I have been reflecting on the flag designs using frond and koru forms and thinking back to Hundertwasser's 1983 koru flag (see 'Flags we Like' section of this site). Many cultures use the spiral to represent the cycle of life but there is a subtle distinction about the Polynesian approach. It's about giving the ambiguity of background and foreground - an aspect of the art that Gordon Walters explored and refined.
This double spiral design seeks to capture the essence of our distinct depiction of this universal idea of integrated diversity, growing from a strong centre and learning from the past as we build our future. It can also represent what I call the 'cross-cultural conversation' that creates us. I favour the black and white version as the national flag (why not stand out in the crowd?). The green and silver version (the colours of the silver fern) achieves what Hundertwasser might have got to had he looked more closely at the indigenous art of New Zealand. The red and black version may be preferred by those wishing to emphasise the Maori culture.
Most importantly I believe this design achieves the simplicity and energy required of a flag. It avoids being illustrative or becoming a logo. It is flaggish, celebratory and refreshingly original. I reckon it will look great when its all of a flutter.
Michael Smythe
February 2005