Iwi in no hurry to change flag

The leaders of three of the country's iwi believe there is little urgency for a change in the flag, but have called for dialogue with Maori if it is going to happen.

Tainui chairman Kingi Porima said although he was not aware of a strong push within Maori to change the flag, he was not opposed to the idea.

"The New Zealand flag is all right. If I was given the option I would probably go with another design, perhaps including the silver fern or the koru."

Mr Porima was responding to a call this week from a number of leading New Zealanders for a change.

Dame Catherine Tizard is among the group trying to collect the 300,000-odd signatures needed to force a referendum on the subject.

Mr Porima said it would be important that any new design included Maori elements, to highlight the unique cultural features of our country.

But he was not in favour of the removal of the Union Jack.

"Some of my ancestors are from England. The Union Jack highlights the relationship between colonists and Maori - both good and bad. It also reminds us of the Treaty of Waitangi."

Mr Porima favoured a national debate on the issue, where "if the people favoured change then so be it. If not leave it there."

Although many Maori have taken to hoisting the red, black and white tino rangatira flag, prominent at last year's foreshore and seabed hikoi, Mr Porima said it was unsuitable as a national flag because it represented only Maori.

Ngati Whatua o Orakei chairman Sir Hugh Kawharu said he would need to see a new design before deciding if it was time for a change.

"If people are genuine about a change, they should put up some options."

Ngai Tahu chairman Mark Solomon said he saw no need for a change.

"I am quite happy with the flag we have.

"I can accept the Union Jack shows a bit of a link towards England, but the Southern Cross - yes, that's part of us.

"You will have those who want a change and those who are happy the way it is."