New Zealand has been missed off a representation of the world map at the Olympic Games closing ceremony.
Not even a record-setting gold medal haul and an 11th placing on the medal table seems to be enough to warrant the inclusion of Aotearoa on the literal world stage.
A glowing, abstract outline of the world lit up Stade de France as the lights went out in the stadium.
The map managed to fit in many of the world’s nations, but the ocean next to Australia was blank.
Countries of a similar size to New Zealand such as the United Kingdom and Japan are visible.
The exclusion of New Zealand on world maps is not a new phenomenon.
In 2018, then-Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern appeared in a video with comedian Rhys Darby imploring that the country not be missed on world maps.
Dame Lisa Carrington and Finn Butcher were New Zealand’s flag bearers at the closing ceremony.
Carrington has earned three gold medals for New Zealand this Games, extending her record as the country’s most successful Olympian, while Butcher made history as the first ever men’s kayak cross gold medallist.
Los Angeles will be taking on hosting duties for the Summer Games in 2028. (Source: 1News)
