It's only a matter of time before the national flag is changed and New Zealand becomes a republic, writes Audrey Young.

Readers of nzherald.co.nz have been quick to speak out say on the flag debate, with the majority supporting the status quo.

Readers' suggestions for a new NZ flag, and some designs previously proposed.

Your Views on whether it's time to change the New Zealand flag.

We asked members of the New Zealand Order of Merit the question, "Is it time to change the flag?"

As the Herald begins a serious debate on the merits of changing the national flag, the consensus among the majority of our greatest living patriots is clear: It is time for a change.

New Zealand's flag says virtually nothing about how this country sees itself today and how it wishes to be seen.

Maori Party MP Hone Harawira's family reportedly planned to make money from the Govt's decision to allow the tino rangitiritanga flag to be flown on government buildings on Waitangi Day.

Flying the Maori flag should be a cause for celebration, not mean-spirited opposition, says outspoken Maori Party MP Hone Harawira.

The Labour Party has described the decision to fly the Tino Rangatiratanga flag as the official flag of Maoridom as "tokenism".

Cabinet has approved flying the tino rangatiratanga flag as the preferred Maori flag on Waitangi Day.