What is it that first comes to mind when you think of New Zealand? Is it the enormous amount of sheep? Is it the picturesque Milford Sound that perfectly captures the natural beauty of New Zealand? Or perhaps it is the All Blacks that immediately cross your mind when this neighbouring country is mentioned?
It is the silver fern that is most recognised and associated with the Kiwi’s and their nation. The silver fern is native to New Zealand, where it acts a symbol of inspiration, strength and power for citizens. (https://media.newzealand.com/en/story-ideas/new-zealand-icon-silver-fern/) I can almost guarantee you have seen this silver fern on New Zealand’s sports teams and army forces, further highlighting its significance and #power. Yes, but “why the silver fern?” you may ask. Well let me just give you a short history lesson. It is believed that the silver fern used to live in the ocean and was invited to live on the land to play a significant role in leading the Maori population. These people would then use the silver underneath the fern leaves as light, where it would catch the moonlight and create a path through the dark forest.(https://www.tepapa.govt.nz/discoverhttps://www.tepapa.govt.nz/sites/default/files/cyathea_dealbata_otari4_edit-small.jpg-collections/read-watch-play/maori/significance-silver-fern)
Some may however say that tourism and commercialisation have perhaps altered the image and perception of this symbol, where its history is often overlooked and ignored. Let me guess… you don’t know the story behind the silver fern, either right? Don’t worry, you’re not in the minority. Even I must admit…. I may or may not have had to google a brief history of this symbol, despite visiting the country twice.
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