New Zealand’s
Silver Fern
The story behind the fern
For generations, the fern has carried meaning in New Zealand. Māori used the pale underside of the fern leaf to help guide people through the bush at night. Over time, the Silver Fern was adopted by the military, by sporting teams, and by business - becoming a unifying national symbol.
MĀORI INGENUITY
Māori used the fern leaf’s pale underside to guide their way in the bush.
SPORTING greats
The Silver Fern became a proud symbol worn by New Zealand teams on the world stage.
Photo by Mike O’Neill. Te Papa. Courtesy of New Zealand Rugby.
HONOUR
The fern has long appeared in military contexts, marking identity, service, and belonging.
Te Papa (GH017819/7)
COAT OF ARMS
New Zealand’s coat of arms shows the fern among official national emblems.
NATIONal SYMBOL
Over time, the fern became a shared symbol that unites New Zealanders.
MARK OF TRUST
Today, the fern can also appear as the FernMark - signalling trusted New Zealand origin.
Speaker Name
What is the FernMark?
Registered in over 45 jurisdictions, the FernMark is recognised by 44% of consumers in key markets.
