I enjoyed Rogers' Rabbits' tongue in cheek take on New Zealand's fl ag debate and quite see why a transparent one would work very well for all the wrong reasons !

I listened to a military historian on this topic and he made it very clear that the design of a flag is a whole lot more than the popular opinion, the colour, the marketing of the country, modern catchy images, the sports symbols etc.

He was also very clear anything that looks like a white feather from a distance - ie Silver Fern - speaks volumes of cowardice and surrender.

A flag flying a white feather...Mmmm. He explained the need for deep historical values, portrayals of solid beliefs and sacrifice, greatest and deepest strengths and passion for our country, hope for a future of freedom.

When asked to stand up for the flag and all it signifi es we may be asked to fi ght and die for what is represented.

I think Dan Maguire's submission goes a long way towards that – just not white for the ‘fern'. His design would truly mean we have never forgotten those - wherever they are - who made it possible for us to be free and live in a place so worth defending on every front, forever.

No matter where it flew, people would be stirred, remember them, be so thankful for our freedoms and futures.

It's pictorial impact ‘gets you there' in an instant. Well that's what I think.

Heather Loughlin, Tauranga City