Flag Referendum 2: First ad – ‘It’s Time to Decide’

Above is first TV ad for the second (and final) NZ Flag Referendum. “The people of New Zealand have a unique opportunity to decide the future of our flag,” it says. The new ad is very similar to the ad for the first referendum, but, obviously, with only the two final designs and different narration.

I saw the ad on TV about a week ago, but it wasn’t posted on YouTube until February 10, and I didn't see that until this weekend—but then I forgot to share it here. There’s been a lot going on!

When I first saw the ad, I was a little disappointed. I don’t what I expected, but something different. Since then, however, I’ve thought about it and realised that keeping the ads similar is the best way to stay neutral, as this ad should be.

Still to come will be ads from the Electoral Commission promoting “register to vote” (I’m assuming they’ll run those), plus ads telling people how to vote, what the deadlines are, and so on. Basically, the same as for the first referendum, but updated.

I have no idea whether there will be any independent campaign ads; certainly I haven't head that any groups are saying they plan to advertise, but that doesn’t mean that none will, of course. With the current flag well out in front in the polls, I doubt that opponents of change will see any need to advertise. I also don't know that anyone feels strongly enough about changing the flag to organise—and pay for—an ad campaign. Maybe there will be newspaper ads, though I’m unlikely to see them unless someone shares them on social media.

Voting in the final Flag Referendum will be by postal ballot and conducted March 3 to 24.

I’m voting for change.