New Zealand Corps 2
Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps
The need for a separate New Zealand Ordnance organisation was identified as far back as 1907, but tentative steps were only taken in 1913 by training individuals at Territorial Camps with the required skills.
With the outbreak of WW1, these individuals were deployed within the 1st NZEF at Ordnance Depots, and later they became the founding members of the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps, which was established from March 1915.
At home, in New Zealand, a New Zealand Army Ordnance Department (consisting of Commissioned Officers) and the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps (consisting of Warrant Officers, NCO's and Men) existed from early 1917.
They wore different Cap and Collar badges from their overseas serving comrades.
With the outbreak of WW1, these individuals were deployed within the 1st NZEF at Ordnance Depots, and later they became the founding members of the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps, which was established from March 1915.
At home, in New Zealand, a New Zealand Army Ordnance Department (consisting of Commissioned Officers) and the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps (consisting of Warrant Officers, NCO's and Men) existed from early 1917.
They wore different Cap and Collar badges from their overseas serving comrades.
New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps Overseas Worn Badge.
- Above: A early New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps Cap and Collar badge set, worn oversea by members of the 1st NZEF from 1917. All three have a "NZ" brazed to top. No maker mark, but looks to be "Gaunt" manufacture This badge was based on the British version and was worn until members returned home from WW1. It was then briefly "reissued" in 1937 until the new pattern of badge arrived from the UK.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. All have the small plaque to back to "J R Gaunt, London" and copper looped lugs.
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- Above Left: A locally made Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps.
- Above Right: A Mayer and Keane, of Wellington (M & K,W) maker marked Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. |
- Above Left: A sand cast Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Cast integrated lugs to back.
- Above Right: A gilt brass, single piece Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Only differing feature is the short copper looped lugs to back. This version always appears very worn. |
New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps Home Service Badge.
- Above: A scarce, 1917 pattern, New Zealand worn only, Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Department. Its maker mark to back to "C M Bay" and has two wire looped lugs to back.
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- Above: A similar Cap badge in copper to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Department. No maker, with two hex type copper lugs to back. This badge is thinly struck.
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- Opposite Left: A gilt brass, fixed shank, 25mm button to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Department. It has a maker mark of "Hobson & Sons, London".
- Opposite Center: A gilt brass, fixed shank, 18mm button to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Department. It has a maker mark of "Extra Superb".
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass, fixed shank 12mm hat button to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Department. No maker mark to back.
- Opposite Center: A gilt brass, fixed shank, 18mm button to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Department. It has a maker mark of "Extra Superb".
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass, fixed shank 12mm hat button to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Department. No maker mark to back.
The New Zealand Army Ordnance Department was absorbed into the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps in 1924.
- Opposite: The 1917 pattern, gilt brass Cap and Collar badge set, manufactured in New Zealand and worn only for home service by Other Ranks, to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Gilt brass (now dulled with age), with brass hex lugs to back. This 1917 patterned badge continued to be worn after WW1 and until 1937 within New Zealand. In that year, apparently all stocks of the Cap badge had been used, and permission was sort for the men to wear the above, overseas 1st NZEF version of the badge until the 1937 pattern of the badge were available.
- Above: A pair of WW1 era shoulder titles to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London". Both have a brass hex type lug to back.
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- Above: A pair of WW1 era shoulder titles to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Locally made, with thin hex type brass lugs to back. Not maker marked.
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- Opposite Left: A 24mm, gilt brass button to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Maker marked to back to "Firmin, London".
- Opposite Center: A 17mm, gilt brass button to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Maker marked to back to "Firmin, London".
- Opposite Right: A 12mm, gilt brass button to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Maker marked to back to "Firmin, London".
- Opposite Center: A 17mm, gilt brass button to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Maker marked to back to "Firmin, London".
- Opposite Right: A 12mm, gilt brass button to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Maker marked to back to "Firmin, London".
- Above: A Cap and Collar badge set in gilt brass in the pattern adopted by the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps in 1937. During WW2, all overseas serving personnel wore the generic New Zealand Onwards badge, with the NZ Army Ordnance Corps being no exception. The design is based on the British style badge at the time, but with "New Zealand" and "Army Ordnance Corps" in the circular central wreath.
This badge was short-lived and is rare, as in 1947, the Corps was awarded the prefix "Royal" to their Corps' title, and bought another change in their badge. All have looped lugs to back and are not maker marked. |
- Above: A variation to this rare badge, with a slider to the back of this Cap badge.
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- Above: A post 1947 gilt fired brass, enamel and Silver (marked S to back) Cap and Collar set to the Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Note the addition of the Latin motto to center wreath, and the move of "N" and "Z" to above the bottom banner. All are impressed to "J R Gaunt, London" to back. Note the collars have opposing Cannons to center.
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- Above: A other ranks, gilt brass Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps Cap badge. This has a slider to back, but no maker mark.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap and Collar badge other ranks set to the Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Note the collars are opposing, with cannon to center, opposing each other. No maker mark. The lugs to the Cap badge are in a North/South config.
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- Above: A 17mm, gilt bass shoulder strap button, with sew in footing, and screw bolt to back to the Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps with Kings crown. Maker marked to back of button to "Gaunt, London".
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- Above: Trade badges in brass and a coppery bronze (right) for a Artificer. This badge was worn by both NZ Artillery and Army Ordnance Corps early on. By 1929 all Artificers were part of the NZ Army Ordnance Corps.
- Opposite: A Artificer Trade patch in Cloth and embroidered thread, circa WW2. |
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With the passing of the King in 1952, and Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, the badge changed again, with the new Queens crown.
- Above: A gilt fired brass and silver plate (not marked) Cap and Collar set to the Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Note the collars are opposing, with cannons facing to center. |
- Above: A two piece, brass backed, enamel and anodised aluminium Cap and Collar badge set to the Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. All have long pins to back and the letter "T" stamped. Note the collars are opposing, with cannons facing to center.
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- Above: A Variation on the Cap and Collars of the R.N.Z.A.O.C. To center is a single piece two tone Cap badge, in anodised aluminium. It has two long pins to back. These badges are actually hard to get in good condition, as you mainly find the pins have bust off the back. Either side are single piece, two tone, anodised aluminium Collars to the R.N.Z.A.O.C. Pins also to back. Note Cannon to center are opposing.
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- Above Left: A gold tone, fixed shank, 25mm anodised aluminium button to the R.N.Z.A.O.C. Brass backed, with the maker marked of "Firmin, London".
- Above Right: A gold tone, fixed shank 17mm anodised aluminium button to the R.N.Z.A.O.C. Brass backed, with the maker marked of "Firmin, London". |
- Above: A Queens Crown, other ranks Belt buckle to the Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. A separate Cap badge sized badge to center, made from gilt metal and resin. To back are two looped lugs, held to buckle plate by a pin and leather washers. No maker mark.
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- Above: Cloth shoulder title to the Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. The bottom is a a later style shoulder title with embroidered border.
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The R.N.Z.A.O.C. was absorbed into the Royal New Zealand Logistics Regiment on 9th December 1996.
NZ School of Musketry
During WW1, a specialised School of Musketry was set up to establish a standard in Rifle Expertise amongst the Reinforcements.
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- Opposite: A Officers gilt brass Cap badge to the NZ School of Musketry. This is the void type of Cap badge, with a non-void variation also seen. Copper wire looped lugs to back.
- Above: A Officers gilt Collar badge pair to the NZ School of Musketry. Either wire looped lugs or flat brass hex type to back. |
- Opposite: A pair of Collar badges worn by ordinary ranks in the NZ School of Musketry. The Cap badge is just a larger version of these two badges.
All are single piece, gilt brass, with two copper wire looped lugs to back.
No maker mark.
All are single piece, gilt brass, with two copper wire looped lugs to back.
No maker mark.
New Zealand Maori Pioneer Battalion
On the 20th of Feb 1916, the New Zealand Maori Pioneer Battalion was formed and in April 1916 it left for France.
The Battalion was disbanded in New Zealand in April 1919.
There are 4 types or styles of badge the Battalion wore from 1916 to 1919.
The Battalion was disbanded in New Zealand in April 1919.
There are 4 types or styles of badge the Battalion wore from 1916 to 1919.
- Above: A scarce 1st type collar badge to the Battalion, which were made in New Zealand. They have the smaller "N.Z.N.C" or New Zealand Native Corps at the Base. Some badges have been found with the mark of "Watts, Auckland".
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- Above: A 2nd type of Cap or Collar badges (worn as either) to the New Zealand Native Corps in Bronze, with the larger N.Z.N.C. to base. They have distinct copper wire lugs to back, which appear to be the tops of the split or cotter pin used to hold a badge to a uniform/hat.
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- Above: A 2nd type of Cap or Collar badges (worn as either) to the New Zealand Native Corps in gilt brass, with the larger N.Z.N.C. to base. Three different types. Left is die stamped brass with both lugs gone, and a single wire loop soldered messily to back. Middle has a brooch fitting to back, and Right is sandcast, with two copper looped lugs.
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- Above: A cast bronze collar badge in the form of the 3rd type of badge to the New Zealand Pioneer Battalion, with necklace removed. Note this badge has two tangs or blades to its solid back. No maker mark.
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- Opposite and Above: The 3rd Type of Cap and Collar badge to the New Zealand Pioneer Battalion. Note this badge is widely faked, and taken from dies used by the British firm Firmin. The three have either copper looped lugs (to the Cap) or D shaped Copper lugs (to the collars). All have a maker plaque to "J R Gaunt London".
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- Opposite and Above: The 3rd Type of Cap and Collar badge to the New Zealand Pioneer Battalion again. Note the necklace has been removed. Maori tradition does not permit a Warrior to wear jewellery into battle, so they modified the badge in the field by removing the necklace just below the Warriors head. All three badges are made by "J R Gaunt London".
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- Above: A gilt brass Collar badge pair to the New Zealand Pioneer Battalion. Both have had their necklaces removed and are not maker marked. Both have two copper D shaped looped lugs to back. Possible Gaunt made.
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- Above: The 4th Type of Cap or Collar (worn as either) to the New Zealand Maori Pioneer Battalion in gilt brass. This was the last type, and worn home to NZ when the Battalion was disbanded in 1919. Note the base of the badge just has the large letters "N.Z." to base. All three have D shaped copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Opposite: During WW1 the Cook Island Company was formed and sailed for service in the middle East. There has yet to be any recorded pictures that the opposite badge was worn at the time. Its felt that this badge was issued to WW2 Raratongan Home Guard Units. It comes with matching collars, though they are very rare. Note the banner with "Cook Is Coy". Two copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. |
- Above: A early set of Shoulder titles to the New Zealand Native Corps (N.Z.N.C.). Both are gilt brass and are impressed to back to "J R Gaunt, London".
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- Above: A brass trade badge for a Pioneer. Crossed Axes. This badge also come with its circular backing plate and would sit on the Soldiers Sleeve.
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Royal New Zealand Military Police
The New Zealand Military Police was first formed in 1915, but was disbanded at the conclusion of WW1. It then reformed again at the start of WW2, but was replaced by Provost Companies in 1946.
The New Zealand Provost Corps was then formed on the 18th of Feb 1949, with the Corps gaining the prefix "Royal" on the 18th of July 1952.
The New Zealand Provost Corps was then formed on the 18th of Feb 1949, with the Corps gaining the prefix "Royal" on the 18th of July 1952.
- Above: A single piece, gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Military Police. Not marked, but thin twisted copper wire lugs to back, which are found on a number of other WW1 New Zealand made badges.
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- Above: A matching pair of Collar badges to the New Zealand Military Police. These are the same design as the Cap badge, but with the lower banner removed or cut off. Both have two hex type brass flat lugs to back. No maker mark and likely WW1.
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Two of the largest training camps during WW1 had their own Camp Military Police Force.
- Above and Opposite: A bi-metal Cap and Collar badge to Trentham Camp Military Police. All have Copper wire lugs to back. No maker mark to either. |
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- Above and Opposite: A bi-metal Cap and Collar badge to Featherston Camp Military Police. All have hex type brass lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above Left: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Military Police. Two thick copper looped lugs to back and a mark mark of "M & K, W" for Mayer & Kean, Wellington. This would likely be the WW2 version of the badge.
- Above Right: A chromed Cap badge to the New Zealand Military Police. Like the Gilt brass version, it has a maker mark of "M & K, W" and two Copper looped lugs. |
- Above: A pair of brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Military Police. These are just modified N.Z.M.R (New Zealand Mounted Rifles) titles, with the foot of the "R" removed.
Both have hex type brass lugs to back and are maker impressed to "J R Gaunt, London". |
- Opposite: A brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Military Police. Like the above curved examples, this is just a modified N.Z.M.R (New Zealand Mounted Rifles) titles, with the foot of the "R" removed.
It has two D shaped copper loops to back, with no maker mark.
It has two D shaped copper loops to back, with no maker mark.
Note: The above version of the New Zealand Military Police Badges are widely faked, and has been for a number of years, both the Cap and Collar.
A commemorative box set of badges were also produced by the Corps which can confuse what its original and what is not.
A commemorative box set of badges were also produced by the Corps which can confuse what its original and what is not.
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- Above & Opposite: A early post 1952 Cap and Collar set in Silver plate (Cap) and frosted Silver (Collars, but not hallmarked) to the Royal New Zealand Provost Corps. No badge is maker marked, and all have looped lugs to back.
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- Opposite Bottom: A anodised aluminium staybrite Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Provost Corps. This badge as looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
- Opposite Middle Row & Bottom: A anodised aluminium staybrite Cap and Collar set to the Royal New Zealand Provost Corps. Pins and clutches to back. The Cap badge is maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London".
- Opposite Middle Row & Bottom: A anodised aluminium staybrite Cap and Collar set to the Royal New Zealand Provost Corps. Pins and clutches to back. The Cap badge is maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London".
This is the current version of the cap badge now worn. The title was changed again in the 1980's to Royal New Zealand Military Police.
- Center A chromed metal and blue resin Cap badge with two screw fittings to back and the maker mark of "Mayer Toye Ltd, Wellington". - Left & Right: Two chromed metal and blue resin Collar badges to the Royal New Zealand Military Police. No maker mark. |
- Above Left: A belt buckle center to the Royal New Zealand Military Police. No maker mark.
- Above Right: A chromed metal and blue resin Cap badge with a bar fitting to back and the maker mark of "Mayer & Toye WGTN NZ" and their phone number. |
- Above: A Officers bullion thread and cloth Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Military Police. No maker mark to back.
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- Above Top and Middle: Cloth shoulder titles to the Royal New Zealand Provost Corps. Gold letters on a dark blue background. Note the top is faded.
- Above Bottom: A cloth shoulder title to the Royal New Zealand Military Police. White letters on a blue background. |
- Opposite Top: A earlier puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the Royal New Zealand Provost Corps. Dark Blue/Dark Blue/Dark Blue. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "7 1/4".
- Opposite Base: A modern puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the Royal New Zealand Provost Corps. Note the wider Dark Blue/Dark Blue/Dark Blue cloth bands. Two holes through the front where a Cap badge was attached. Marked to inside in pen to "54" (in centimeters) .
- Opposite Base: A modern puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the Royal New Zealand Provost Corps. Note the wider Dark Blue/Dark Blue/Dark Blue cloth bands. Two holes through the front where a Cap badge was attached. Marked to inside in pen to "54" (in centimeters) .
New Zealand Women's National Service Corps
Formed during WW2 in 1941, the New Zealand Women's National Service Corps was set up to assist and provide recruitment to the New Zealand Army of typists, drivers and cooks. It became part of the New Zealand Army Service corps in 1942.
- Opposite: A scarce gilt brass cap badge to the New Zealand Women's National Service Corps (W.N.S.C).
No maker mark and with two copper loops to back.
- Opposite: A scarce gilt brass cap badge to the New Zealand Women's National Service Corps (W.N.S.C).
No maker mark and with two copper loops to back.
New Zealand Women's Land Corps/Service
In 1941 the New Zealand Women's Land Corps was formed by the New Zealand Women's War Service Auxiliary. They changed their title to New Zealand Women's Land Service in late 1942.
The service was disbanded at the end of WW2.
The service was disbanded at the end of WW2.
- Above Left: A gilt brass blouse badge, with broach fitting to back to the New Zealand Women's Land Service as issued.
Above Right: A gilt brass Cap badge, with lugs to back to the New Zealand Women's Land Service as issued. |
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- Opposite: Early Land Service titles in light blue embroidered letters on a brown background, with a lighter brown border.
New Zealand Women's Royal Army Corps
The New Zealand Women's Auxiliary Army Corps formed in July 1942, and became a Corps of the regular New Zealand Army in 1947.
- Above: A gilt brass cap badge to the New Zealand Women's Auxiliary Army Corps (W.A.A.C). Maker marked to lower back, left to "M & K, W" or Mayer & Kean, Wellington. No collars appear to be issued with this badge.
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- Above: In 1952, the Corps was awarded the prefix "Royal" to their title, and at some stage the commissioned badge from Stokes & Sons of Melbourne. This is the two piece, other ranks Cap badge to the New Zealand Women's Royal Army Corps. Maker marked to "Stokes Melb" to back.
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- Above: A rare Officers gilt fired brass, Silver and enamel Cap badge to the New Zealand Women's Royal Army Corps. It is maker marked to "Stokes Melb" to back.
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- Above: A rare Officers opposing gilt fired brass, Silver and enamel Collar set to the New Zealand Women's Royal Army Corps. Both are not maker marked, and have lugs in a North/South config, with the loops twisted so that the openings are to the side. A feature more common on a Australian Army Cap/Collar.
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- Above: A anodised aluminium staybrite Cap badge, note only 2 tone, with the green missing from central wreath. Separate Tui is again attached to center. No maker mark and pins and clutches to back.
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- Above: A pair of opposing anodised aluminium staybrite Collar badges to the New Zealand Women's Royal Army Corps. They are both single piece, three tone, with pins and clutches to back. Both are maker marked to "J R Gaunt London".
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- Above: A anodised aluminium staybrite Cap and Collar badge to the New Zealand Women's Royal Army Corps. Both are three tone, with the Collar a single piece, and Cap 2 piece, with separate Tui applied to center.
Both have looped lugs to back, and the collar is maker marked to "J R Gaunt London. |
- Above: A gilt tone, anodised aluminium 26mm button to the New Zealand Women's Royal Army Corps. Queens crown, it is maker marked to "Gaunt, London" to back, with fixed shank.
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- Opposite Top: A early cloth shoulder title to the New Zealand Womens Royal Army Corps. Tartan Green letters on a Beech Brown felt background.
- Opposite Middle and Bottom: Two cloth shoulder title to the New Zealand Womens Royal Army Corps. Just slight variation in lettering size between them, with white letters on a Tartan green/black felt background.
In July 1977, the corps was disbanded and all personnel were transferred to other parts of the New Zealand Defense Force.
- Opposite Middle and Bottom: Two cloth shoulder title to the New Zealand Womens Royal Army Corps. Just slight variation in lettering size between them, with white letters on a Tartan green/black felt background.
In July 1977, the corps was disbanded and all personnel were transferred to other parts of the New Zealand Defense Force.
Services Vegetable Production
The New Zealand Government recognised by early 1942 that vegetables would have to be grown on a massive scale if the American and New Zealand troops serving in the Pacific war were to be properly fed.
When the government's Services' Vegetable Production Scheme came into force in July 1942, growers undertook to produce huge quantities of vegetables, with State farms also being established to meet any shortfall.
The scheme was shut down in 1945 as hostilities ceased.
- Opposite: A gilt brass badge to the Services Vegetable Production (SVP). This badge is brooched to back, but the one or two other examples I have seen of this badge, also have copper looped lugs, in a North/South config, which begs the question whether they came in two types, brooched or lugged.
Maker marked to back to "M & K, W" or Mayer and Kean, Wellington.
When the government's Services' Vegetable Production Scheme came into force in July 1942, growers undertook to produce huge quantities of vegetables, with State farms also being established to meet any shortfall.
The scheme was shut down in 1945 as hostilities ceased.
- Opposite: A gilt brass badge to the Services Vegetable Production (SVP). This badge is brooched to back, but the one or two other examples I have seen of this badge, also have copper looped lugs, in a North/South config, which begs the question whether they came in two types, brooched or lugged.
Maker marked to back to "M & K, W" or Mayer and Kean, Wellington.
Royal New Zealand Corps of Signals
The New Zealand Corps of Signals form in 1912 from companies withing the New Zealand Engineers. It amalgamated with the New Zealand Post and Telegraph Corps on the 1st of June 1921.
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- Opposite and Above: Prior to WW1 a large, die stamped oversized badge was worn by some companies of the New Zealand Corps of Signals. Opposite is the oversize Cap badge in gilt brass. Note the ball missing to lower right, which seems to be a die fault, and I have seen a handful of these badges with the same missing tip. Above are what are termed as "rough" type Collar badges (which are actually later Cap badge in size). All three badges are not maker marked. All have thin copper loops to back.
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- Opposite and Above: A darkened copper set of Cap and Collar badges to the New Zealand Corps of Signals. All are semi-solid to back and maker marked to back. The Cap has "Stokes & Sons Melbourne", while the Collars just have "Stokes & Sons Melb". They all have rounded copper loops to back.
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- Opposite and Above: A gilt set of Cap and Collar badges to the New Zealand Corps of Signals. All are semi-solid to back and maker marked to back. The Cap has "Stokes & Sons Melbourne", while the Collars just have "Stokes & Sons Melb". They all have rounded copper loops to back.
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- Opposite and Above: A gilt brass, die stamped set of Cap and Collar badges to the New Zealand Corps of Signals. All have D shaped copper looped lugs to back, and the maker plaque of "J R Gaunt London".
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- Above: A study in size of the New Zealand Corps of Signals Badges. Left is the oversized, pre-WW1 Cap badge roughly 51mm by 42mm. Center is a standard Cap badge roughly 41mm by 32mm. Right is a standard Collar badge roughly 31mm by 25mm.
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- Above: A unmarked gilt brass Collar badge set to the New Zealand Corps of Signals. D shaped copper looped lugs to back, so likely a unmarked Gaunt made pair.
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- Above Left: Prior and early in WW1 the NZ Corps of Signals wore the British "Signal Service" Shoulder title. Opposite are two examples of such a title.
- Above Right: A pair of gilt brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Corps of Signals (N.Z.C.S). They have hex type lugs to back and are not maker marked. |
Around WW2, New Zealand adopted the British pattern of Signals Corps Cap and Collar badge.
- Above: A scarce gilt fired, solid backed and silver center (not marked) Cap and Collar badge to the New Zealand Corps of Signals. Copper looped lugs to back, no maker mark. |
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- Opposite & Above: A other ranks gilt brass and white metal Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Corps of Signals. All have copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
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- Above: A variation on the New Zealand Corps of Signals Cap and Collar badge in darkened finish. Note the Cap has a slider to back. No maker marks to either.
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- Above: A gilt brass and white metal Cap badge to the New Zealand Corps of Signals. Long brass slider to back, but no maker mark.
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In 1947, the Corps was awarded the prefix "Royal", and this meant a change in title and badge. Again, the UK pattern of badge was adopted by the Corps.
- Above: A selection of Cap badges to the Royal New Zealand Signal Corps.
- Left: A well polished bronze and silver Cap badge with kings Crown, which has a hex lug to back. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt London". - Middle: A gilt fired brass and silver (marked "S" to back) Cap badge with lugs to badge and tangs to the back of the Kings Crown. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London". - Right: A unmarked Cap badge in brass and white metal, both pieces have lugs to back. |
Post 1952, the crown was updated on the Cap badge to reflect the change in monarch. One thing to note with these badges, is that they are exactly like the UK pattern except for the addition of the lower scroll. On some of the early Gaunt versions, the lower scroll has been separately added, to what would have been a British Royal Signals Badge.
- Above: A gilt fired brass and silver Cap and collar badge set to the Royal New Zealand Signal Corps. All are marked "S" for Silver to back, and all have the maker mark of "J R Gaunt, London". |
- Above: A set of anodised aluminium staybrite Cap badge and collars to the Royal New Zealand Corps of Signals. No maker mark to back and come either with lugs or pins. Not a great badge in terms of wear or to collect as they are rather fragile and break either on the pins to back or on the leg in the center.
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- Above: A Officers bullion and cloth Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Corps of Signals.
No maker mark to back. |
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- Opposite: The current version of the Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Signals Corps in gilt and white metal. This badge has screw posts to back, but no maker mark.
- Above: Cloth Shoulder title to he Royal New Zealand Signals Corps. White letters on a Spectrum Blue background. The top title is a little grubby through wear. |
- Opposite: A puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the Royal New Zealand Signal Corps. This is the 3rd type.
1st type: - Pre - 1920 - Khaki/Light Blue/Khaki.
2nd type: - 1935 - Khaki/Half White - Half Light Blue/Khaki.
3rd Type: - Light Blue/Dark Blue/Light Blue.
Slightly fade in colour. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "7". Note the puggaree has been folded side-on.
1st type: - Pre - 1920 - Khaki/Light Blue/Khaki.
2nd type: - 1935 - Khaki/Half White - Half Light Blue/Khaki.
3rd Type: - Light Blue/Dark Blue/Light Blue.
Slightly fade in colour. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "7". Note the puggaree has been folded side-on.
New Zealand Post & Telegraph Corps
The New Zealand Post & Telegraph Corps was formed on the 7th of October 1911 as part of the New Zealand Engineers.
They amalgamated in June 1921 and became part of the New Zealand Corps of Signals, and their badges were ceased to be worn.
They amalgamated in June 1921 and became part of the New Zealand Corps of Signals, and their badges were ceased to be worn.
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- Opposite and Above: A solid Bronze Officers Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Post & Telegraph Corps. All are maker mark impressed to the back of the foot (vertical) to "J R Gaunt London". The Cap badge has two blades or tangs to back, while the Collars have two D shaped copper looped lugs. Note the above left Collar has been polished to front.
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- Above: A silver washed cap badge to the New Zealand Post & Telegraph Corps. Purpose is unknown, but marked to back with plaque to "J R Gaunt London.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap and Collar badge to the New Zealand Post & Telegraph Corps. Both have two copper looped lugs to back and a maker plaque to "J R Gaunt London".
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- Opposite Left: A gilt brass variation in the Cap badge to the New Zealand Post & Telegraph Corps. Wide crown and a sharper curve to the lower banner. Not maker marked and has two thick copper wire loops to back.
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Post & Telegraph Corps. Two thin wire lugs to back, with maker stamped mark to back of banner to "Bock Wellington". It also has a "WB" to lower right of the banner swirl.
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Post & Telegraph Corps. Two thin wire lugs to back, with maker stamped mark to back of banner to "Bock Wellington". It also has a "WB" to lower right of the banner swirl.
- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Post & Telegraph Corps. Marked to front again to "WB" to the right in the lower banner swirl. Two brass hex type lugs to back. Not much detail to back.
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- Above: A matching pair of gilt brass Collar badges to the New Zealand Post & Telegraph Corps. Both have the "WB" to the lower right in the banner swirl. Note the big toes, as they are opposing. No one side is harder to get, its more its hard to get a matching set!!!
Both have two hex type brass lugs to back. |
Opposite are four buttons to the New Zealand Postal & Telegraph. General consensus among collectors is that the white metal version (seen here on the right) are worn by Civilians working for the NZ Government in New Zealand. The brass versions are still an anomaly and could be military, yet no photo has yet been found which shows their wear.
- Left: A brass 21mm button with Kings Crown and "P. & T., N.Z" to front. Maker marked to back to "Stokes & Sons, Melb"
- Above 2nd from Left: A brass 21mm button with Kings Crown and "P. & T., N.Z" to front. Maker marked to back to "Ross & Glenning Ltd"
- Above 2nd from Right: A white metal, 19mm button, with Kings Crown and "P. & T., N.Z" to front. Maker marked to back to "J. R. Gaunt & Son Ltd, London"
- Above Right: A white metal, 16mm button, with Kings Crown and "P. & T., N.Z" to front. Maker marked to back to "Buttons Ltd, Bham", with crossed swords.
- Left: A brass 21mm button with Kings Crown and "P. & T., N.Z" to front. Maker marked to back to "Stokes & Sons, Melb"
- Above 2nd from Left: A brass 21mm button with Kings Crown and "P. & T., N.Z" to front. Maker marked to back to "Ross & Glenning Ltd"
- Above 2nd from Right: A white metal, 19mm button, with Kings Crown and "P. & T., N.Z" to front. Maker marked to back to "J. R. Gaunt & Son Ltd, London"
- Above Right: A white metal, 16mm button, with Kings Crown and "P. & T., N.Z" to front. Maker marked to back to "Buttons Ltd, Bham", with crossed swords.
- Above: A pair of gilt brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Army Postal Service. One is maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London" to back. Both have thick hex type lugs to back.
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- A pair of darkened shoulder titles to the New Zealand Post & Telegraph Corps. Both are maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London" to back, and have hex type, brass lugs.
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Above & Opposite: A pair of WW2 era Bakelite and darkened metal Morse Keys to the New Zealand Army. Both have "NZ" to the underside of the Bakelite base, while on top at the end, is marked "Key W.T. 8 Amp No. 2". Both are also NZ Defense Force marked to the handle with "N/I\Z".
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New Zealand got the wireless "bug" just prior to WW1, with a number of commercial enterprises offering courses. Dominion Collage seem to have offer a course in 1916 in the "Great Wireless Way", and a 1920 advert indicated you could "See the World" if becoming a "ships Wireless Operator".
Many of New Zealand Defense Forces I'm sure passed through its doors. They seem to have had Offices in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin.
- Opposite: A small Stirling Silver badge to the Dominion Collage of Wireless of New Zealand. Brooch fitting to back, with a small separate plaque with "Stg Sil" for Stirling Silver.
Many of New Zealand Defense Forces I'm sure passed through its doors. They seem to have had Offices in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin.
- Opposite: A small Stirling Silver badge to the Dominion Collage of Wireless of New Zealand. Brooch fitting to back, with a small separate plaque with "Stg Sil" for Stirling Silver.
Just prior to WW2, the New Zealand Post Office moved its training facilities from Wellington, to the old Army base at Trentham in 1939. Students lived in the old WW1 Army huts while attending the course.
It seems to have operated until at least 1965 (founds from information on-line).
- Opposite - A enamel and gilt metal badge to the "New Zealand Post Office, Signals Training School, Trentham". Brooch fitting to back, with the maker mark of "Mayer & Kean, Wellington".
It seems to have operated until at least 1965 (founds from information on-line).
- Opposite - A enamel and gilt metal badge to the "New Zealand Post Office, Signals Training School, Trentham". Brooch fitting to back, with the maker mark of "Mayer & Kean, Wellington".
New Zealand Army Pay Corps
The New Zealand Army Pay Department was formed in May 1917.
During WW1, members of the Department were attached to the Regiments and wore the units insignia while serving overseas.
It was re-titled the New Zealand Army Pay Corps on the 21st of July 1920.
During WW1, members of the Department were attached to the Regiments and wore the units insignia while serving overseas.
It was re-titled the New Zealand Army Pay Corps on the 21st of July 1920.
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- Opposite and Above: A Cap and two gilt brass Collar badges to the 1920 to 1924 New Zealand Army Pay Corps. No maker mark, and with hex type lugs Cap and the above left Collar (the other has wire looped lugs to back).
No maker mark to either. Note the Cap and left collar have a voided crown. |
- Above: A matching pair of New Zealand Army Pay Corps (NZAPC) shoulder titles in thick gilt brass, with the maker mark of "J R Gaunt London" impressed to back.
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- Above: A near matching pair of New Zealand Army Pay Corps (NZAPC) shoulder titles in thin, die stamped gilt brass with no maker mark, and thin Reinforcement like hex brass lugs to back.
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In 1930 the corps was disbanded and it is thought that it existed on paper only.
Its function would have been dispersed within the regiments and formations of the New Zealand Army at the time.
During WW2, the Corps was again reactivated and personnel assigned, but it was reduced in strength and disbanded again after WW2.
Corbett indicates that in 1969, the corps was re-activated and the kings crown badge continued to be worn.
Its function would have been dispersed within the regiments and formations of the New Zealand Army at the time.
During WW2, the Corps was again reactivated and personnel assigned, but it was reduced in strength and disbanded again after WW2.
Corbett indicates that in 1969, the corps was re-activated and the kings crown badge continued to be worn.
- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Pay Corps. No maker mark to back, and with two copper wire looped lugs.
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- Above Top: A matching pair of gilt brass Collar badges to the New Zealand Army Pay Corps. Both have two D shaped copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Note the Lions to top of badge are opposing.
- Above Bottom: A gilt brass Collar badge to the New Zealand Army Pay Corps. It has two D shaped copper looped lugs to back, and with the maker plaque of "J R Gaunt London". |
In October 1978, approval was given to update the Corps badge with St Edwards Crown.
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- Opposite and Above: A shiny gilt metal Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Army Pay Corps with Queens Crown, worn post 1978. None are maker marked to back, and are sadly very poorly made. Note the Lions to the top of the Collars are opposing.
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- Opposite and Above: A gilt metal Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Army Pay Corps. Better made, and solid to back. The Cap has screw posts, while the Collars have lugs. None are maker marked.
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- Opposite: A pair of cloth shoulder titles to the New Zealand Army Pay Corps. Just slight variation in colour, otherwise midnight blue letters on a Indian yellow background.
- Above: A puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the New Zealand Army Pay Corps. Khaki/Yellow/Khaki. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "6 7/8". It is thought that these were first issued during WW2. |
The corps was finally disbanded on the 31st of July 1993.
New Zealand Permanent Staff
The New Zealand Permanent Staff was form in 1911, along with the New Zealand Army. Initially they took their badges from the British Staff Corps, with the Lion over the Crown as being their badge.
- Above: A Staff Corps Cap Badge still on part of a J R Gaunt or London Sample board. In bronze, with tangs to back in a North/South Config. Gaunts code of "F2607" is hand written to lower right corner on the cardboard.
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- Above: Another variation of a Officers Staff Cap badge. A number of British regiments also wore this badge, and there are just variation on the tail and how many support it has. Two tangs to back, but no maker mark.
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As WW1 progressed, New Zealand Staff Officers did personalise their uniforms with the additions of Fern Leaf Collars.
- Above: A darkened copper pair of Collar badges to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back on each. No maker mark.
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- Above: A gilt brass pair of Collar badges to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. In 1937, with the coronation of George VI, the NZ Army Coronation Contingent wore these same shaped Collars with a special Cap badge to the Kings Coronation ceremony. Two copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above Left: A coppery gilt Collar badge to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. D shaped copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
- Above Right: A darkened brass Collar badge to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Wider, it has thin copper wire lugs to back. No maker mark. |
- Above Left: A wide, solid backed gilt brass Collar badge to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Two thick copper wire loops to back. No maker mark.
- Above Right: A sand cast Collar badge in brass to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Solid to back, with two short copper looped lugs cast into the back of the badge. No maker mark. |
- Opposite: With the Corps also deployed in the middle east during WW1, these sand cast brass badges also appeared and have been associated with the New Zealand Permanent Staff Corps.
In 1921, approval was given to the New Zealand Permanent Staff to have their own distinctive Cap badge and Collars.
- Above: A Bronze Cap Badge and selection of collar badge in either |
(Continued)
darkened Brass or Bronze. Some are maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London", while others have "Dowler Birmingham" impressed to back. -Above: A pair of small Mess Dress shoulder titles to the New Zealand Permanent Staff Corps. Only 10mm high, but have no maker mark to back. |
The Kings Crown New Zealand Permanent Staff Cap Badge and Collars are still worn today.
- Opposite A modern darkened copper Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. The Cap badge has two screw posts and nuts to back, while the collars have pins and clutches. None are maker marked.
- Opposite A modern darkened copper Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. The Cap badge has two screw posts and nuts to back, while the collars have pins and clutches. None are maker marked.
- Above Left: A 24mm Gilt brass button to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Maker marked to back to "Buttons Ltd, Birmingham".
(Made in the same size by "Smith & Wright Ltd, Birmingham" with fixed shank). - Above Center: A 20mm Gilt brass button to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Maker marked to back to "Buttons Limited, Birmingham". - Above Right: A 16mm Gilt brass button to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Maker marked to back to "Buttons Ltd, B'ham". |
- Above: A puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the New Zealand Permanent Staff Corps. Red/Red/Red. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "7".
Note this puggaree colour combination has also be used by: - Ceremonial or Honor Guard. - EIIR Coronation Contingent |
- Above: A bullion embroidered Cap or Hat badge to a General.
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- Above: Car Pennants once owned by Major General Sir Leslie Arthur Pearce CB, CBE, OBE, MBE. Served in the New Zealand Army from 1938 to 1973, from Private to Major General of the New Zealand Army Chief of General Staff.
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New Zealand Staff Corps
The New Zealand Staff formed in 1911, and was the Staff Corps for the New Zealand Territorial Forces.
In times of war, it merged with the New Zealand Permanent Staff Corps, as it did so during WW1 and WW2.
In times of war, it merged with the New Zealand Permanent Staff Corps, as it did so during WW1 and WW2.
- Above: A darkened semi-solid bronze Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Staff Corps. Two blades or tangs to back, with maker mark impressed to "J R Gaunt London".
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- Above: A matching pair of semi-solid bronze Collar badges to the New Zealand Staff Corps. Both have two D shaped copper loops to back and a maker impressed mark to "J R Gaunt London".
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- Above: A gilt fired Collar to the New Zealand Staff Corps. Semi-solid, with two D shaped looped lugs to back and the maker mark impressed to "Firmin London"
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- Above: A darkened semi-solid bronze Collar badge to the New Zealand Staff Corps. Two copper D shaped lugs to back and the impressed details to Dowler Birmingham".
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During WW2, the New Zealand Temporary Staff was set up to augment the Permanent and NZ Staff Corps.
- Opposite: Are a Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Temporary Staff. Note you can find these in Brass or darkened copper, with some having longer lugs to back than others, maybe indicating a Cap badge rather than a Collar. Maker marked to back is usually "M & K Ltd", for Mayer & Keane Limited of Wellington.
The Temporary Staff existed from 1939 to 1945.
- Opposite: Are a Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Temporary Staff. Note you can find these in Brass or darkened copper, with some having longer lugs to back than others, maybe indicating a Cap badge rather than a Collar. Maker marked to back is usually "M & K Ltd", for Mayer & Keane Limited of Wellington.
The Temporary Staff existed from 1939 to 1945.
- Above: A group of mainly 3rd (Auckland) Infantry NCO's on some steps in New Zealand at some stage during WW2. Note the chap on the left, back, who is also a WW1 veteran, with ribbons to his chest. He is also wearing the New Zealand Temporary Staff Cap and collars. The Staff Sergeant on the far right, front row is also wearing a crossed rifles Marksman sleeve badge on his right sleeve in cloth.
- Above Top: A die stamped gilt brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Staff Corps. Two hex lugs to back. No maker mark.
- Above: A hand-cut gilt brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Staff Corps. Thin hex type lugs to back, but no maker mark. |
- Above: A pair of die stamped gilt brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Staff Corps. Note the stippling between the letters, a feature of Stokes & Son of Melbourne made titles. Thin hex type brass lugs to back and no maker mark.
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- Above Top: A short or narrow die stamped brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Staff Corps. Hex type brass lugs to back, but no maker.
- Above: A pair of 10mm high gilt brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Staff Corps. Slight difference to back, with one having copper looped lugs, while the other has hex type brass lugs. Both are not maker marked. |
- Above: Three gilt brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Staff Corps. All are one piece, but have different shaped hex brass lugs to back. One is maker marked to back to "J R Gaunt London"
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- Above Left: A 25mm gilt brass button to the New Zealand Staff Corps. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt & Son Ltd. London, Engld."
- Above Center: A 19mm gilt brass button to the New Zealand Staff Corps. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt & Son Ltd. London, Engd." - Above: A 16mm gilt brass button to the New Zealand Staff Corps. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt & Son Ltd. London, Engd." |
- Above: A gold and silver sweethearts badge to the New Zealand Staff Corps or the New Zealand Signal Corps, Brooch fitting to back (though missing the pin), it is hallmarked "9ct" to center back, and "STSILV" to frame.
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New Zealand Veterinarian Corps
New Zealand Army Veterinarian Service was formed in 1906 from Volunteer Officers.
The Corps was formed in 1907, and at was not only responsible for selecting the Horses which were to accompany the NZ Soldiers overseas, but also the health and well-being once the animals arrived in the Middle East.
Three Veterinarians were initially sent with the Main Body, which left NZ in October 1914.
Subsequently two "Mobile Veterinarian Section"s of 28 men were formed in NZ, and then sent onto Egypt, to assist. One for the New Zealand Mounted Rifles, and one for the New Zealand Infantry.
After the withdrawal from Gallipoli and the formation of the New Zealand and ANZAC Divisions in April 1916. these two New Zealand Mobile Veterinarian Section were initially disbanded and then reformed into larger units, with one based in the Milddle East, while the other seeing action in France and the Western Front.
The Corps was formed in 1907, and at was not only responsible for selecting the Horses which were to accompany the NZ Soldiers overseas, but also the health and well-being once the animals arrived in the Middle East.
Three Veterinarians were initially sent with the Main Body, which left NZ in October 1914.
Subsequently two "Mobile Veterinarian Section"s of 28 men were formed in NZ, and then sent onto Egypt, to assist. One for the New Zealand Mounted Rifles, and one for the New Zealand Infantry.
After the withdrawal from Gallipoli and the formation of the New Zealand and ANZAC Divisions in April 1916. these two New Zealand Mobile Veterinarian Section were initially disbanded and then reformed into larger units, with one based in the Milddle East, while the other seeing action in France and the Western Front.
- Opposite: From the outset of the formation of the Corps, the Officers wore a intertwining N.Z.V.C in a wreath, below a crown.
These initial badges were Silver letters, over-layed on the bronze frame.
I do not have one as they are extremely rare, but the opposite come close.
A darkened Bronze Officers Cap Badge to New Zealand Veterinarian Corps, but with Laurel Boarder. Two blades or tangs to back (though one is missing), with maker plaque for "FIRMIN, LONDON" to back of crown.
Considered a mistake as the badge should have a Fern border.
These initial badges were Silver letters, over-layed on the bronze frame.
I do not have one as they are extremely rare, but the opposite come close.
A darkened Bronze Officers Cap Badge to New Zealand Veterinarian Corps, but with Laurel Boarder. Two blades or tangs to back (though one is missing), with maker plaque for "FIRMIN, LONDON" to back of crown.
Considered a mistake as the badge should have a Fern border.
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- Opposite and Above: A darkened Bronze Officers Cap and Collar badge pair to the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps. Note the Fern leaf wreath. The Cap has two tangs to back, while the Collars have D shaped copper looped lugs. No maker mark to either. The Collars are also quiet a rough cast.
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Initially when the Other Ranks arrived in Egypt for the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps, they worn no badge. Unofficially they approached local Egyptian manufacturers who made the below for the men sometime in 1915.
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- Opposite and Above: A pair of Cap badges to the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps. The "17" is the Corps number,, and is beneath the crown on the opposing badge. It has a long brass slider cast into the back. The above badge is a "cut-down version", with wreath and crown removed. Two wire loops have been soldered to back, behind the lower bottom scroll.
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- Above: The Collar badges for the above Cap badge in Cast brass to the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps. The right collar was also worn as a Cap badge. They have brass ribbon like lugs cast into the back of the badge. The left has a replaced copper wire lug, just seen in the back of the picture.
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- Above: A Pair of gilt brass Cap badges to the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps. Both are maker marked to back with a small plaque to crown to "J R Gaunt London". Note the right has a non-void crown. Both have copper looped lugs.
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- Above: A pair of other ranks, gilt brass Collar badge to the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps. Both have maker plaques to back to "J R Gaunt, Lodnon", along with two D shaped copper looped lugs.
- Opposite: A single piece, gilt brass cap badge to the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps. No maker mark, with two copper looped lugs. This badge has been heavily lacquered, which preserves the gilt, but yellows with age. |
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- Above: A selection of shoulder titles to the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps (N.Z.V.C).
- Top Pair: A die stamped gilt brass shoulder title pair to the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps. Maker impressed to back of the "Z" to "J R Gaunt, London". - Bottom Pair: A pair of thin gilt brass shoulder title with hex type lugs to back to the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps. No maker mark, and these look hand made. In 1947, the New Zealand Veterinarian Service was disbanded. |
- Above: A cast brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps. Hex lugs to back, with no maker mark.
- Above: A gilt brass, fixed shank, 25mm button to the New Zealand Army Veterinarian Service. Maker marked to "Firmin & Sons Ld, London". Note George V Cypher to center.
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New Zealand Special Air Service
The New Zealand Special Air Service started out as part of the British 22nd Special Air Service Regiment in 1955. in 1959, it became a separate Corps of the New Zealand Army.
In 1963 its title changed to the 1st Ranger Squadron, New Zealand Special Air Service.
In April 1978, its title reverted back to 1 New Zealand Special Air Service Squadron.
Opposite:
- Top: A Silver bullion thread Beret badge to the 1 New Zealand Special Air Service Squadron. No maker mark to back.
- Middle, Left & Right: A pair of Gilt fired brass and Silver collar badges to the 1 New Zealand Special Air Service Squadron. No maker mark to back.
- Bottom: A well worn other ranks woven Beret badge to the 1 New Zealand Special Air Service Squadron. No maker mark to back.
In 1963 its title changed to the 1st Ranger Squadron, New Zealand Special Air Service.
In April 1978, its title reverted back to 1 New Zealand Special Air Service Squadron.
Opposite:
- Top: A Silver bullion thread Beret badge to the 1 New Zealand Special Air Service Squadron. No maker mark to back.
- Middle, Left & Right: A pair of Gilt fired brass and Silver collar badges to the 1 New Zealand Special Air Service Squadron. No maker mark to back.
- Bottom: A well worn other ranks woven Beret badge to the 1 New Zealand Special Air Service Squadron. No maker mark to back.
- Opposite: A pair of non-matching cloth shoulder titles to the 1 New Zealand Special Air Service Squadron. The top set is a older style, with paper backing and maybe faded lettering. The bottom set has a cloth backing material and feels a more modern manufacture.
Care needs to be taken when purchasing, as this title has been widely faked.
Care needs to be taken when purchasing, as this title has been widely faked.
The Counter Terrorist Tactical Assault Group (CTTAG) was set up in December 2005 to augment the Counter Terrorist (CT) role the 1st NZ Special Air Service Group already maintained. The opposite 1st patterned badge was adopted in 2008, and represents the trinity or "tri-service" capability.
2nd Pattern appears to be non-void to center. There is also apparently a cloth version.
- Opposite: A 1st pattern Cap badge to the New Zealand Counter Terrorist Tactical Assault Group. Made from a silver metal, solid to back, it has two screw posts to back and a maker mark, which sadly I can't make out.
Smaller versions are worn as collar badges in the same design.
2nd Pattern appears to be non-void to center. There is also apparently a cloth version.
- Opposite: A 1st pattern Cap badge to the New Zealand Counter Terrorist Tactical Assault Group. Made from a silver metal, solid to back, it has two screw posts to back and a maker mark, which sadly I can't make out.
Smaller versions are worn as collar badges in the same design.
New Zealand Physical Training Corps
The New Zealand Physical Training Corps formed initially during WW1 as the NZ Physical Training Staff. This would last until June 1987, when it finally became a Corps.
- Opposite: WW1 era Cap and collars to the New Zealand Physical Training Staff. Subsequent badges worn were the same as the British Army Physical Training Corps. All three badges are in gilt brass, though one of my collars is tarnished/toned. Note the slight variation in die between the Cap and left collar (when pictured) and the right collar, which has a voided area below the crown. Copper wire lugs to back, and not maker marked.
- Opposite: WW1 era Cap and collars to the New Zealand Physical Training Staff. Subsequent badges worn were the same as the British Army Physical Training Corps. All three badges are in gilt brass, though one of my collars is tarnished/toned. Note the slight variation in die between the Cap and left collar (when pictured) and the right collar, which has a voided area below the crown. Copper wire lugs to back, and not maker marked.
- Above: British patterns of Physical Training Corps Badge, worn by the corps prior to 1995.
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In 1995 a distinctive New Zealand badge was again re-introduced for wear.
- Opposite Top and 2nd Row: A matt silver finished Cap and collar set to the New Zealand Physical Training Corps. The Cap badge has 4 pins and clutches to back (not shown) while the collars have 3 threaded bolt and nut fasteners to back. Not maker marked.
- Opposite Bottom Row: A silver finished, metal Cap badge to the New Zealand Physical Training Corps. The Cap badge has 4 pins and clutches to back (not shown), and is not maker marked.
- Opposite Top and 2nd Row: A matt silver finished Cap and collar set to the New Zealand Physical Training Corps. The Cap badge has 4 pins and clutches to back (not shown) while the collars have 3 threaded bolt and nut fasteners to back. Not maker marked.
- Opposite Bottom Row: A silver finished, metal Cap badge to the New Zealand Physical Training Corps. The Cap badge has 4 pins and clutches to back (not shown), and is not maker marked.
- Above: Cloth shoulder titles (post 1987) to the New Zealand Army Physical Training Corps. Red on Black background.
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- Above: Two types of Physical Training Corps Sleeve Trade badges in Brass. Worn by both the Kiwi's and British Corps. Top is a Cast brass example with three looped lugs to back. Bottom is a die stamped brass type, with two copper looped lugs to back.
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New Zealand Defence Security Guards.
Above Top Row: A gilt brass and enamel Cap (pre 1952) and collar badge to the New Zealand Defence Security Guards. The Cap badge on the left, has a slider to back which is maker marked to "Mayer & Kean, Wellington". The Collar has 2 replaced looped lugs, but could have had something to center.
Above Bottom Row: A gilt brass and enamel Cap badge Crown (post 1952) and Collar badge to the New Zealand Defence Security Guards. The Cap is made from gilt brass and enamel, while the collar is Gilt brass and enamel to center, and Silver to back. No maker mark to Cap, but the collar has "Bock" and "St Sil" to back. Two copper looped lugs to back to both. |
Above: A cloth and embroidered thread shoulder patch to the New Zealand Defence Security Guards.
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After WW2, Civilian personnel were approved to provide security for certain New Zealand Defence buildings. The first badge (a Tudor Kings crown - see above) was approved for wear in 1949. This was then updated, with the change in monarch in 1952.
Corps of Commissionaires
The Corps of Commissionaires was a global movement in Commonwealth countries which established societies or organisations who's role was to created and provide meaningful employment for veterans of the armed services.
It traces its origins to 1859, when Captain Sir Edward Walter KCB organised seven disabled veterans of the Crimean War and Indian Mutiny to act as nightwatchmen.
Countries like Canada and the United Kingdom still have these organisations working as private security firms today.
- Opposite: A New Zealand, Kings crowned badge to the Corps of Commissionaires. Heavy, chromed metal, with two thread posts and nuts to back. No maker mark.
It traces its origins to 1859, when Captain Sir Edward Walter KCB organised seven disabled veterans of the Crimean War and Indian Mutiny to act as nightwatchmen.
Countries like Canada and the United Kingdom still have these organisations working as private security firms today.
- Opposite: A New Zealand, Kings crowned badge to the Corps of Commissionaires. Heavy, chromed metal, with two thread posts and nuts to back. No maker mark.
New Zealand Officers Training Corps
Throughout New Zealand Defence Force history, New Zealand Universities have provided places to recruit, train and promote training for Officers and Enlistedmen. Over the years a number of Universities have had their own Officer Training Corps' (OTC's). Shoulder titles exist for Canterbury University OTC, Victoria Collage (Now Victoria University - Wellington) and opposite left Otago University OTC (Dunedin).
Opposite Left: A gilt brass Cap Badge to the Otago University Medical Company (OTC). Formed in 1915 to supply Medical and Dental Officers during WW1. It was absorbed into the New Zealand Medical Corps in October 1927.
Above Right: A cast brass shoulder title to the Otago University Officer Training Corps. No maker mark, and with two copper looped lugs to back.
Opposite Left: A gilt brass Cap Badge to the Otago University Medical Company (OTC). Formed in 1915 to supply Medical and Dental Officers during WW1. It was absorbed into the New Zealand Medical Corps in October 1927.
Above Right: A cast brass shoulder title to the Otago University Officer Training Corps. No maker mark, and with two copper looped lugs to back.
Opposite are a section of University medical Company shoulder titles.
Top: A yellow thread on light blue shoulder title to the Otago University Medical Company, based in Dunedin.
Center: A unknown shoulder title to a University Medical unit. Gold embroidered thread on a maroon background.
Bottom: A cloth shoulder title to Auckland University Medical Company. Yellow threads on a purple background.
Top: A yellow thread on light blue shoulder title to the Otago University Medical Company, based in Dunedin.
Center: A unknown shoulder title to a University Medical unit. Gold embroidered thread on a maroon background.
Bottom: A cloth shoulder title to Auckland University Medical Company. Yellow threads on a purple background.
New Zealand Army Band
The New Zealand Army has always had bands and musicians associated with Regiments and its bases, since Volunteer times.
Much of what they wore early on was based on the British badges and insignia.
Opposite Left: A Victorian crowned Bandsman's badge in white metal to center on a gilt brass background. No maker mark to back.
Opposite Right: Same badge as above, but this time with a chrome finish applied over both pieces of the badge.
Much of what they wore early on was based on the British badges and insignia.
Opposite Left: A Victorian crowned Bandsman's badge in white metal to center on a gilt brass background. No maker mark to back.
Opposite Right: Same badge as above, but this time with a chrome finish applied over both pieces of the badge.
Above, Top Left: A darkened brass, Queen Victorian Crowned Bandsman's' Cap badge, worn pre 1902.
Above, Top Right: Similar Bandsman's' Cap badge, but with Kings Crown and worn post 1902. Above, Bottom Left: A Kings Crown Bandsman's' Cap badge, but this time with no fretting to the center of the Lyre. Above, Bottom Right: A variation again, but this time personalised for the New Zealand Field Artillery Band, which has been engraved on a small plaque of silver (not marked) to center of Lyre. - Opposite: The two largest training camps in New Zealand during WW1 had their own bands. Opposite is a Cap badge to the Featherston Camp Trumpet Band. Two looped wire lugs to back in a North/South configuration. Trentham also had its own Camp band and badge. Which I do not have. |
Above: A close up of the silver plaque to center of the Bandsman's' Cap badge to the New Zealand Field Artillery Band.
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During WW1, with the greatly expanded New Zealand Army, bands were formed in Training Camps and within Reinforcement drafts.
Opposite, Top Left: A generic Collar badge worn by a Bandsman in a WW1 Reinforcement draft or in one of the training camps.
Opposite, Top Center: A matching Cap Badge to the above Collar. Two piece, with a separate Lyre sweated onto a Reinforcement frame.
Opposite, Top Right: A Cap badge worn by the 34th Reinforcements and onwards, with the "NZ" removed and a separate Lyre attached to center.
Opposite, Bottom Left: A generic, rounded framed collar badge to the Reinforcements, but with separate Lyre added to center.
Opposite, Bottom Center: A standard British/New Zealand Collar badge for a Bandsman or Musician.
Opposite, Bottom Right: A Collar badge worn by the 34th Reinforcements and onwards, with the "NZ" removed and a separate Lyre attached to center. This collar has been converted into a sweethearts badge, with lugs removed and a broach fitting added to back. Extra gilt has been also applied to front.
Opposite, Top Left: A generic Collar badge worn by a Bandsman in a WW1 Reinforcement draft or in one of the training camps.
Opposite, Top Center: A matching Cap Badge to the above Collar. Two piece, with a separate Lyre sweated onto a Reinforcement frame.
Opposite, Top Right: A Cap badge worn by the 34th Reinforcements and onwards, with the "NZ" removed and a separate Lyre attached to center.
Opposite, Bottom Left: A generic, rounded framed collar badge to the Reinforcements, but with separate Lyre added to center.
Opposite, Bottom Center: A standard British/New Zealand Collar badge for a Bandsman or Musician.
Opposite, Bottom Right: A Collar badge worn by the 34th Reinforcements and onwards, with the "NZ" removed and a separate Lyre attached to center. This collar has been converted into a sweethearts badge, with lugs removed and a broach fitting added to back. Extra gilt has been also applied to front.
- Above: A slightly worn postcard of Sling Camp Orchestra (UK) dated the 1st of May 1918. All the above chaps appear to be wearing 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment Collar badges, accept for the Officer, seated in the center (who's badges I can't make out). Note the Cello and Violin player on the left, seated. Both have Kings crowned Musicians badges to their right sleeves, above their rank stripes. Message in pencil to back says "Curly at far L picture. Thought it may have been better. Best Love Charles XXXXX".
Above: A Cap and Collar to a Bandsman or Musician from around WW2 and the 2NZEF. Both badges would have had a "NZ" to center, which has been removed and a Lyre sweated onto the frame.
Opposite Top: A Bandsman's Helmet Plate to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. This is a cast white metal badge, hand-painted with two lugs to back and the maker initials of "PAC" to back. Opposite Bottom: A Bandsman's Helmet Plate to the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. Again, cast white metal, with two lugs to back and is numbered "56". |
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A pair of cloth and embroidered shoulder titles to the New Zealand Army Band.
Top: A rather faded Yellow thread on a Red background to The Band of the New Zealand Army.
Bottom: A more modern Yellow thread on a Red background to the New Zealand Army Band.
Top: A rather faded Yellow thread on a Red background to The Band of the New Zealand Army.
Bottom: A more modern Yellow thread on a Red background to the New Zealand Army Band.
Sergeant-Major of the Army/Regimental Sergeant Major
In the 1990's there was a move to create a universal Cap and Collar badge for the New Zealand Army. This would replace all the regimental and corps badges.
The move was unpopular and eventually abandoned.
The badge opposite was instead adopted by the Sergeant-Major of the Army, and Regimental Sergeant Majors.
Opposite Top: Initially the badge was produced with a straight scroll. Shown is a Cap badge, in copper coloured metal. No maker mark to back, and with two screw posts to back in a North/South config. Collars were also produced and have the same straight scroll, but I have yet to obtain.
Opposite Bottom: Eventually the curved scroll version was adopted. My Cap comes again with two screw posts in a North/South config, while the collars have a pin and clutch assembly to back. None are maker marked.
The move was unpopular and eventually abandoned.
The badge opposite was instead adopted by the Sergeant-Major of the Army, and Regimental Sergeant Majors.
Opposite Top: Initially the badge was produced with a straight scroll. Shown is a Cap badge, in copper coloured metal. No maker mark to back, and with two screw posts to back in a North/South config. Collars were also produced and have the same straight scroll, but I have yet to obtain.
Opposite Bottom: Eventually the curved scroll version was adopted. My Cap comes again with two screw posts in a North/South config, while the collars have a pin and clutch assembly to back. None are maker marked.
Public Relations Officer
Like any modern day organisation, the New Zealand Army also needs to deal with the Public and media. I know little about the unit, but when collecting I have come across these two titles.
- Top: A Public Relations Officers title, with printed Indian yellow letters on a Rifle Green background.
Bottom: A Public Relations Officers title, but reverse colours, with Rifle Green embroidered letters on a Indian yellow background.
- Top: A Public Relations Officers title, with printed Indian yellow letters on a Rifle Green background.
Bottom: A Public Relations Officers title, but reverse colours, with Rifle Green embroidered letters on a Indian yellow background.
Young Men's Christian Association (Y.M.C.A)
The Young Men's Christian Association or Y.M.C.A. played a major role in WW1 (and WW2) for New Zealand Soldiers, both near the fronts in France, Belgium and around the camps in the Middle East, but also while the men trained in New Zealand. They offered comforts like a place to read, write (and provided writing material), meet or have a cuppa.
- Top Left: A WW1 Bronze NZ YMCA Officers Cap badge with tangs or blades to back. Maker impressed to lower back to "J R Gaunt London".
- Top Right: A WW1 sand cast NZ YMCA Cap badge, probably made in the Middle East, which YMCA personnel were stationed. Two copper looped lugs cast into the back. |
- Top Left: A WW1 solid backed, bronze collar badge to the NZ YMCA. Left when worn, with two copper looped lugs. No maker mark.
- Top Right: A darkened WW1 bronze NZ YMCA Officers badge. Note the kiwi's to the top are opposing. Impressed to lower back to "J R Gaunt London". Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back. |
- Above: A pair of hand-cut Shoulder titles in sheet brass to the YMCA. Two copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
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- Above: A small Silver (hallmarked) and enamel brooch to the New Zealand Y.M.C.A. WW1 style badge to front, with the red triangle to center and "Y.M.C.A" on a black enamel background. Maker marked to "W.J.D" to back.
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- Above: A example of YMCA writing paper provide to troops. Here its to Arthur, who was writing home on the 10th of March 1917 from Featherston Military Camp in NZ to girlfriend Gris, who was in Christchurch.
- Opposite: A small waterproof material wallet given out or purchased at the NZ YMCA in France. It has a date of 1918 impressed, and contained two small German paper note coins, both dated 1917. |
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- Above: A darkened brass Cap badge to the NZ YMCA. This is the WW2 pattern, with the Kiwi to top, touching both tips of the Ferns on either side.
To back is the maker mark of "M & K, W" for Mayer and Kean, Wellington. It has two copper looped lugs to back. |
- Above: Three Collar badges to the WW2 NZ YMCA in ether darkened or gilt finish. Note all Kiwi's are pointing in the same direction as the Cap Badge. I have yet to see a opposing Collar. All have copper wire loops to back and the maker mark of "M & K, W" for for Mayer and Kean, Wellington.
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