A highly controversial flag installation at Hastings Art Gallery — which invited visitors to “please” walk on a New Zealand flag — has been stolen after a week of intense public backlash, generating 101 complaints, protests, and a two-year trespass notice for one man who kicked part of the exhibit.
Hastings District Council confirmed the theft, now under police investigation, as debate raged over Ōtaki artist Diane Prince’s work, which was previously removed from a Nelson gallery for staff safety concerns.
While critics said the artwork disrespected a symbol of national sacrifice, curators defended it as a longstanding piece intended to provoke dialogue about identity and protest.
Despite attempts by members of the public to replace the missing flag with their own versions, gallery staff say the stolen item will not be reinstated, but the wider exhibition will remain open until January.
Activist Diane Prince presents her ‘edgy art’ by inviting people to stomp on the New Zealand flag. This is being presented in a Nelson gallery which also alleges that it is a “safe space”. pic.twitter.com/38816TPIyz
— Elliot Page (@ElliotIkilei) May 24, 2025
I double dare the “edgy” fart sniffing art community to put up the same exhibit with a rainbow flag.
…or the maori flag.
An art whore with her clientele
I’ld like to put a photo of Diane then walk over it. NOW, THAT’S ART
Don’t know what all the fuss is about. Large numbers of globalist NZ politicians walk and wipe their fat backsides, on our nationalism, on a regular, if not daily basis. I’m sure a few extra boot prints, wont make much of a difference.