the United Tribes, or some other) for matua Maori (the other treaty partner); and a New Zealand flag as a symbol of us all - their legal, cultural, and in many cases physical, descendants.I think this points out where the disagreement lies. The majority recognise the NZ flag as a symbol of everyone - including Maori - and not just representing one treaty partner. From this viewpoint no dishonour is intended to Maori by saying the NZ flag cannot be set equal to the flag of a subset of the population: because by subtraction it would reduce the flag's meaning to representing only non-Maori as opposed to Maori. This would represent a splitting of the country and an undoing or redoing of the Treaty (which appears to be precisely the aim of some).Some, stirred by this debate, have argued for a different NZ flag, saying the present one is basically just a British flag anyway, and we need something more representative. We could go down the route of change, though not without conflict of its own. The TR flag, though beautiful, embodies such division and exclusion of non-Maori that it could never be the national flag. I have a strong suspicion that whatever new NZ flag was developed, some would want to set the TR flag equal to it, and our symbol of unity would become a symbol of division once more. This is because some insist on seeing New Zealand (personified by the government) as one treaty partner and Maori as the other. This contrasts to the hope of the majority of NZers that this is essentially one country, generations on from mum and matua.

Bev Hinga-Boswell
Why not, the haka is so readily claimed by most as Aotearoa/New Zealand. Let it proudly fly beside the New Zealand flag. I know? Why not just design a new flag depicting Maori, pakeha and maybe a symbol that represents other cultures. I would be pleasantly surprised if these 2 suggestions ever see the light in my lifetime.

Mudge
As a New Zealander and a Maori, I think there is only one flag for New Zealand and thats the one we got.

Johnny
I live in Australia also so to the people who think it' a good idea to change Waitangi day to New Zealand day as they think it will be more inclusive I have got this to say. Most Australians like it yes, but the few Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders that I know call it Invasion Day. Sound inclusive?

Paul Jaggar
It would be a sad day if the decision makers gave in to the threats and allowed the so called Maori flag to fly on the bridge. Fly the NZ flag which represents all New Zealanders, not one the ungrateful minority want to fly to advance their aspirations for independent sovereignty, that will in turn eventually tear the country apart. No to the Maori flag.

Joan
Waitangi day is like watching a car race - anticipating a crash. Whilst mud and tears are an international embarrassment to Maori, they make entertaining TV viewing at the end of a (hopefully) holiday. We need a national day.

Anne
If we can fly a flag for a yacht race to stir National pride, why can we not do this? Perhaps it would be a start to repairing our internal relationship with our fellow countrymen and women. Transit NZ might "own" the bridge but for goodness sake why are we at the mercy of the whims of a select few? It is not often I agree with Tariana Turia, but this time perhaps she is right. NZers need to grow up. Maybe even adopt a live and let live approach. You know the one, do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

Rex Harrison
What is really quite a reasonable request to fly a flag representative of cultural identity on the Auckland Harbour Bridge gets turned down on the spurious grounds that it does not represent a country. What countries do the various corporate flags that Transit NZ have allowed from time to time to fly from the bridge represent? It comes as no surprise that over 70 per cent of Herald readers voted "no" to flying the flag, given the knee-jerk, paranoid fear that results whenever Maori stand up and say "We want..." As Tariana Turia has already commented, this country needs to grow up.

Paula Vincent
It is very disappointing that Transit have been so unreasonable over the request to fly the Maori flag. Waitangi Day is the perfect day to fly the flag in acknowledgment of Maori guardianship over New Zealand and their history here. It is petty and narrow minded to refuse the request.

Joan Macdonald
What a great idea to fly the Tino Rangatiratanga Flag from the bridge on Waitangi Day to acknowledge Maori(tangata whenua),who on this day in 1840 by signing Te Tiriti o Waitangi, agreed to allow the settlers to have the right to live here. Perhaps the Confederation Flag should also be considered as that was the flag of the United Tribes of New Zealand who signed the Treaty.

Anna
My understanding was Transit denied flying the flag as it was not recognised as a national flag by the government. So in theory, if the government accepted it as a national flag, in turn Transit would allow it to fly? I have always considered myself a New Zealander, and not applied race to that description. A lot of the comments here are very racially targeted and a segregation of beliefs and culture. NZ is not a country of Maori and European, it is a multi culture country and the NZ flag represents us as a country, whether we be European, Indian, Chinese, Maori, etc.Essentially I have no issue with the Maori flag running along side the NZ flag to represent the Maori people but I think it is unfair to target Transit and perhaps we need to look at the NZ flag issue in its own right.

Johnny
Reading some of the comments posted disturbs me. Yes, the Tino Rangatiratanga flag is not an official flag and so maybe shouldnt be erected, Thats a different issue. The issue for me is that most of the people only wont 1 flag, not a Maori one however. The people who argue that we are all New Zealanders are correct but forget that under the very thing being celebrated there is a requirement of bi-culturalism. I see no bi-cultural values in flying 1 flag of only one side. Yes we are one country, but we are not all one cultural background. Celebrate difference, recognise difference and let people do this. Don't expect everyone to assimilate to one culture. Yes grievances of the past are in the past, yet the past reflects what are the outcomes of different cultures today. Is it fair that a culture who was here 1st has less to show economically and socially than the Europeans that arrived. Some may say it's the Maori at fault for this, but by doing this they assume it's a coincidence that Maori started to suffer in these fields on European arrival. To all the other cultures living in NZ. I pay respect to your culture, but how do you expect to gain equal respect from a country who under the treaty is supposed to be bi-cultural, imagine how far away NZ is from being a good multi-cultural society.

Johnny
I saw someone write that the Moriori didnt get a chance. To that I say get with it, ignorance is not bliss. Even people who argue that the Maori where not here here first (who happen to be highly discredited in academic circles) acknowledge that they were not Moriori. Moriori are descendants of the first arrivals which Maori also descended. Should not make points of view with fantasy.

Jennifer Margaret
In 2004 I attended a pre election public meeting held at AUT where Auckland City mayoral candidates outlined their policies and platforms. At the meeting, whilst campaigning for votes, then mayoral candidate Dick Hubbard was asked if as mayor he would support the Tino Rangatiratanga flag being flown from the harbour bridge. To the delight of many in the audience he replied in the affirmative. I sincerely hope that Mr Hubbard is now going to follow through on that promise. Waitangi Day is an opportunity for us to recognise the relationship and commitments affirmed by the Treaty of Waitangi. Mayor Hubbard and Auckland City have an opportunity to acknowledge their special relationship with Ngati Whatua. What better way to do this than to have both the Tino Rangatiratanga flag and the New Zealand flag flying on the harbour bridge?

Bryon Green
No to this flag being flown on the Ak Harbour Bridge. Get rid of Waitangi Day and the Tribuial while your at it-millions of dollars wasted while Health Education and law and Order go to pot.

Vince Jefferson
Maori separatists bent on imposing their new-fangled flag on the rest of New Zealand should be supported in their drive for independence. After all there are plenty of uninhabited pacific islands where they could watch their flag flutter exclusively, 365 days a year. Those who are saying grow up New Zealand are missing the point. The majority of New Zealand has grown up, it is the boisterous flag waving few that are living in the past.

Kevin
I do not want to see any other nations flag flying on the day we commemorate our nations founding document. Whether we are still debating treaty issues or not, New Zealand is one nation of many peoples. There is only one NZ flag and this is the one we should fly. The flag being touted is not the Maori flag. It is the flag of a minority with a hardline political agenda. Many of the overseas and migrant readers who have contributed comments will not realise that this flag does not give us a sense of unity. Why dont those who want to see a Maori flag take one along to the Auckland Domain on Tuesday. It is more likely to be seen by all those who spend this day celebrating Bob Marley' birthday each year with public drug use. Incidentally, imagine if the Jamaicans kicked up a stink about anyone borrowing from their culture the way Maori do. Be consistent. If there is a positive aspect to this culture, let's start seeing it so we have something to celebrate.

Susan Perry
Absolutely not!

Raewyn Powell
I thought that Waitangi Day was the National Day of the country of New Zealand! the flag we fly on that day needs to reflect the people of NZ. We are no longer a European colonial majority with an indigenous minority, New Zealand is a country populated by people from all over the globe. You cannot alienate the majority of the population on our national day by flying a flag that represents only one of the ethnic groups that make up this fabulous country.

Jan O'Brien
Please hoist the NZ Flag. This flag represents all New Zealanders. No doubt the powers that be will be bullied and blackmailed into flying both flags, however I believe this is a backward step into segregation of races. New Zealand is a multicultural country not only Maori and as such a New Zealand flag should be flown.

Paul
There is only one flag for New Zealand, the one that Kiwis fought and died for. The Maori flag is not that one nor is it Internationally recognised.Maori have separate schools, health services and a host of other separatist requirments. The New Zealand flag is for all Kiwis. I say no to the Maori request.They really are living in the past. Perhaps they could build their own bridge, hang whatever they want on it and then get over it.

Vince Jefferson
Maori separatists bent on imposing their new-fangled flag on the rest of New Zealand should be supported in their drive for independence. After all there are plenty of uninhabited pacific islands where they could watch their flag flutter exclusively, 365 days a year. Those who are saying 'grow up New Zealand' are missing the point. The majority of New Zealand has grown up, it is the boisterous flag waving few that are living in the past.

J Sharp
After all the Maorioris did not get much of a chance to fly their flag.

Jill Newlands
Democracy was born on this day February 6th 1840 due to the signing of the treaty of Waitangi."Yes" we should fly the Maori flag, and fly it with pride. How dare anyone challenge their democratic right to do so.

Anna
I am really disgusted about some of the comments that I have read about the Maori Flag being flown on the NZ harbour bridge, there is a comment that I especially disagree with and that is the comment in regards to the liking of flying the flag like the aboriginies did on Aboriginal Day. I am of Maori and european descent I am proud of both sides of my culture, the Maori have never likened themselves to the Aborigines of Australia, do we understand their struggle, their oppression or their right to be heard, then the answer is yes, all around the world we celebrate different holidays for different reasons. Why is it not ok for one day of the year for us Maoris to be able to celebrate our holiday that commemorates the struggles we have overcome and the future ahead for us as a culture and a nation, the flag has a meaning and not one of oppression but rather a new beginning for us to unite, I am a proud Maori/ European living in Australia and never have I been ashamed to say I come from a country that voices opinions from those of closed minded people that do know want to embrace change, I say fly the Maori Flag and show the world that we are a proud nation that embraces old and new things.

Whetu
If everyone in the world could please move back to the area their race came from. Thank you. Problem solved. Oh wait, that means the Maori's are back in east asia and New Zealand or Aotea (only whites ever called it Aotearoa) as they used to call it is devoid of humans. Grow up people. This is the world we live in now. The more mixed we are in the world, the more peace there will be. The more separate we are, the more violence. People of all races, skin colours, and beliefs living all over the world is only going to get more and more. Waving a little flag saying we were here first just looks more and more ridiculous. If there was no monetary gain to be had from doing such a thing it would stop pretty damn quick. Are you listening national / labour?.

Abigael Vogt
It would be great if Transit flew the Tino Rangatiratanga flag on Waitangi Day. In 1888/89 our national rugby team called the Natives, a precursor to the All Blacks, had no difficulty in touring proudly with two flags. They took the Union Jack and the flag of the Confederation of the United Tribes of New Zealand with them whilst touring in Australia and the United Kingdom. The flag of the United Tribes was the first New Zealand flag. It was used by vessels in international trade in the 1830s and was closely linked with the 1835 Declaration of Independence. Transit should consider the actions of our forebears and fly a flag which represents sovereign nations as both the United Tribes and the Tino Rangatiratanga flags do.

Aki
This flag story is nonsense and so is Waitangi day and Anzac day and all the sorts of days celebrated in nz. I am a Muslim immigrant, and you give us no recognition of our special days, and as a Muslim I do not recognise the pagan nonsense of the people you call indigenous or the white colonials who only gave them a treaty to stop them eating each other. NZ is a multi-cultural society now, and Maori groups or white groups have no more importance here than me and my religion, which is the true one. So yes fly a flag, who cares, but dont make out it is important. Your society has changed and you have not even noticed!

Simon
Yes! Fly the flag! Fly both the Union Jack and the Rangatiratanga. The two flags flying together would be a powerful symbol of the union that created our beloved New Zealand. Transit needs to pull their redneck out of the sand and grow up fast. I am flabbergasted that they were hypocritical enough to reject the application in the first place.

Mike Rua
As a half Maori, I get really annoyed at these radicals who say they represent Maori because they don't. They are making it look like they are representative but are just loud and obnoxious. I do not live in the past holding onto bitter prejudices but instead acknowledge the past as the past and get on with my life. Who needs a millstone around their necks; not me. Grow up Maori radicals. Flags arent even a Maori thing.

Nath
Here we have the government and other institutions preaching to Fiji about democracy but at the same time not allowing Maori to express themselves through hoisting a flag on the Auckland bridge. Am I missing something or is this what we should expect from New Zealand govt and its institutions?

Liam Baldwin
Transit is wrong. Yes, the Maori flag is not that of a recognised country. I am not sure why that criteria has to be followed in this case. It is a unique situation and it is a unique flag. As a Pakeha New Zealander, I have no issue with the display of the flag. It diminishes nothing. In fact, its the converse - it adds so much to the dimension of this country - not the flag, but the concept of rangatiratanga that is behind it. Transit is just wrong. Very wrong. It is about Maori belonging to a nation, a nation of belief systems, culture and experience. One they already know they belong to. All the flag represents is that nation, one that they are proud of, and rightly so.
It would be wonderful to see both flags flying on Waitangi Day - a day that is supposed to be used to celebrate the joining of two nations. It shouldnt be a squabble.

Paul F.
Absolutely not. Bowing down to these violent, intimidating radicals by our gutless Government is ridiculous and sad, and has been going on decades too long. It would represent all that is wrong with this PC-addled country. Their flag represents little more than a group of aggressive, lawless, lazy and anti-social misfits who do little else except bring shame to Maori like myself who actually stand on their own two feet and get on with life, make positive contributions to New Zealand society, and manage to successfully keep their kids off the streets. The New Zealand flag represents all.

Mary
It is a disgrace that the Harbour Bridge authority has refused the Maori Sovereignty group the right to fly their independence flag on the harbour bridge on Waitangi Day. If its good enough to fly the flags of other nations on Aucklands bridge on their national days, then whats the problem with raising the Maori flag to celebrate our nation? We are supposed to be a democratic, civilised and united country, but pathetic pettiness such as this is disgraceful and totally unacceptable. I sincerely hope Maori protest in this case. They have my absolute support.

Neill
Tariana Turia says we should "grow up" and she is right. And as part of that growing up we should abolish the Maori seats in Parliament. If they throw their weight behind the calls to abolish the Maori seats, then I see no reason why we cant fly the tino rangatiratanga flag on Waitangi Day. Perhaps the day that happens will be when we have all finally grown up!

Jesse
Yes I think we should fly the Maori flag and the NZ flag on Waitangi day regardless of wether or not the Maori flag is recognised. This is about the past and future of Aotearoa. What kind of example would we be setting for our kids denying the local Maori the respect they deserve by not flying their flag. I dont understand the fuss-This is about NZ so both flags should be up there this Waitangi day and for all to come!

Dan
The bridge flags should represent both treaty partners. If the Tino Rangatiratanga (Maori Flag) is themost representative then let it fly. It is more than a symbol of protest - it represents the Maori interpretation of the Treaty.

C Bache
The Maori flag stands for the separatist views of some of the many New Zealanders who can claim some Maori ancestry. In the context of the 1800s and the global exploration and colonisation that was being carried out by powerful nations , Maori were never going to be left in possession of these islands. No one alive today is responsible for the decision to colonise New Zealand, and the European settlers who were dumped here also suffered severe hardships as they struggled to survive and build a life. The hard work and sacrifices of many in those days - European and Maori, of later immigrants and the growing population from then until now, has built modern New Zealand. No other group expects reparation for their contributions, or apologies for their hardships.
Last night on television I heard a spokeswoman declare that we have to acknowledge a Maori nation and its flag. Surely Maori are a valued part of an existing nation , along with all of the rest of us whose ancestors arrived from all corners of the globe. The Maori flag offends me because of what it stands for.

Keith Brown
No.If we want to fly a flag, fly the New Zealand flag. It represents all New Zealanders.

Stacey
It shouldnt fly because the Aboriginal flag flew in Sydney. It should fly because its Waitangi Day.

R Jones
My vote is definitely no flag.

Tania
Yes, Out of respect for the people of the land the Tino Rangatira flag should fly.

Eileen Kapa
Wasnt the request for Waitangi day? The poll reads like maori want it flown there till the end of when?! Time, nice thought but it is a misleading question dont you think.

Nicola Easthope
Of course the Maori flag should be flown on Waitangi Day! Drop the antiquated, colonialistic thinking, Transit! Let's be proud of our bicultural nation.

P Dalton
I say let it fly. I dont understand why it seems so threatening to so many people. I agree with some of the other readers who submitted their own opinions on both sides of the issue, however my view is that as a young nation, our history is still in the making, and like it or not, were it not for the ruckus and noise that these radicals made in the 60s and 70s, we would not be the country that we are today. New Zealand today is a progressive country that is sincerely making efforts to rectify the mistakes of the past, while trying to find a secure place and future for all. Before the protestors came along, it was a state that denied Asians the right to immigrate, deported Pacific Islanders, and expected the Maori to become brown white people. Protest brings change, in many cases, changes for the better. I think Alberts comments comparing Maori and Aboriginals are rather insensitive and a tad ignorant, saying that Maori are better off than aboriginals as they have not been murdered, is like saying that someone who has been robbed, should be thankful they were not raped or killed. Oone is worse than the other, but neither are right. Celebrate Waitangi day in whatever way makes you happy or proud to be a New Zealander, but always be thankful that healthy, ongoing debate prevails, as opposed to guerilla and ethnic warfare that takes place in other countries where common sense and a healthy understanding of each other's problems breakdown. Have a barbie, go to the park with the kids, attend a hui if you want to. Just enjoy it.

B
Let their flag be shown. I grew up in Auckland Mangere. Dont forget who came and stole land, and who has their God given right to raise their flag. Grow up.

[[b]Submitted by Teanau