New Zealand Olympians have been wearing the silver fern for more than 100 years. From 1908 in London when New Zealander Harry Kerr received our first medal, to Antwerp 1920 where the emblem was sewn onto team hats and to 1952 in Oslo where our first Winter Olympians were, in the word of Sir Roy McKenzie “given black sweaters and had silver fern patches to sew on…”, the fern has represented our sporting hopes and dreams.

The fern has great standing in Maori tradition as it both nurtures and protects. An ideal symbol for the New Zealand Olympic Team, the fern inspires growth.

Now, we’re preparing the New Zealand Olympic Winter Team to Vancouver 2010. A symbol unique to this team has been created.

Incorporating the mountain landscapes of both Canada and Aotearoa and strong references to the feather used in both Maori and Canadian First Nation traditions, the Winter Fern represents peace, power and prestige.

Balance and teamwork are also represented through the triangular shape traditional in Maori battle formation and the striking black and white colour palette.

Created by artists Rangi of Te Kaahui Maunga and Julie Kipa of Ngai te Rangi, the Winter Fern brings the Olympic team together in a spirit of friendship, respect and excellence.

New Zealand athletes wear the fern with pride and honour.

The Feather as a Symbol

In Maori tradition, feathers are chiefly symbols and were hand-woven into cloaks and other items of clothing to symbolise the mana of the wearer. Native bird feathers are used most formal of ceremonies and in the traditions of Parihaka, the feather signifies the pursuit of peace.

The New Zealand Olympic team incorporates the raukura into its tradition with our cloak or kakahu known as Te Mahutonga (Southern Cross) being worn by flagbearers at the Opening Ceremonies of summer and winter Olympic Games.

In native northwest American Indian culture the feather of the eagle has special significance. The eagle is a symbol of power, leadership and wisdom. Its feathers represent peace and friendship and are a symbol of good luck. Like the raukura or feather in Maori tradition, the eagle feather is used in clothing, ritual and ceremonies.