Key wants flag referendum next year

Prime Minister-elect John Key has confirmed he will pursue one of his personal hobby horses during National's third term: changing New Zealand's flag.

"I'd like to complete the whole process next year. I don't think it's one of those things we want to hang around," the PM-elect told media.

In a speech at Victoria University last year, Mr Key said it was his belief that the design of the current flag symbolises a colonial and post-colonial era whose time has passed.

“I am proposing that we take one more step in the evolution of modern New Zealand by acknowledging our independence through a new flag,” he said.

He outlined a plan for a cross-party group of MPs to recommend the best referenda process, and a steering group to ensure the public has the opportunity to engage in discussion on the flag and to submit design ideas.

“It’s really important that consideration of a new flag includes genuine input from New Zealanders.  All voices need an opportunity to be heard,” he said..

“A flag that unites all New Zealanders should be selected by all New Zealanders.  This decision is bigger than party politics.”

Mr Key said he wants to give a clear assurance and commitment that retaining the current flag is a very possible outcome from the process, and there will be no presumption in favour of a change.

He said New Zealand retains a strong and important constitutional link with the monarchy that he did not see a groundswell of support to change.

“Our status as a constitutional monarchy continues to serve us well."

Mr Key said if relected, he would write to leaders of all political parties represented in Parliament asking them to nominate an MP to join a cross-party group to oversee the flag consideration process.

The group would recommend the best referenda process to follow, and also be involved in nominating New Zealanders from outside Parliament to form a steering group which would be primarily responsible for ensuring the public has the opportunity to engage in the debate.

“One of the tasks of that steering group will be to seek submissions from the public on flag designs," Mr Key said.