[Ab]

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/opinion/ne...ectid=11506892

The silver fern is unique in two ways: the colour of its reverse side and its botanical divisions (pinnates).

A silver fern has three degrees of scale - its branches, leaves and leaflets - each containing a similar shape but in different proportions. Those closely grouped pinna are almost symmetrical.

Maori marvelled at the artistry of nature in the silver fern. The maturing and unfurling fern has been adapted in wood carvings as a koru.

The huia's black, white-tipped feather is a symbol of rank and mana.

If we are to recognise our history and use national symbols, we ought to get them right. Kyle Lockwood's silver fern is a generic, two-divisional plant fern that can be found on every continent.

I can understand various representative bodies adapting the silver fern for their brand. I saw a silver fern shape made out of oars to represent a national rowing team, which is understandable. But having a silver fern design on a national flag that bears little resemblance to an actual silver fern is just sloppy.