NEW ZEALAND FLAG INSTITUTE PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AUCKLAND 20 OCTOBER 2004
Anniversary of the New Zealand Flag this Saturday
This coming Saturday 23rd October sees the 135th anniversary of the New Zealand Flag. On that day in 1869 Governor Sir
George Bowen proclaimed what is now the New Zealand Flag as the official ensign for use on Government vessels. It's
nautical origins are reflected in the custom, which is followed by many to this day, of calling the flag an ensign.
We are privileged to have a national flag that is older than most. Only 14 countries have flags that have been in
continuous use for longer.
The New Zealand Flag Institute calls upon all New Zealander's to mark this historic anniversary by flying our national
flag with pride on Saturday 23rd October.
New Zealand Flag Institute
20th October 2004
Website: http://geocities.com/nzflaginstitute/
Contact: John Cox