Labour Party leader Andrew Little says former All Blacks captain Richie McCaw has a right to voice his view on the flag but should not be surprised to get some backlash.
McCaw wrote on his Facebook page that he supported a change of flag and got a torrent of criticism in return, as well as some support.
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McCaw is close to the Prime Minister and some of those criticising the rugby great said he was jumping on the "John Key gravy train".
The referendum to decide between the current flag and the alternative with a silver fern and southern cross begins on March 3.