Australian Flag vs. New Zealand Flag — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Published on October 16, 2023
Australian Flag features the Union Jack, a large seven-pointed star, and the Southern Cross; New Zealand Flag has the Union Jack and a version of the Southern Cross with four red stars.
Difference Between Australian Flag and New Zealand Flag
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
Both the Australian Flag and the New Zealand Flag pay homage to their shared British colonial history by incorporating the Union Jack in their designs, but that's where the similarities largely end.
The Australian Flag prominently features a large seven-pointed star below the Union Jack known as the Commonwealth Star or Federation Star. This star represents the federation of states and territories of Australia. Additionally, the Australian Flag displays the Southern Cross constellation with five white stars.
In contrast, the New Zealand Flag showcases the Southern Cross constellation as well, but with only four red stars, each with a white edge. This design difference makes the stars on the New Zealand Flag distinct from those on the Australian Flag.
Furthermore, while the Australian Flag primarily uses blue, white, and red, the colors on the New Zealand Flag are more constrained, mainly using blue and red. Both flags are symbols of national pride and carry deep historical and cultural significance for their respective countries.
Comparison Chart
Union Jack Presence
Present in the upper left corner.
Present in the upper left corner.
ADVERTISEMENT
Stars' Representation
Features the Southern Cross with five white stars.
Features the Southern Cross with four red stars with white edges.
Additional Symbol
Has a large seven-pointed Commonwealth Star.
No additional prominent symbol beyond the Southern Cross.
Primary Colors
Blue, white, and red.
Blue and red.
Representation
Symbolizes Australia's federation and its location in the Southern Hemisphere.
Represents New Zealand's location and its British colonial history.
Compare with Definitions
Australian Flag
Symbolizes Australia's federation of states and territories.
The seven points of the star on the Australian Flag stand for the six states and one for the territories.
New Zealand Flag
Reflects New Zealand's British heritage and its position in the Southern Hemisphere.
The red stars on the New Zealand Flag are unique and representative of the nation.
Australian Flag
Showcases Australia's colonial ties and geographic location.
On Australia Day, citizens proudly display the Australian Flag.
New Zealand Flag
A blue field with red stars representing the Southern Cross.
The New Zealand Flag has four stars, unlike its Australian counterpart.
Australian Flag
A blue field with iconic star patterns.
The Australian Flag was hoisted high during international sports events.
New Zealand Flag
Symbol of pride for Kiwis worldwide.
New Zealanders overseas often display the New Zealand Flag to show their roots.
Australian Flag
Features the Union Jack and the Southern Cross.
Tourists often buy souvenirs with the Australian Flag printed on them.
New Zealand Flag
Features the Union Jack and the Southern Cross.
The design of the New Zealand Flag is distinct yet has similarities to some other flags.
Australian Flag
Represents Australia's national identity.
The Australian Flag fluttered proudly during the national day celebrations.
New Zealand Flag
Represents New Zealand's national identity.
The New Zealand Flag was raised during the national anthem.
Common Curiosities
Do both flags feature the Union Jack?
Yes, both the Australian Flag and the New Zealand Flag incorporate the Union Jack in their design.
Why do both flags have the Southern Cross?
The Southern Cross is a prominent constellation visible from both countries, symbolizing their location in the Southern Hemisphere.
What does the Commonwealth Star on the Australian Flag represent?
It represents the federation of the states and territories of Australia.
Are there movements to change either flag?
Yes, there have been discussions and even referendums, especially in New Zealand, about adopting a new flag design.
Are the flags often confused?
Yes, due to similarities, they are sometimes confused, especially by those unfamiliar with their specific details.
How many stars does the New Zealand Flag have?
The New Zealand Flag features four red stars representing the Southern Cross constellation.
Which flag was adopted first?
The Australian Flag was officially adopted in 1901, while the New Zealand Flag was adopted in 1902.
How many points does the Commonwealth Star have on the Australian Flag?
The Commonwealth Star on the Australian Flag has seven points.
Are there other flags similar to the New Zealand and Australian flags?
Yes, several flags, especially those from former British colonies, have designs that incorporate the Union Jack.
What colors are predominant in the New Zealand Flag?
The New Zealand Flag primarily uses blue and red.
Do the star patterns differ between the two flags?
Yes, the Australian Flag has five white stars for the Southern Cross, while the New Zealand Flag has four red stars.
Why do both flags have the Union Jack?
The Union Jack symbolizes both countries' shared British colonial history.
Is the New Zealand Flag's Southern Cross identical to Australia's?
No, the New Zealand Flag's stars are red with white edges, while Australia's are white.
Do both countries have other flags or symbols of national identity?
Yes, both countries have other flags, such as indigenous flags and ensigns, representing various aspects of their national identity.
What's the significance of the colors on the Australian Flag?
The colors primarily symbolize Australia's British heritage (Union Jack) and its location (Southern Cross on a blue field).
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
Permits vs. Licenses
Next Comparison
Hotmail vs. LiveAuthor Spotlight
Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
