I'm gutted about this result.
As a long time Labour voter, I was willing to overlook the Key and cost elements, both of which did not sit well with me. I just wanted a change. One which would remove the Union Jack and not have our flag mistaken for any other when it flew at world events. I wanted a true Kiwi flag.
When the NZ team walk into the arena a Rio with that old fashioned, colonial, relic of the British Empire, Australian lookalike, monstrosity leading the way, I shall have to leave the room.
I don't think there will be another shot at this. The risks are not worth it for whichever politician promotes the change.