New Zealand Corps E to N

Royal New Zealand Army Education Corps

The New Zealand Army Education Welfare Service was established towards the end of WW1. On the 15th of Sept 1954, the unit was re-titled the New Zealand Army Education Corps.

- Opposite & Above: A gilt fired brass and silver Cap and Collar badge set to to the New Zealand Army Education Corps. All have Copper loops to back in a north/south configuration. The gilt fired brass center to each is held on by brass wires bent through the silver back. In raised letters, is the maker mark of "MAYER & KEAN LTD, NZ" to Cap and "M & K LD NZ" to Collar. Size of Cap 46mm by 25mm, Collar 34mm by 17mm.

- Opposite & Above: A gilt brass and white metal Cap and Collar badge set to to the New Zealand Army Education Corps. All have Copper loops to back in a north/south configuration, with a raised letter maker mark of "MAYER & KEAN LTD, NZ" to the Cap and "M & K LD NZ" to the Collar. Size of Cap 46mm by 25mm, Collar 34mm by 17mm.

 - Above: A gilt brass and white metal Collar badge pair to to the New Zealand Army Education Corps. Both have long looped wire lugs to back in a north/south configuration, with a impressed maker mark of "APW".
Avon Plate Works (APW) was based in Rathbone and Cyde Street, in Wangarei, New Zealand. It looks to have started as a business in the 1940's. Size 33.5mm by 17mm.
 - Opposite: On the 22nd of May 1952, APW replied to a request for samples as part of the bidding process for tender of Government contracts to make and supply gilt New Zealand Regiment Badges. I believe they were unsuccessfully (19th of May 1952 - FL48958700) , and Mayer and Kean Ltd got the contract (Archive NZ "Badges & Buttons - New Zealand Regiment" - FL48958653).
Interesting to note then that all supplied "samples" were property of the New Zealand Army and therefore had to be returned.

APW was part of Fisher & Sons (Jewelers) that later merged with Michael Hill.

 - Opposite & Above: A two piece, anodised aluminium staybrite Cap and Collar badge pair to to the New Zealand Army Education Corps. No maker mark to either, with two long pins to back of the Cap badge which easily break off. The Collars have two single lugs to the back, which is usually found on British Collars. Size of Cap 46.5mm by 25mm, while Collar is 32mm by 17mm. No maker marks.

In November 1963, the Corps was awarded the prefix "Royal".
As per Army memo 213/12/5/Q(A), dated the 23rd of Sept 1965, the new "Royal" New Zealand Army Education Corps insignia was ready for issue. The document indicates that the AA or Anodised Aluminium insignia was to be given in the opposite quantities to each Officer and Other Ranks in the Corps.
Ligne refers to button size (22 ligne =14mm, 27 ligne =16.8mm, 30 ligne =19mm, 40 ligne =25.4mm - Archive NZ entitled "Badges & Buttons - New Zealand Regiment" - FL48958529).

 - Opposite & Above: A two piece, anodised aluminium staybrite Cap and Collar badge set to to the Royal New Zealand Army Education Corps. No maker mark, and two short pins to back on each in a North/South configuration. Size of Cap 47mm by 24.5mm, while Collar is 32mm by 17.5mm..

 - Above: A two piece anodised aluminium staybrite Cap to the Royal New Zealand Army Education Corps. Two pins to back, and the maker mark of "FIRMIN LONDON". Size 47mm by 24.5mm.

 - Above: A two piece anodised aluminium staybrite Cap with slider to the Royal New Zealand Army Education Corps. Maker marked to "LONDON BADGE & BUTTONS CO LTD." Size 46mm by 24.5mm.

 - Above: A two piece anodised aluminium staybrite Cap to the Royal New Zealand Army Education Corps. Two aluminium lugs to back, and the maker mark of "FIRMIN LONDON". Size 47.5mm by 24.5mm.

 - Above: A puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the New Zealand Army Education Corps, Dark Blue/Light Blue/Dark Blue (Image from internet).

 - Above: Post 1961, supposedly White (though it appears  Light Blue) embroidered letter on Cambridge Blue background cloth shoulder title to the Royal New Zealand Army Education Corps. Note the lower title is the more modern version, with a embroidered border or edge.

 - Above Left: A 25.4mm (40 ligne) silver tone anodised aluminium fixed shank button to the NZAEC. Maker marked to "GAUNT LONDON" to back.
 - Above Right: A 19mm (30 ligne) silver tone anodised aluminium fixed shank button to the RNZAEC. Maker marked to "FIRMIN LONDON" to back.

 - Above Left: A 16.8mm (27 ligne) silver tone anodised aluminium fixed shank button to the RNZAEC. Maker marked to "FIRMIN LONDON" to back.
 - Above Left: A 14mm (22 ligne) silver tone anodised aluminium fixed shank button to the RNZAEC. No Maker marked to back.

National Stock Number 8455-98-104-6624 was assigned to "Branch of Service, RNZAEC, Collar, All Ranks." on the 18th of Jan 1979.
National Stock Number 8455-98-106-5358 was assigned to "Shoulder Sleeve Insignia, RNZAEC, Collar, All Ranks." on the 29th of Aug 1980.
(Manufacturer noted as Arbi Monogram Ltd).
National Stock Number 8455-98-102-0408 was assigned to "Insignia Button, 30 Line (Ligne - 19mm), All Ranks, RNZAEC." on the 1st Jun 1990.
National Stock Number 8455-98-102-0409 was assigned to "Insignia Button, 27 Line (Ligne - 16.8mm), All Ranks, RNZAEC." on the 1st Jun 1990.
National Stock Number 8455-98-102-0411 was assigned to "Insignia Button, 22 Line (Ligne - 14mm), All Ranks, RNZAEC." on the 1st Jun 1990.
National Stock Number 8455-98-102-0412 was assigned to "Insignia Button, 40 Line (Ligne - 25.4mm), All Ranks, RNZAEC." on the 1st Jun 1990.

Royal New Zealand Electrical & Mechanical Engineers

Initially formed as a unit within the 2NZEF in 1942, the New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers were formed in September 1946 as a permanent corps in the New Zealand Defence Force.
They were granted the prefix "Royal" in July 1947.
Motto: ARTE ET MARTE (By skill and fighting).
 The 2nd pattern of UK REME badge was adopted by the Corps, with the only distinguish feature being the "NZ" in the title on the Cap badge, otherwise the collars are the same as what the UK and Canada wore.

 - Above: A gilt fired brass and Silver Cap and collar set to the Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. All are maker marked with "J R GAUNT LONDON" to back, and the collars are marked with a "S" for Silver.

 - Above: A other ranks set of gilt brass & white metal Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. Long copper looped lugs to back of Cap badge, while Collars are shorter. No maker to either. Size of Cap is 48mm by 30.5mm, Collars size is 33mm by 15mm.

 - Above: A larger crown type Cap Badge with broader letters and banner to the RNZEME. Long copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Size 52mm by 31mm (note missing tip of crown).

 - Above: A post 1952 set in gilt fired brass and silver to the Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. Cap badge is maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London". Both collars are not marked to back.

 - Above: A anodised aluminium staybrite Cap and collar set to the Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. The Cap badge is lugged and marker marked to "J R Gaunt London". The two collars have pins to back.

 - Above: A two tone, anodised aluminium staybrite Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, on Corps colours backing. Two long looped lugs in a North/South configuration along with the maker mark of "J R GAUNT LONDON" in raised letters to back. Cap badge size 48mm by 31mm. Backing size 53mm by 49mm.

 - Above: The last pattern of Cap and collar badges to the Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. All are gilt metal with a frosted silver colour center. All have screw posts to back, which are used with round nuts. Not maker marked to back. Cap badge size 48mm by 32mm. Opposing Collar badge size is 33mm by 15mm.

The following three badges are all hand made. I have always presumed that they were associated with the RNZEME, and unlike the NZ Army Ordnance Corps Artificer badge, feature a Ball Pein Hammer and pair of Pliers.

 - Above: A cast brass, one piece sleeve trade badge. With cast lugs to back, which have had holes drilled to sides. Size 30mm by 31mm.

 - Above: A 2 piece brass, sleeve trade badge. Separate tools, soldered together, where they cross, with a single lug to center. Size 43mm by 38mm.

 - Above: A hand cut, thick sheet brass, one piece sleeve trade badge. Two copper looped lugs soldered to back of hammer. Size 38mm by 40mm.

 - Opposite: A superb split image entitled "Bill Skellern" and dated the 6th of June 1945. Bill here is wearing what appears to be the above badge. Note only to one sleeve, i.e. the right. Sadly Bill's service file is not on-line yet, so I cannot confirm that he was indeed part of the R.N.Z.E.M.E. (Swainson/Woods Collection, Puke Ariki and District Libraries SW1945.1067).

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The following are buttons to the Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. They appear the same as the British worn pattern of button.

 - Above: A 19mm, gilt brass button to the RNZEME. Maker marked to back to "GAUNT LONDON".
Also in the same size is a "METALINKS 1951" maker marked RNZEME button (B Jones collection).

 - Above Left: A 25.5mm gilt anodised aluminium fixed shank button to the RNZEME. Maker marked to "GAUNT LONDON" to back.
 - Above Center: A 19mm gilt anodised aluminium fixed shank button to the RNZEME. Maker marked to "GAUNT LONDON" to back.
 - Above Right: A 17mm gilt anodised aluminium fixed shank button to the RNZEME. Maker marked to "FIRMIN LONDON" to back.

Silver tone, which could be dulling with age.
- Above Left: A 25.5mm silver tone anodised aluminium fixed shank button to the RNZEME. Maker marked to "GAUNT LONDON" to back.
 - Above Center: A 19mm silver tone anodised aluminium fixed shank button to the RNZEME. Maker marked to "GAUNT LONDON" to back.
 - Opposite: Post 1961, cloth shoulder titles to the Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers.  Both are Indian Yellow letters on a Purple Navy background. Note the variation in letter sizing due to manufacturer variation.

- Left: A 17.5mm silver tone anodised aluminium fixed shank button to the RNZEME. Maker marked to "FIRMIN LONDON" to back.
 - Center: A 17mm silver tone anodised aluminium fixed shank button to the RNZEME. Maker marked to "GAUNT LONDON" to back.
 - Right: A 14mm silver tone anodised aluminium fixed shank button to the RNZEME. Maker marked to "GAUNT LONDON" to back.

 Other button sizes/makers:
 - 25mm silver tone anodised aluminium fixed shank button to the RNZEME. Maker marked to "LONDON BADGE & BUTTON" to back

National Stock Number 8455-98-106-5352 was assigned to "Shoulder Sleeve Insignia, RNZEME," on the 28th of Aug 1980.
(Manufacturer noted as Arbi Monogram Ltd).
National Stock Number 8455-98-104-6588 was assigned to "Service Hat & Service Cap Insignia, RNZEME, Gilt" on the 17th of Jan 1979.
National Stock Number 8455-98-104-4173 was assigned to "Branch of Service Insignia, RNZEME, Collar" on the 8th of Oct 1979.
National Stock Number 8455-98-204-3113 was assigned to "Branch of Service Insignia, RNZEME, Collar" on the 30th of Nov 1993.
National Stock Number 8455-98-104-4174 was assigned to "Branch of Service Insignia, RNZEME, Collar, Gold and Silver, LH" on the 15th of Jan 1979.
National Stock Number 8455-98-104-4175 was assigned to "Branch of Service Insignia, RNZEME, Collar, Gold and Silver, RH" on the 15th of Jan 1979.
National Stock Number 8455-98-104-0433 was assigned to "Insignia, Button, 30 (19mm) Line (Ligne) All Ranks RNZEME" on the 1st of Jun 1990.

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 - Above & Opposite: Initially the first puggaree of the NZEME was that of the New Zealand Amy Ordnance Corps (Red/Blue/Red), as they were formed from that unit in 1942 for the 2NZEF. In 1943, to distinguish themselves, they adopted the above. So this is the 2nd pattern of puggaree  for the unit to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat - Red/Green/Red. Marked to inside with size in purple ink to "6 3/4".

 - Above & Opposite: A 3rd pattern of puggaree adopted post 1948 to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat in the colours of the Royal New Zealand Electrical & Mechanical Engineers - Dark Blue/Yellow (thin)/Red. Marked to inside with size in blue ink to "7 1/8". Apparently the adoption of the new 3rd pattern was to aline with the Corps colours, but was not instantaneous, and old stocks of the 2nd pattern were "washed out" of stores before the new 3rd pattern was issued. This looks to have been completed by 1951 (source Robert McKie - RNZAOC.com)

 - Above: A unissued stable belt to the Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. Chromed metal fittings, with a belt center with the Corps Cap badge and "R.N.Z.E.M.E" to banner. The Corps motto is also to center with "ARTE ET MARTE" from the Latin meaning "By Skill and by Fighting". All is mounted on the Corps' colours.

 - Above: No maker markings to the metal fittings to the belt, but a label is sewn in, with the details "Hobson & Sons (London) Ltd...... Large". In pen is written "30 x 40"".

 - Above: The belt is in its original plastic packet, with the above label attached. Note the manufacture date of 4th of May 1997 and size 40".

 The Corps was absorbed into the Royal New Zealand Logistic Regiment on the 9th of December 1996, and its badges and insignia no longer worn.

Fakes & Forgeries

Below is a fake cast bi-metal Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Electrical & Mechanical Engineers
 - Detail to front to both metals is OK to poor, and lacks a lot of detail.
 - To back has lack of detail too, and there is also stippling and pitting, and the edges are thick and flat.
 - Note the white metal Horse and Globe are just held on by wire hooks. Originals are sweated on to front.
 - Two short, ribbon like copper brass lugs are soldered on, but are not a type encountered on the originals.
 - Size 47mm by 30mm.

Emergency Precautions Scheme (E.P.S.)

The Emergency Precautions Scheme or EPS was set up by the New Zealand government in 1935 to coordinate a national response to natural disasters or enemy attacks. It was mainly concerned with air raids, fires, poison-gas attacks, and earthquakes. 
After the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbour in December 1941, it prompted many New Zealanders to volunteer to join the E.P.S. 
In January 1942, enrolment in the Emergency Defence Corps (which included the E.P.S. and the Home Guard) became compulsory. All able-bodied men aged between 16 and 66 who were not serving in the armed forces were required to join. Women were asked to volunteer, and once enrolled could not resign at will.
Thousands of EPS members prepared against possible attacks. They built trenches and shelters, planned for evacuations and the protection of school children, watched for fires, and policed blackouts. There was some overlap between the duties of the EPS and Home Guard, and men could be members of both.
As the threat from Japan receded, EPS's activites were scaled back.
The EPS was the forerunner of New Zealand Civil Defence which still operates today.
 - Above Right: A small silver washed and copper lapel badge to the New Zealand Emergency Precautions Scheme. It has "E.P.S" within an oval shield, and "N.Z." below. There is a King's crown to top, with brooch fitting to back, it has no maker mark. Much wear to silver finish, with just remnants to back. Size 24mm by 24mm.

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 - Above: The standard New Zealand issue Emergency Precautions Scheme or EPS armlet to be issued. Worn on civilian clothes, it signified that the person was undertaking EPS work.

 - Above: A similar New Zealand issue Emergency Precautions Scheme or EPS armlet. This one has been over-stamped in black in for "TEAM WORKER" with serial number. There are many different over-stamps, eg. "T" for Transport, "W.G. for Water Guard (Armlet Te Papa collection GH007451).

Royal New Zealand Engineers

The New Zealand Engineers have a long history prior to 1911 as part of New Zealand Volunteer System.
In 1909, the Volunteers were reformed into the New Zealand Engineer Regiment as follows:
No. 1 Company - Canterbury
No. 2 Company - Dunedin
No. 3 Company - Auckland
No. 4 Company - Wellington
The NZE Volunteers continued past 1911, and became a "Corps" after WW1 on 1st of June 1923 with their title changing to the Corps of New Zealand Engineers.
On the 12th of June 1947, the Corps were awarded the prefix "Royal", and became the Corps of Royal New Zealand Engineer.
Motto: HONI SOIT QUI MAL Y PENSE (Shame on him who thinks evil of it).
also QUO FAS ET GLORIA DUCUNT (Whither right and glory lead).

 The regiments Cap badge was put forward on the 10 July 1911, with a caveat that "The G.O.C. (General Officer Commanding) desires that all Companies should adopt the one badge as follows.-

Hat or Cap.- Monogram N.Z.E. surrounded  by circle bearing the motto "Quo fas et gloria ducunt", and surmounted by a crown & lion".

Collar Badge - Plain Engineer grenade."

 - Opposite: A hand drawn representation of the New Zealand Engineers Cap badge attached to a 6th of June 1912 memo asking for the design when its received from the Government Printers. The design of the badge appears to be approved on the 24th of April 1912.
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).

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 - Above: A rare gilt brass cap badge with George V Cypher (reigned 1910 to 1936) to the New Zealand Engineer Volunteers. This badge would have been worn up to 1923, in New Zealand, when the NZ Engineer's still called themselves Volunteers. After, they then became a Corps.

 - Above: A prototype badge? With a center wreath which states "Ryl. N.Z. Engineers", it has a cypher which is for George V. Note the two ferns at base of wreath which is a feature on No. 1 Company, NZE Volunteer badges. Two tangs to back, and though gilt finish, has a rough cast finish to back. No maker mark (image from the internet).

 - Above: A semi-solid bronze Cap badge for a Officer in the New Zealand Engineers. Maker plaqued to back to "J R GAUNT LONDON", it has two folded tangs to back (image from internet).

 - Above Left: A darkened copper Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Die stamped, with two tangs to back. No maker mark and size 40mm by 25mm.

 - Above: A darkened bronze Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: A darkened Copper Officers Cap badge to the NZE. Semi-solid to back, with the maker details of "STOKES & SONS, MELBOURNE". Two short copper looped lugs to back, and size 41.5mm by 25mm.

 - Above: An image of 4/01 Major (later Lt-Colonel) David John Gibbs (DSO, MID x 2) of the New Zealand Engineers. Here wearing a Cap and "NZE" bannered Officer Collars to his uniform. David was the New Zealand Engineer CO of the Samoan Advance Party in 1914/1915, and then went on to command the 3rd New Zealand Engineer Field Company in France, he also was Commanding Officer of the New Zealand Engineers from 1924 to 1928 (© IWM HU 114973)

 - Above: A gilt fired brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Semi-solid to back, with the maker details of "STOKES & SONS, MELBOURNE". Two short copper looped lugs to back, and size 41.5mm by 25mm.

 - Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Die stamped, with the maker plaque to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back. Size 40mm by 24mm.

 - Above: A darkened brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Maker marked to back, upper center to "M & K, W" or Mayer & Kean, Wellington. Two thick type copper wire lugs to back. Size 41mm by 25mm.

 - Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Possible maker of Rubin Watts of Auckland, but not maker marked. Unusual brass slider to back, which comes to a point like a triangle.

 - Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Little detail to back of badge, with two short copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark and size 41mm by 25mm.

 - Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Note the small "NZE" to center and the large "Star" to base. Brass wire looped lugs to back, and size 41mm by 25mm.

 - Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Two pressed type brass lugs to back which is more in common with late 1940's/early 1950's made badges. No maker mark and size 40mm by 25mm.

 - Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Note the different crown. This badge has two hex type brass lugs to back and could be a early WW1 make. No maker mark and size 39.5mm by 24.5mm.

 - Above: A sand cast Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. This is slightly smaller than a standard size Cap badge, and has two copper lugs cast into the back. It also has the shape of a Gaunt plaque to back base. Size 38.5mm by 23mm.

 - Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Two copper looped lugs to back (with feet), but no maker mark. Size 40mm by 24.5mm.

 - Above: A darkened copper Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. A mess to back, with two replacement wire lugs and no maker mark that can be seen. Size 40mm by 24.5mm.

 - Above: A Gilt Brass, semi-solid Cap badge, marked "STOKES & SONS, MELB" in a straight line to back. Issued and worn by 557050 Sapper Ewen Charles William Mills in WW2. Ewan was a neighbour and family friend. He added the "spike" after the lugs broke off his badge. Size 41.5mm by 25mm.

 - Above: An image of 37478 Sapper John William Ryan of the New Zealand Engineers (NZ Tunneling Company). He wears a gilt brass NZE Cap badge, with flaming grenade collars and a "NZE" curved brass shoulder title to his shoulder boards. His buttons are gilt brass NZ Forces "4 star" buttons to his tunic (Auckland Libraries collection 31-R2467).

 - Above: An early image of 3/2269 Sergeant Phillip Charles Stephenson, here of No. 3 Field Company, New Zealand Engineers. He wears a piped tunic in Dark Blue, with a "NZE" curved brass shoulder title. He has flaming grenade collars and 4 star "NZ Forces" gilt brass

(continued) buttons. Note the cloth 7 flame grenade above his three rank chevrons for Sergeant (worn by senior NCO's over the rank of Corporal in the NZE). To his left sleeve is the above type proficiency badge for "Field Engineer". It appears to be in Volunteer period colours, Red on Dark Blue. Phillip was a Dentist by trade, so though he served in the NZE prior to WW1, he became part of the NZ Dental Corps when he attested (image Auckland Libraries collection 31-S1146, badge - image from the internet). 

 - Above: A silver (not marked) sweethearts badge in the shape of a New Zealand Engineers Cap badge. Brooch fitting to back, which is in a North/South configuration. Though missing the pin. No maker mark and size 41mm by 25mm.

 - Above: A Silver & multi-coloured enamel sweethearts badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Cap badge size, it has a brooch fitting to back, with maker initials of "T.J.M STERLING". Thomas James Mercer was an English Jeweler and silversmith (Image from the internet).

 - Above: A brass & multi-coloured enamel sweethearts badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Cap badge size, it has a brooch fitting to back. No maker mark (Ian Hamilton Collection).

  - Above: An image of a Mrs Schwass, here, with a New Zealand Engineers badge to her lapel. There were a number of Schwass who served in the infantry in WW1, but none appear to be associated with the NZE in the Nelson area (Nelson Museum collection 96848).


 - Opposite: A gilt brass and enamel veterans badge or sweethearts brooch to the New Zealand Engineers. Top bar has a brooch fitting to back. Not maker marked (Image from the internet).

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Belgium - 10th April 1917

The following 4 photographs were taken somewhere in Belgium and feature 4/2113 William Corsan McMillan, who joined the NZEF in December 1915, and trained a part of the 11th Reinforcements for the New Zealand Engineers.
He would arrive to France via Egypt, as he just missed the reorganisation in April 1916 (arrived the 2nd of May) of the NZEF, and was then moved onto Sling Camp in the UK.
William was to serve 3 years and 34 days overseas on the Western Front with no. 3 Coy, New Zealand Field Engineers.
Life in the trenches was not good to him, and his health suffered until classed as "C" fit in Oct of 1918, he was sent back to the UK and then eventually New Zealand, where he was discharged at "unfit due to illness contracted while on active service".
He was issued with a SWB numbered "13404" on the 14th of Jan 1919.

 - Above: An image of William with steel helmet, flaming grenade collars, 4 star NZ Forces buttons and his Gas Mask tied around his neck. I think he also has "NZE" curved shoulder titles, but they are hard to make out. Written to back is "Belgium 10-4-17".
 - Opposite: Another image of William, this time with sheep skin jerkin over the top of his uniform. Issued to combat the cold, note also his boots with leather gaiters. Written to back "Belgium 10-4-17. Winter Dress. Some fools made me laugh. That box is the new gas mask".

The following are a bit of fun. Note William's face above and leather gaiters, as it now gets complicated.

 - Above: Here William swaps his Tunic, Lemon Squeezer and bandolier with a Belgium soldier! Note he keeps his boots and leather gaiters. To back is written "This Belgium Soldier & I have changed uniforms. Love, Your Son XXX, 10-4-17, Belgium".

 - Above: This time William is with flat cap, scarf and jacket, seated. He has written "Belgium 10-4-17, The chap with the Red Cross rig on is the Belgium Soldier & the one with the Belgium rig is a mate of mine from Longburn (where William was born in NZ), the chap with mine on (William's NZE Tunic, bandolier and hat) is the Belgium's brother, him & I changed. Love, Your Son XXX".

New Zealand Engineer Tunnelers Company WW1.

The New Zealand Engineers Tunnelers Company formed in September 1915 on the Western Front. It disbanded 24th of April 1919.

Many Kiwi's served with it or were attached to other Commonwealth Tunneling companies during WW1.

There is much debate as to why they had a larger badge, as it was not sanctioned by the New Zealand Army, but there are pictures of it being worn by members of the NZ Tunneling Company.

The Tunnelers Cap badge is approximately 48mm high by 30mm wide.
The standard New Zealand Engineer's Cap badge is 40mm high by 24mm wide.
(Measurements taken from two Gaunt plaqued examples).

Motto: QUO FAS ET GLORIA DUCUNT (Whither right and glory lead).
Also: INGA WAHI KATOA (Everywhere).

 - Above: An image of 4/1224 Captain (later Lt-Col) John Dudley Holmes (DSO, MID) wearing a large NZE Tunnelers Cap badge and long bannered NZ Tunneling Officers Collar badges. John finished the war as a Lieutenant Colonel, Headquarters, NZ Tunneling Company (Archive NZ R24184523).

  - Above: An image of 4/1228 Captain H Watkinson who served with the New Zealand Tunneling Company from the 13th of Oct 1915 until the war's end. He is wearing a large NZE Cap badge to his Lemon Squeezer with Khaki/Dark Blue/Khaki Puggaree. To the collar of his tunic are a pair of NZ Tunneling Officers Collars, with its long banner and "NGA WAHI KATOA" - Everywhere. Image dated February 1918 and taken by Messrs. Lafayette Ltd (© IWM HU 127120).

- Above: A rather scarce gilt fired brass Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers Tunnelers Company. Solid to back (which is rough), with two tangs. No maker mark.

 - Above Left: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers Tunnelers Company. Die stamped, it has been polished and then coated in lacquer, which has browned with age. Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Probably J R Gaunt.
 - Above Right: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers Tunnelers Company. Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back, with maker plaque to "J R Gaunt London".

 - Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers Tunnelers Company. Long brass slider to back with the maker impressed mark of "Tiptaft Bham" stamped on it.

 - Above: Another example of a Gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers Tunnelers Company. Long brass slider to back (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: A pair of very scarce Officers Collars to the New Zealand Engineers Tunnelers Company. Estimated at maybe 40 to 50 Officer to the unit, these are rarely seen. Motto: Inga Wahi Katoa (Everywhere - Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: A pair of New Zealand Engineer Tunnelers Company shoulder titles. The "E" is brazed to the top of the "New Zealand" title. Both titles have two copper looped lugs to back and the maker stamp of "J R Gaunt London".
There are no lugs to the back of the "E"'s.

 - Opposite: An image of 4/1226 Captain Robert Henry Price Ronayne, here a member of the New Zealand Engineer Tunnelers Company. He wears the long bannered NZ Tunneler Collar badges to his tunic, and note his shoulder title, which is the "E" over "NEW ZEALAND". To his right sleeve, just above his cuff rank, is a 4 year service chevron. Robert also saw home service during WW2, service number 803192 (image from the Auckland Cenotaph).

 - Above: A pair of darkened New Zealand Engineer Tunnelers Company shoulder titles. These have separate "E"and  "New Zealand" titles. Both titles have two copper looped lugs to back but are not maker marked.
There are hex type lugs to the back of the "E"'s.
 - Opposite: A superb French made silk card sent by 28015 Herbert (Jack) John Jelley to his wife (Maude) at some stage in late 1916, early 1917. Jack was a Bricklayer, who joined the New Zealand Engineers from England, via the Hornchurch Depo. He spent 1 year and 198 days overseas, in France. Sadly Jack was gassed on the 23rd of June 1917 while part of No. 1 Coy, NZ Field Engineers. He was evacuated out of France and returned to England, where he was struck off strength on the 6th of Dec 1917, as "No Longer Fit".
 The card depicts the New Zealand Engineers Cap badge, with a "E" over "NEW ZEALAND" shoulder title at base. To back, Jack has written "Love to all Jack, my dear Maude, you need not send me anything out here. I am alright, if I want anything I will let you know. Love to you and the children from your loving husband Jack. I am sending you a note with the card. XXXXXXX".
 Jack had two children at the time in England. Card is maker marked to back to "E. C., Boulogne-sur-Mer, Lillie".

 - Above: A rare thing, a page to the British issued New Zealand Silver War badge roll. It only contains a few hundred names, but as 28015 (Jack) Herbert John Jelley was demobilised in England, and deemed unfit due to being Gassed, he was issued SWB NZ166.  The New Zealand issued SWB roll which would contain 1000's of names of the recipients who were issued their badges in New Zealand has been lost (so far - above page supplied by Ray Butler).

New Zealand Engineer Railway Battalion WW1.

The New Zealand Railway Battalions formed in Oct 1911, and were part of the NZ Engineers.
No. 1 Company - North Island
No. 2 Company - South Island
On the 10th of May 1912, their proposed badge was described as:
"Cap Badge: An engine, railway line and crossed guns within a collar inscribed "New Zealand Railway Corps". A crown above.
Collar Badge: Smaller, omitting crown".
(Cadets, Regimental Badges and Uniforms R21078962 Box 19 AD37 24 c1912 Archives N.Z.).

They would deploy with the Samoa Advance Force in 1914 and then go on to France and the Western Front. The unit was disbanded in 1921.

 - Opposite: A superb image of 4/257 John Selwyn Bell, who was a railway clerk prior to WW1, and was also in the Territorial Force. When war broke out, he joined the New Zealand Railway Battalion, and was sent to Samoa, as part of the Samoan Expeditionary Force, with the battalion. 

John is wearing his NZE Railway Battalion Cap badge to his peaked cap, with flaming grenade collars. To his shoulder is a curved, gilt brass "NZE" shoulder title. He wears the NZ Forces "4 star" buttons to his tunic. The 2 chevrons to his sleeve indicate the rank of Corporal.

John returned to NZ after the 14th of April, 1915, whereby he enlisted again, as part of the 5th Reinforcements, and saw action at Gallipoli in September that year, he would then go onto serve in Egypt and on the Western front, totaling some 4 years overseas as a Signaler. In WW2 he re-enlisted, with service number 800769. He would be stationed on Norfolk Island, as part of N Force with the Army. A number of New Zealanders were stationed there from October 1942 to February 1944, as the Island was seen as a strategic target to the Japanese in that it housed a cable station which linked New Zealand with Australia. 
At the peak of hostilities, N Force consisted of 1,488 NZ personnel under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel J. W. Barry.
From 1944, the RNZAF took over protection of the Island, and all New Zealand Forces were withdrawn by July 1946.

Care needs to taken when purchasing this badge, as sadly it has been faked considerably in recent years.

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 - Above: A die stamped, gilt brass Cap badge to the NZE Railway Battalion. Round copper looped lugs to back, with a maker plaque to back of the crown to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 45mm by 27mm.

 - Above: A darkened brass, die stamped Cap badge to the NZE Railway Battalion. With rounded copper looped lugs to back and a impressed maker mark of "J R GAUNT LONDON", vertical and to the left side of the train (when viewed from the back). Size 45mm by 27mm.

 - Above: A die stamped, gilt brass Cap badge to the NZE Railway Battalion. Round copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Size 45mm by 27mm.

 - Above: A pair of matching coppery bronze grenade collar badges. Two copper D shaped looped lugs to back in a North/South configuration. No maker mark, and size 30mm by 19mm.

 - Above: A pair of non-matching gilt brass grenade collar badges. Note a slight difference in the flame pattern to top. The left also has a extra "ring" at the top of the grenade. Two long wire loops to back in a North/South configuration. No maker mark, and size 34mm by 20mm.

 - Above: A pair of gilt brass unknown grenade collar badges. Again a difference in the flame pattern to top. Two thick copper looped lugs to back in a North/South configuration. No maker mark, and size 30mm by 20mm.

 - Above: A pair matching of 10 flame, darkened bronze Officers Collar badges to the New Zealand Engineers. Two piece, with separate lower banner attached to grenade. Both have two looped lugs in a north/south configuration. Both have a plaque to back with "J R GAUNT LONDON".  Size 47mm by 27mm.

 - Above: A pair of 10 flame, darkened bronze Officers Collar badges to the New Zealand Engineers. To badge of banner is the letters "N.Z.E" with two looped lugs to back (Ian Hamilton Collection).

  - Above: A gilt fired Collar badge to the NZE. Separate lower banner,  attached to 10 flame Grenade. Two long copper loops to back, no maker mark. Size 46mm by 27mm.

 - Above: An unfinished Collar badge, likely from Mayer & Kean, with no lower banner to base, and 10 flames for Engineers. Note the border to the flames, similar to what the chap next door is wearing to his collar. The badge has not gone through the "cutting" process, and has no lugs or maker marked to back. It was in a group of items which some of where marked "M & K". After cutting it may have had a separate lower banner attached or left as is, with impression size 40mm by 21mm.
- Opposite: A image of a pre-WW1 or WW1 senior NCO (the top of a sleeve crown can just be seen in bottom right corner of his tunic arm) with the New Zealand Engineers. He is wearing his Sam Brown cross-strap over his shoulder. Note his shoulder strap, which has a "NZ STAFF" shoulder title in gilt brass. I presume he is "attached" to the Staff Corps. Also what is unusual is his collar badges, which are a large flaming grenade, with no banner of "NZE" to base (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 7003-543).

 - Above: A pair of single piece gilt brass Collar badges to the New Zealand Engineers. 10 flame, but a rough strike, lacking detail, they both have two pressed type copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark, and size 47mm by 27mm.

 - Above: A darkened brass Collar badge to the New Zealand Engineers. 10 flame, with separate bottom banner attached, with two copper looped lugs. No maker mark and size 45.5mm by 27mm.

 - Above: A gilt brass, single piece Collar badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Two copper wire loops to back. No maker mark and size 45mm by 27mm.

 - Above: A single piece, darkened copper Collar badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Two copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark. Size 47mm by 27.5mm.

 - Above: A pair of gilt fired brass, Collar badges to the New Zealand Engineers. Two loops to back (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: At some stage the New Zealand Engineers moved to wearing the British style of Royal Engineers Collar badge, with the "Ubique" in lower banner. This pair are the large gilt brass type, single piece, with two long loops to back. No maker mark.

- Above: A pair of fine bronze Officers shoulder titles to the New Zealand Engineers. Thin copper wire loops to back. No maker mark.

- Above: A pair of gilt brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Engineers. Hex lugs to back, with the maker mark impressed to the back of the "Z" to "J R Gaunt London". I have also seen it impressed to bottom edge.

 - Above: A Australian made, "Stokes & Sons" marked shoulder title to the New Zealand Engineers. Two copper looped lugs to back. Note the stippling between the letters, which is a feature of this maker.

- Above: A gilt brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Engineers. Hex lugs to back, but no maker mark. Probably Gaunt.

- Above: A sand cast shoulder title to the New Zealand Engineers. Two small copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.

 - Above: When supplies were short, you had to make do with what you could lay your hands on. The above titles are actually, New Zealand Rifle or "N.Z.R" titles, which have had the "R" modified at the end to create a "E" for New Zealand Engineers.

 - Opposite: An Army memo dated the 30th of Jan 1947, bringing up the issue of when the New Zealand Engineer Cap badge should be changed. It eludes to the fact that back in 1924, there was talk then of New Zealand adopting the British Royal Engineer Cap badge, with just a base banner change in title. This was not followed up, and it seems now too, there would be no change. The Corps in 1947 were granted the prefix "Royal", to their title, but the Corps of Royal New Zealand Engineers did not change their badge. It wasn't until the 8th of March 1954 that a Queens crown badge was submitted to the Queen for approval (Archive NZ - "Badges & Buttons - New Zealand Regiment" - FL48958703 & FL48958595).

WW2 Formation Patches

 The following are representations of the formations and unit patches of the New Zealand Engineer Corps elements of the 2NZEF, worn during WW2.
 The 2NZEF used 3 different systems of patches during WW2. Below left is a dark blue circular patch which was used as a formation patch with the below right, as part of type 1 patches, from 1935 to Sept 1940. While under type 2 and type 3 systems, it was just worn by itself on the upper sleeve by Divisional Engineer Corps units.

 - Opposite: The top half of a type 1 formation patch or type 2 or 3 unit patch for the New Zealand Engineer Corps. Size 36mm diameter (approximately - image from the internet).

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 - Above: ​A type 1, NZE Unit patch for the 8 Field Company. Size 60mm by 60mm (approximately - image from the internet).

 - Above: ​A type 1, NZE Unit patch for the 5 Field Park Company (image from the internet).

 - Above: ​A type 1, NZE Unit patch for the 5 Field Park Company (Light Aid Attachment - image from the internet).

 - Above: A bullion beret badge worn by Officers of the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Much toning to finish, with "UBIQUE" to lower banner. Size 53mm by 40mm roughly.

 - Above: A two piece, bi-metal Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Gilt and enamel center, with frosted silver wreath. Two long looped lugs to back. No maker mark.

Above: A similar two piece, bi-metal Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Gilt and enamel center, with frosted silver wreath. Two screw threads to back. No maker mark.

Above: A similar two piece, bi-metal Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. This is Gilt fired, with an enamel center, with frosted silver wreath. Solid to back, with two long lugs. No maker mark.

 - Above: Probably the most commonly found of the bi-metal Cap badges to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Gilt copper finish, with a enamel center, with white metal wreath. Two shorter copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark. Note there is some damage to enamel to base of wreath.

 - Above: A similar two piece, bi-metal Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Gilt fired and enamel center, with frosted silver wreath. Two long looped lugs to back. Note the lettering to base banner is slightly larger. No maker mark.

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 - Above: A two piece, anodised aluminium Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Gold tone and dark blue paint center, with a silver toned wreath. Two pins to back which would hold the badge on with clutches. No maker mark.

 - Above: A two piece, anodised aluminium Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Gold tone and dark blue paint center, with a silver toned wreath. Two long looped lugs to back. No maker mark.

 - Above: A two piece, anodised aluminium Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Gold tone and dark blue paint center, with a silver toned wreath. Two long looped lugs to back. Seems to be a heavier strike of the badge in this metal. No maker mark.

 - Above: A pair of small gilt fired and matt silvered Collar badge to the New Zealand Engineers. One piece Gilt Brass backing with separate attached  "Ubique" lower banner. One has long lugs to back, the other two pins, to be used with clutches. No maker mark.

 - Above: A pair of small gilt fired and polished silvered Collar badge to the New Zealand Engineers. One piece Gilt Brass backing with separate attached  "Ubique" lower banner. Both have long looped lugs to back. No maker mark.

 - Above Left: A anodised aluminium gold tone Collar badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Single piece, with two long pins to back to be used with clutches. No maker mark.
 - Above Right: Similar Collar badge in gilt brass to the New Zealand Engineers. Single piece, with two copper looped lugs. No maker mark.

National Stock Number 8455-98-106-5344 was assigned to "Shoulder Sleeve Insignia, RNZE, All Ranks" on the 27th of Aug 1980.
(Manufacturer was Arbi Monogram Ltd).
National Stock Number 8455-98-104-6589 was assigned to "Insignia, Service Hat and Service Cap, RNZE, All Ranks" on the 17th of Jan 1979.
National Stock Number 8455-98-104-6590 was assigned to "Insignia, Service Hat and Service Cap, RNZE, Gilt" on the 17th of Jan 1979.
National Stock Number 8455-98-104-6597 & 6599 was assigned to "Branch Of Service Insignia, RNZE, Collar, Gilt, Officers" on the 17th of Jan 1979.
National Stock Number 8455-98-104-6600 was assigned to "Branch Of Service Insignia, RNZE, Collar, Other Ranks" on the 17th of Jan 1979.
National Stock Number 8455-98-202-3961 was assigned to "Qualification Badge, RNZE Diver Barathea" on the 14th of Jul 1988.
National Stock Number 8455-98-202-3962 was assigned to "Qualification Badge, RNZE Diver Lichen Green" on the 14th of Jul 1988.
National Stock Number 8455-98-204-4341 was assigned to "Branch Of Service Insignia, RNZE - Mess" on the 11th of Sept 1995.

 - Above: Post 1961, shoulder titles to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Purple Navy on a Post Office Red felt background.

 - Opposite: A car or truck bumper badge to the Corps of Royal New Zealand Engineers. This huge cast metal badge would be mounted via the bolt at the base through the bumper of the car/truck. Solid, with no maker mark to back. Size of badge 118mm by 90mm. With stand 133mm.

 - Above: A Officers Bullion on Dark Blue material Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Engineers (image from the internet).

 - Above Left: A anodised aluminium, gold toned 19mm button to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Queens Crown, so post 1952, it has the maker details for "Gaunt, London".
 - Above Middle: A anodised aluminium, silver toned 19mm button to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Queens Crown, it has the maker details for "Badge & Button, London".
- Above Right: A anodised aluminium, silver toned 16mm button to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Queens Crown, it has the maker details for "Gaunt, London".

 - Above: A silver button-hole badge to the NZE. Maker marked to back to "MK" in a circle, for Mayer & Kean of Wellington on brass fitting. Size 21mm by 12mm.

 - Above and Opposite: A puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Khaki/Dark Blue/Khaki. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "6 3/4". Note the puggaree has been folded front side on.

 - Above: A puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Khaki/Dark Blue/Khaki. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "7". Note the puggaree has been folded side-on.
 - Opposite: The stable belt for the Corps of Royal New Zealand Engineers. Post Office Red, with two purple navy stripes. To the front of the chromed buckle is the image of the RNZE Cap badge (image from the internet).

 - Above: A 7 flame, flaming grenade rank badge, worn by NCO's with the rank above a Corporal on their sleeve above their rank chevrons (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: A 10 flame, flaming grenade rank badge, worn by NCO's with the rank above a Corporal on their sleeve above their rank chevrons (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: A rare cloth and embroidered thread Engine Trade sleeve badge. Light Khaki thread on a darkened khaki wool background (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: A possible WW2 New Zealand Bomb Disposal Group Sleeve badge. Described as a flaming grenade on a 1 inch by 2 1/2 inch dark blue background. It came in two grades, Scarlet flame for Officers & WO's, while a Khaki flame for all other ranks (image from the internet).

 - Above Right: An image named "Coad, Army Group" and dated the 12th of Feb 1944. It shows a group of NZE Officers and NCO's all wearing a similar badge to the above left to their right sleeve end. The Bomb Disposal Group, was formed on the 1st of May 1942 from  Territorial and Home Guard Volunteers. At its peak there were some 400 members with companies in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, while platoons were established in Hamilton, New Plymouth, Napier, Palmerston North and Dunedin. The purpose of the badge was to allow Home Guard members to enter all areas prohibited by authorities, without question or delay. Army members wore the insignia of the NZE, but also the badge to their right sleeve (Swainson/Woods Collection, Puke Ariki and District Libraries SW1944.2382).

 
 - Above Left, Above and Opposite: A superb collection of New Zealand Engineer Corps and Royal New Zealand Engineer Corps badges, sweetheart badges, bracelets, plaques and association pins. Date ranges from the inception of the Corps in 1911 to today (Dave Cash collection).

Fakes and Forgeries

Below is a fake New Zealand Engineers Cap badge. Its a bit pointless as this is fairly common and had such a long life in use. Anyway someone has done it.
 - Lacking detail to front, with stippling on the letters, especially the "NZE" which is not correct.
 - Back has OK detail to back, better than some casts, but the Lion and crown to top lack the back detail and have flat areas.
 - Two copper looped lugs are soldered on and are ribbon like.
 - Size 40mm by 25mm.

New Zealand Everyman's Hut.

 The Everyman's Hut operated during WW2 in New Zealand, in the training camps like Papapkura and Burnham.
They were a Christian organisation, much like the Y.M.C.A. but were founded in Australia in 1936, initially by Christian Businessmen, but likeminded New Zealanders adopted the concept, to allow New Zealand Defense personnel somewhere to have light refreshments, literature, Christian entertainment and witness.
 - Opposite: A darkened copper Cap badge worn by civilian personnel while in Camp on their uniform. It has two copper looped lugs to back, in a East/West configuration and is maker marked/impressed to "THEO MEYER, AUCK".

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 - Opposite: A letter head given to New Zealand troops training at Papakura Military Camp to write home. Other items seen include an Army Bible, with the Everyman's Hutt logo and "Burnham Military Camp" stamped inside it.
 When the above Cap badge came up for sale, two shoulder titles were also listed at the same time. The vendor confirmed that they came with the Badge. They were curved brass with "N.Z.E.H" for New Zealand Everyman's Hut. Prior to this, New Zealand badge references had inferred that they stood for "New Zealand Expeditionary Hospital", which turned out to be wrong!

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New Zealand Intelligence Corps

The New Zealand Intelligence Corps formed on the 1st of Jan 1942.
Motto: Forewarned Is Forearmed

 - Above: A bronze Cap badge to the New Zealand Intelligence Corps. Two long copper wire looped lugs to back, with the maker mark of "M & K Ld, W" for Mayer & Kean Limited, Wellington. Size 45mm by 46.5mm.

 - Above: A similar Cap badge to the New Zealand Intelligence Corps. Gilt brass in finish (image from the internet).

In 1987 the corps re-formed, but no New Zealand badge was issued, so the Corps worn the British version of the Intelligence Corps Cap and Collar badges in white metal.
In 1994 the corps was given permission to wear a New Zealand version, and the WW2 pattern was updated with a Queens crown.

 - Above: A darkened coloured Cap badge to the New Zealand Intelligence Corps with Queens Crown. Maker mark to back to "MAYER & TOYE, WGTN N.Z. (04) 3849 884", with two pins to use with clutches. Size is 42mm by 46mm.

 - Above: A darkened coloured Cap badge to the New Zealand Intelligence Corps with Queens Crown. No maker mark, with two pins to use with clutches. Size is 42mm by 45mm.

 - Above: A frosted white metal British Intelligence Corps Cap badge, worn by the New Zealanders from 1987 to 1994. No maker mark and two thread posts with nuts to back. Size 44mm by 33mm.

- Above: A darkened coloured Collar badge pair to the New Zealand Intelligence Corps. No maker mark to back and two pins to use with clutches. Size is 30.5mm by 32.5mm

- Above: A bronze coloured Cap badge to the New Zealand Intelligence Corps. Maker mark to back to "MAYER & TOYE, WGTN N.Z. (04) 3849 884", with two looped lugs. Size is 42mm by 45mm.

 - Opposite: A modern cloth shoulder title to the New Zealand Intelligence Corps. Green embroidered letters on a grey background.

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National Stock Number 8455-98-204-1152 was assigned to "Service Cap Insignia, NZ Intelligence Corps" on the 24th of Jun 1993.

WW1 Army Interpreters

 - Opposite: A single piece, gilt brass sleeve proficiency badge for British Army/Commonwealth Interpreter badge to translate between English and Egyptian. Two strips of brass to back, one at top and one at base to create 4 tangs to hold the badge onto the uniform sleeve. Worn by New Zealanders during WW1 stationed in Egypt and the surrounding area (Ian Hamilton Collection).

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Legion of Frontiersmen.

The Legion Of Frontiersman was formed in 1904, in Britain.
Motto: God Guard Thee
It was a civilian organisation which was founded on fears that Britain and its Empire were to be invaded. Its members saw themselves as a field intelligence corps that would watch over and protect the boundaries of the Empire.
Headquarters were based in London.
The New Zealand branch formed in 1911,  and spread around the country appealing to men of "active military service, liked hunting, "roughing it" and "exploring in wild places", of which New Zealand must have been able to offer plenty.
There were some notable members, including seven New Zealand VC winners from WW1 and one from WW2.
New Zealand members of the Legion wore a distinct uniform of black tunic, fawn pants and a lemon squeezer hat.

 - Opposite: A sadly unnamed image of a New Zealand Frontiersman wearing the rank of Sergeant to his black tunic. Note his Lemon Squeezer, which is worn with peaks "side on" to front, and with a Leather band. Cap badge, Collars of the Legion of Frontiersmen. Note also the chain-mail shoulder boards which have the metal "Frontiersmen" titles attached. To back of photo is "Devon Studios, P O Box 248, New Plymouth"

 - Opposite & Above: A gilt brass Cap and Collar badge set to the Legion of Frontiersmen. All have two copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark. Size of Cap is 42mm by 40mm, while Collars are 30mm by 27mm.

 - Above: A pair of gilt bass Collar badges to the Legion of Frontiersmen. Extra gilt seems to have been applied, and they are still die stamped, with two copper D shaped looped lugs to back. No maker mark and size 30mm by 27mm.
 - Opposite: A gilt brass Cap badge to the Legion of Frontiersmen. Long brass slider to back, with the maker mark on the back of the shield to "M & K Ltd, Wgton", for Mayer and Kean Ltd, Wellington". Size 43mm by 40mm.

 - Above: A matching pair of solid backed, gilt brass shoulder titles to the Legion of Frontiersmen. Two looped lugs to the back of each. No maker mark. Size 16mm by 63mm.

 - Opposite: A pair of metal chain-mail shoulder boards with anodised aluminium shoulder titles to the Legion of Frontiersmen. Note the hooks to ends to attach to the tunic. Roughly 210mm long by 150mm wide.  AA shoulder titles are 16mm by 63mm.

 - Above: A wedding portrait of 6/2532 Private Cecil Charles Baker and his wife, Hannah Irene Baker taken on the 22nd of July 1915, in Wellington, by Berry & Co. He is a member of "C" Company, 6th Reinforcements here, and wears a "LF" (Legion of Frontiersmen) badge to his peaked Cap. He also has the below type round membership badge for the Legion of Frontiersmen, just above the button of his right tunic pocket (Te Papa B.045511).

 - Above: An image of a Trooper Davies, of the New Zealand Mounted Rifles, likely a reinforcement at the time of the picture. Note the "LF" or Legion of Frontiersmen badge to the front of his slouch hat. He also has a Boer War era "Lion's Head" hook to the side of his hat, which uses a string attached to the inside of the sweatband of his hat to then hold back the side brim. To his shoulder board is a curved "NZMR" shoulder title, making this picture more WW1 than earlier (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-D0358).

 - Above: A New Zealand made, Legion of Frontiersmen buttonhole badge in gilt brass and enamel. To back is a buttonhole fitting with the membership number "626" stamped to back and the logo for "MK" in a circle for Mayer and Kean of Wellington. Likely made around the 1930's (image from the internet).

 - Above: A matching pair of silver tone anodised aluminium Collar badges to the Legion of Frontiersmen. Two aluminium looped lugs to the back of each in a East/West configuration. No maker mark and size 30mm by 28mm.

 - Above: A 23mm gilt brass, fixed shank button to the Legion of Frontiersmen. Maker marked to (sadly not readable)  "###### & Son Ltd ####DON ENG" to back. Likely J R Gaunt.

 - Above: An anodised aluminium, silver toned, brass backed, fixed shank 24mm button to the Legion of Frontiersmen. Maker marked to "GAUNT LONDON".

 - Above: An anodised aluminium, silver toned, fixed shank 24mm button to the Legion of Frontiersmen. Maker marked to "GAUNT B'HAM". Two vent holes to back.

 - Above: An anodised aluminium, silver toned, brass backed, fixed shank 24mm button to the Legion of Frontiersmen. No maker.

 - Above: A 17mm silver tone anodised aluminium fixed shank, brass backed button to the Legion of Frontiersmen. No maker marked to back.

Other sizes & maker marks found on the Buttons (B Jones collection):
Fronteirsman buttons: 13mm "JR Gaunt MTL", 16mm "Firmins London", 16.7mm "Firmins London", 16.7mm "Made in England" (gilt),  17.3mm (no maker), 23mm (no maker), 23mm "JR Gaunt & son Ltd London", 23mm "Gaunt London", 23mm "JR Gaunt & son London England", 23mm (no maker & unsure of metal), 23mm "JR Gaunt Montreal"(chrome)
"LF" buttons: 17mm (no maker), 16.8mm "Firmins London",  21mm "Firmins & sons Ltd London"

New Zealand Army Legal Service

The New Zealand Army Legal Department formed in 1927, and in November 1950, it changed its title to the New Zealand Army Legal Service.
Motto: JUSTITIA IN ARMIS (Justice in Arms).
Badge is described as "A Royal Crest, with a St. Edward's (Queen's) crown, surmounting a globe showing the continents of Europe, Asia and Africa, behind the globe a pair of crossed swords, points up, and in front of the globe the figure of Justice, all within a circlet with textured ground on which embossed JUSTITIA IN ARMIS, below the globe an upward scroll on which embossed ARMY LEGAL CORPS".
(note there are two patterns of badge).
Type 1 Badge - worn by the British from 1958 to 1978 - The NZ Army Legal Service adopted the British patterned badges.
In the British Army, many of the Army Legal Services functions were originally carried out by the Judge Advocate General (JAG). On 1 October 1948 an independent "Directorate of Army Legal Services" was formed from the JAG's office. Prior to 1958, Officers appointed to Army Legal Services were formally appointed to the Extra-Regimentally Employed list and wore those badges and buttons. Post 1958, they wore the below badge.

 - Above: A Bullion and Dark Blue cloth Beret Officers badge to the British/New Zealand Army Legal Service. Black backing cloth with no maker mark and size 46mm by 39.5mm.

 - Above & Above Right: A two piece Cap and Collar set to the British/New Zealand Army Legal Service. Possible Silver (though not marked) and enamel, with separate

 (continued) enamel backing plate to back, which is kept in place by vertical tangs. Note the "ARMY LEGAL SERVICE" to circular wreath. Two looped lugs to each, with no maker mark. Size of Cap 37mm by 30.5mm, while Collars are 28mm by 23.5mm.

 - Above: A two piece Collar badge to the British/New Zealand Army Legal Service. Possible Silver (though not marked) and enamel, with separate enamel backing plate to back, which has been soldered to back. Two pins to back to be used with clutches, with no maker mark. Size of Collar are 27.5mm by 22mm.

 - Above: Two Cap badges with the words "ARMY LEGAL SERVICE" to their circular wreaths. The above left, shows the back of a single piece (see below) Cap badge, with applied enamel to front. On the right, is the back of the above two piece badge, with separate black enamel disc, held in place by two metal tangs.

 - Opposite & Above: A single piece Cap and Collar set to the British/New Zealand Army Legal Service. Possible Silver (though not marked) and enamel, with note the "ARMY LEGAL SERVICE" to circular wreath. The Cap is die stamped, while the Collars are semi-solid to back. Two looped lugs to each, with no maker mark. Size of Cap 37mm by 30mm, while Collars are 28mm by 23mm.

Type 2 Badge - worn from 1978 - The NZ Army Legal Service adopted the British patterned badges.
In in the UK, in 1978, the Army Legal Service became a Corps in its own right, and meant a badge change. The wording was changed, with the motto moving to the circlet and the new title of "ARMY LEGAL CORPS" to the bottom scroll. In 1992 the Corps reverted back to a "Service" as a branch of the Adjutant General's Corps, but the 1978 patterned badge was retained.

 - Above: A silver plate and enamel Cap badge to the British/New Zealand Army Legal Service. Note the "ARMY LEGAL CORPS" to lower banner. Long looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Solid to back, and size 38mm by 30.5mm.

 - Above: A silver or silver plate and enamel Cap badge to the British/New Zealand Army Legal Service. This is semi-solid to back, with long looped lugs, but no maker mark. Size 39mm by 30.5mm.

 - Above: A silver or silver plate and enamel pair of Collar badges to the British/New Zealand Army Legal Service. Die stamped, with two looped lugs to back to each, but no maker mark. Note the Lions to top of Crown oppose each other. Size 30mm by 23.5mm.

National Stock Number 8455-98-104-6594 was assigned to "Insignia, Service Hat and Service Cap, Army Legal Service" on the 17th of Jan 1979.

 - Above: An unauthorised (and NOT worn) White letter on maroon coloured background shoulder title to the New Zealand Army Legal Service.

 - Above: A 14mm, gilt brass button to the New Zealand Army Legal Service. Maker marked to "GAUNT LONDON" (B Jones collection).

Royal New Zealand Army Logistics Regiment

The Royal New Zealand Army Logistics Regiment formed on the 9th Dec 1996 with the amalgamated 3 Corps
 - Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (R.N.Z.E.M.E)
 - Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps (R.N.Z.A.O.C)
 - Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport (R.N.Z.C.T)
Motto: Ma Nga Hua Tu Tangata (By Our Actions We Are Known).

 - Opposite & Above: Single piece Cap and Collar set in gilt metal and resin to the Royal New Zealand Army Logistics Regiment. Note the smaller stars to center, the Cap badge has screw posts to back, in a north/south configuration, while the 2 Collars have pins and clutches. No maker marks.

- Above: A two piece Cap and Collar badge with "large stars" to center in gilt metal and resin to the Royal New Zealand Army Logistics Regiment. Separate oval shield with swords on a gilt metal background. The Cap badge has screw posts to back, in a north/south configuration, while the Collar has pins and clutches. No maker mark to either.

 - Above: A chromed metal, 2 piece belt buckle to the Royal New Zealand Army Logistics Regiment. Cap badge to center, with Queens crown, and motto to wreath "Ma Nga Hua Tu-Tangata" - By our actions we are known.
To back is the maker mark of "Hobson & Son (London) Ltd". Size 70mm by 100mm.

 - Opposite: A two piece, with separate center shield and swords riveted (twice) to gilt backed Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Army Logistics Regiment. Two screw posts to back to be used with nuts in a North/South configuration. It has a plastic backing plate to the 2nd Combat Support Service Battalion (Light Green/White), RNZALR. No maker mark to either and size of Cap 52mm by 41mm, while backing plate is 53mm by 43.5mm.
 - Above: A plastic backing plate to the 3rd Combat Support Service Battalion (Red/Black), RNZALR (image from the internet).

 - Opposite & Above: A possible puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the Royal New Zealand Army Logistics Regiment, issued in 1998, and borrowed from the Royal New Zealand Provost Corps. Dark Blue/Dark Blue/Dark Blue. A slightly different shape to front to the usual puggaree, and marked inside  to "58" in pen for 58cm in size.

Long Range Desert Group

The Long Range Desert Group formed in June 1940 in Egypt with the goal of carry out deep penetration, covert reconnaissance patrols and intelligence missions from behind Italian lines, although sometimes they also engaged in combat operations.
Initially the unit was made up of mainly New Zealanders, and called the Long Range Patrol (LRP). This changed as numbers were also augmented with Southern Rhodesian and British volunteers.
They were highly successful, and the unit became legendary.
The kiwi's were to remain with the unit until just after May 1943, when they were withdrawn back to their original units.

 - Above: A cast brass cap badge to the Long Range Desert Group. Worn to detail to front, but correctly fretted between the letters, with the legs of the Scorpion in the correct places. Size 34mm diameter.

 - Above: Another Cap badge in Gilt brass to the Long Range Desert Group. Much better detail, with the finish now toned (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: A British made, cast brass Cap badge to the LRDG (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: A Cap badge worn by 1290 Trooper L. A. (Bill) Willcox, MM, of the 2NZEF.  Bill was part of 2 Divisional Cavalry Regiment, which became the LRDG. His MM was gazetted on the 31st Jan 1941 for action at Ain Dua, Libya (Ian Hamilton Collection.

 - Above: A LRDG Cap badge purportedly made in New Zealand (Ian Hamilton Collection).

- Above: A Cap badge size, sweethearts badge in Silver to the LRDG. Brooch fitting to back (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above & Opposite: A gilt brass Cap badge with backing cloth to the Long Range Desert Group. It is accompanied with a letter of authenticity from the Secretary of the New Zealand  Long Range Desert Group Association (Tim Vincent Collection).

 - Above: A small Silver unit lapel badge to the Long Range Desert Group. Marked "Stg Sil" and "TMJ". It was made by Taranaki Manufacturing Jewelers of Stratford. Size 19mm diameter.

 - Above: A small Silver lapel pin in hand cut/engraved Silver (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above:  A small Silver lapel pin worn by 1290 Trooper L. A. (Bill) Willcox, MM. Note the non-fretting around the letters "LRDG", which is a feature of "Young & Co, Auckland" made ones (Ian Hamilton Collection.

 - Opposite: A extremely rare New Zealand Long Range Patrol lapel pin in Silver (Ian Hamilton Collection).
 - Above: Another extremely rare badge, a New Zealand Long Range Patrol Association badge. Its estimated that some 70 odd Stirling Silver badges were made in Egypt during the war, and presented to surviving members to wear at the time.
 In Feb 2019, one of these badges came up for sale on a New Zealand Auction site, and sold for $17, 180 NZD or just under 10,000 euros.
An amazing sum for a piece of Silver no larger than 35mm in height!

 - Above: A period LRDG Sweethearts badge made in Egypt in Silver, for a Kiwi. Note the "Kia Ora" or Hello in Maori to the top. Brooch fitting with a safety chain attachment (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: A darkened bronze, small than a regular Cap badge pin, to the LRDG. Made by "Bock" of Wellington, with brooch fitting to back (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: A 1980's reunion badge, given to veterans of the LRDG (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: A New Zealand made (Hansen & Berry) 50th Reunion badge to the LRDG (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: A WW2 era shoulder title set to a Kiwi member (obtained from a Vets Sister) of the LRDG (Ian Hamilton Collection).
 - Opposite: A LRDG NZ made Veterans blazer badge. Approximately 100mm in diameter (Ian Hamilton Collection.

 - Opposite: A mother of pearl LRDG sweethearts badge. 20mm in diameter, it has a small brooch fitting on a cross bar to the reverse.
 - Above: A silver tie pin possibly made for reunions for the NZ LRDG. It has Egyptian hallmarks to the back and the pin, and measures 15mm by 48mm.

 - Above: Three wooden Veterans plaques from members of the LRDG. The right was owned by Ian Judge, a ex member of the LRDG (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above & Opposite: A book taken by 1290 Trooper L. A. (Bill) Willcox, MM to LRDG reunions for Ian Hamiton, and where Bill was able to collect signatures of veterans for him (Ian Hamiton Collection).

Fakes and Forgeries

 - Opposite: Anything Long Range Desert Group is faked, with the most common being the Cap badge. Opposite is probably around the 1980's in make, its in brass, which has toned with 40 odd years of age. This is by no means a definitive list of what to look for, but its a start. The likelihood of finding a badge from a Vet, with 100% provenance is slim now-a-days, and with price between $1000 to $3500+ NZD for a genuine badge, the fakers are getting better.
1. Note the stippling to outer border wreath, originals are smooth.
2. This is currently the biggest give-a-way. On originals, the tail of the Scorpion does NOT touch its 3rd leg.
3. On this fake, there seems to be two ridges on the inner and outer edge. The above examples have a single ridge on the inner edge.
4. On originals, the letters are fretted out for the inside of the top of the "R", "D" and inside of the "G", plus they are joined at the lower base between each other. Note I have recently seen a badge which sold with the tail touching the foot, but with the letters fretted out possibly by hand. It did have a smooth border, with the inner ridge. Fakers getting better?

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New Zealand Machine Gun Corps

The New Zealand Machine Gun Corps was forming January 1916 in Egypt. Prior to this, each regiment had their own Machine Gun Section.
There were 2 New Zealand formations, one deployed to France, and the other to Palestine and the Middle East during WW1.
The NZMGC in France went with the newly formed New Zealand and ANZAC Divisions in April 1916. They were disbanded at the end of the war in 1918.
The NZMGC in the Middle East would form a Mounted Squadron and ride with the NZ Mounted Rifles and NZ Camel Corps. They disbanded in 1919.
During WW2, the NZMGC formed again as the 27th (Machine Gun) Battalion of the 2NZEF in 1940 and would go on to fight in Greece, Crete, North Africa and Italy. They disbanded in 1945, and as a overseas serving unit in the 2NZEF, would have worn the NZ "Onwards" Badge.

Pictorial evidence shows, when the NZMGC initially arrived in France in April 1916, they wore the British MGC badge (with NO "NZ" to base".

Motto: (none in the 1st NZEF - as noted in R17187868 AALI W3508 7291 Archives NZ)

 - Above: A single piece, semi-solid Bronze British/New Zealand Officers Cap badge to the Machine Gun Corps. Three blades or tangs to back and maker plaqued to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 44mm by 50mm.

 - Above: A other ranks, single piece British/New Zealand Machine Gun Corps Cap badge in gilt brass. Three copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark. Size 45mm by 51mm.

 - Opposite: A scarce 3 tanged/bladed WW1 New Zealand Machine Gun Corps Officers Bronze Cap badge. Sadly not maker marked, but has a interesting double tang to top, back of crown, more commonly found on Canadian Badges.
 - Above: A matching pair of solid bronze Officer collar badges to the WW1 New Zealand Machine Gun Corps. Both have been repaired, as they were mounted on a wooden shield, with a bolt attached, and lugs removed. Three looped lugs to the back of each, with the maker mark impressed to center to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 31mm by 37mm.

 - Above: A cast, semi-solid bronze Officers Collar badge to the WW1 New Zealand Machine Gun Corps. Maker plaqued to back to "FIRMIN LONDON". Four copper looped lugs to back. Size 32mm by 36mm.

 - Above: A two piece, gilt brass Cap badge to the WW1 New Zealand Machine Gun Corps. Note the solid area beneath the crown. The "NZ" is separately attached. Three copper looped lugs to back. Size 46mm by 50mm.

 - Opposite & Above: A gilt brass Cap and Collar badge set to the WW1 New Zealand Machine Gun Corps. All are maker marked, with a plaque to back to "J R GAUNT LONDON". The Collars have a oval shaped plaque. All have three copper looped lugs to back. Size of Cap is 45mm by 51mm, while the Collars are 32mm by 37mm.

 - Above: A pair of gilt brass Collar badges to the WW1 New Zealand Machine Gun Corps. Maker marked, with a rectangular plaque to back to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size of Collar is 31.5mm by 36mm.

 - Above: A back shot showing the two types of maker plaque found on the New Zealand Machine Gun Corps Collar badge by J R Gaunt London. Top is the oval type, while bottom is the more common, rectangular type.

 - Above: A classic image taken of the time during WW1. Bill Massey is behind the Machine Gun (at the time, Prime Minister of New Zealand), while Sir Joseph Ward is feeding in the belt to the gun (he was deputy leader throughout WW1,  with New Zealand having a coalition Government). A sprinkling of Staff Officers seated to front, with red bands to their caps and tabs to their collars. To back are members of the New Zealand Machine Gun Corps. Many wear the crossed gun Cap badge with NZ below to their Lemon Squeezers.

 - Above Left: A solid, gilt brass, three piece Collar badge to the WW1 New Zealand Machine Gun Corps. Size 32mm by 36mm.

 - Above: Same Collar badge to just show the back, with the impressed maker mark of "J R GAUNT LONDON". Note the unusual reinforcement bars to back of crown, and the separate "NZ" brazed to back. Three copper looped lugs to back.

 - Above Right: An image of "Ernie", with sadly no surname, wearing a pair of gilt brass New Zealand Machine Gun Corps Collar badges. To his shoulder strap is a curved "NEW ZEALAND" title. Note the photographer's details of "Walter Lee, Grantham" to lower left corner, which is where the Machine Gunners trained in the UK, prior for their departure to France. To back of card is written "To Fred, with best wishes, from Ernie. 21/7/18".

 - Above: A unmarked Collar badge in gilt brass to the WW1 New Zealand Machine Gun Corps. Three D shaped copper looped lugs to back, so likely Gaunt, but not marked. Size 31mm by 36mm.

 - Above Left: A small, cast brass Collar badge to the New Zealand Machine Gun Corps. Likely Middle Eastern made, it has two copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark. Note missing the right barrel end. Size 28mm by 24mm.
 - Above Right: Again, a cast brass Collar badge to the New Zealand Machine Gun Corps. Two ribbon like copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark. Size is 30mm by 35mm.

 - Above: A British made gilt brass Machine Gun Corps Cap badge with two copper looped lugs to back at base. A slider has been added, which has had the "NZ" attached (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: A piece of trench art? A standard brass Machine Gun Corps Cap badge, with three copper looped lugs to back, but with the addition of a New Zealand Rifles (NZR) Infantry shoulder title attached by two bolts to base.

 - Above: A collar size 9ct Gold sweethearts badge to the New Zealand Machine Gun Corps. Brooch fitting to back and a hallmark stamp of "9ct".

 - Above: A pair of WW1 shoulder titles to the New Zealand Machine Gun (N.Z.M.G). Two hex type brass lugs to back to each, and a maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London" to back of "Z".

 - Above: A cast brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Machine Gun (N.Z.M.G), with two copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark (image from the internet).

 - Above: A pair of WW1 shoulder titles to the New Zealand Machine Gun Corps (N.Z.M.G.C). Two hex type brass lugs to back to each, and a maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London" to back of "Z" on one and "M" on the other.

The following are cast brass sleeve qualification badges for a New Zealand Machine Gun Corps. The New Zealand Army adopted many of the British sleeve qualification badges throughout its history, but also sometimes personalised its own awards. Possible a private purchase item sold to the troops station in the middle East.

- Above: A cast brass "MG" (Machine Gun) sleeve qualification badge, with Fern leaf wreath. Two Copper looped lugs to back cast or integrated into  the back. No maker mark and size 35mm by 40mm.

 - Above: A cast brass "HG" (Hotchkiss Gun) sleeve qualification badge, with Fern leaf wreath (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: A cast btass "LG" (Lewis Gun) sleeve qualification badge, within Fern leaf wreath. Two Copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark. Size 31mm by 37mm.

 - Above: A cast brass "LMG" (Light Machine Gun) sleeve qualification badge with Fern leaf wreath. Two Copper looped lugs to back but no maker mark. Size 34mm by 38.5mm.

 - Above: A unknown badge at this stage, of a Kings crown within a Fern leaf wreath. Cast brass, with copper lugs to back (one missing), it has no maker mark. Possibly a Company Sergeant Majors crown to be worn above his chevrons with a Kiwi touch (Ian Hamilton collection).

Re-issue of the Badge in WW2

With the outbreak of WW2 and the formation of the 2NZEF, it was decided to also form a specific Machine Gun unit. On the 3rd of Oct 1939, Officers and NCO's began to gather to form the 27th (Machine Gun) Battalion at Burnham Military Camp. Some days later, 700 men would then follow from all over New Zealand. They were organised as follows:

 - the 1st Commanding Officer - Lieut Colonel Inglis
 - 1 Company - Men from North Auckland, Auckland and Waikato
 - 2 Company - Taranaki, Wellington West Coast, Wellington, Hawke's Bay and Wairarapa
 - 3 Company - South Island
 - 4 Company - members of Scottish Territorial units and men of Scottish descent
 - HQ Company
 Newly purchased Vickers Machine Guns also arrived from Lithgow works in Australia and were unpacked and put into use immediatly as the men trained.
Importantly the Regimental badge adopted in New Zealand was the crossed-gun emblem - which was issued  to all members on the 11th of Oct 1939.
But when the Battalion left New Zealand on the 5th of Jan 1940, their badge (like all of the 2NZEF) was replaced with the "ONWARDS" badge.
The Battalion left with the 1st Echelon, arriving in Egypt on the 12th Feb 1940.
The following are photo's of men from the 27th Battalion in New Zealand.
 - Above Right: A small silver plated brass and enamel lapel pin to the 27th New Zealand Machine Gun (N.Z.M.G) Infantry Battalion Association. In the colours of the Battaion Red/Dark Blue, with no maker mark to back, with a long pin attached to center.

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- Above: Two images of 9431 Temporary Corporal Walter Richard Phipps of Nelson, who was sadly killed on the 7th of July 1942 aged 30 in the Western Desert and is buried in El Alamein War Cemetery, Egypt. He was part of 27th (Machine Gun) Battalion and wears the NZMGC Cap and Collar badge to his hat and tunic. Note the 1908 Patt belt worn in the above right picture. Clearly reused stock from a earlier conflict. The the image would have been taken prior to his departure to Egypt on the 5th of Jan 1940 (Both images from the Auckland Cenotaph, but above right is also available on the Nelson Museum collection 188806).

 - Above: An image of 43176 James Flannigan Cuthbert, here a member of the 27th Machine Gun Battalion. He would later served in the 34th (Mixed) Battalion which were part of the 3NZEF. Note the earlier stubby barrelled Cap badge, which was worn by WW1 Reinforcements (Nelson Mueseum collecton 189323)

 - Opposite: An image possible of 7389 Rhoderick Clinton Mayers (image is entitled Mayers, man). He is wearing a gilt brass Cap badge and Collar set to the New Zealand Machine Gun Corps. Note the 1937 Patt belt (Nelson Museum collection 188575).
 - Above: A possible match to two brothers, left is 7342 Laurence (Laurie) Charles Martin, 27th Machine Gun Battalion, while right is 5732 Athol George Martin, 19th (Wellington) Battalion. Laurie is wearing a NZMGC badge set, while Athol is wearing a 5th (Wellington Rifles) Infantry Regt set. Both men became POW's during WW2 (Nelson Museum collection 183203).

 - Above: A British cloth sleeve trade badge for the "Lewis Gun" (LG) worn by Kiwi gunners on their lower sleeve. Embroidered thread on a khaki wool background. No maker to back, but someone has written on the back in pen the date "12-10-33". 62mm by 50mm.

 - Above: A similar cloth sleeve trade badge for the "Lewis Gun" (LG). Embroidered thread on a khaki wool background. No maker to back (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: A British sleeve trade badge for the "Machine Gun" (MG), again, worn by Kiwi gunners on their lower sleeve. Two tone embroidered thread on a khaki wool background. No maker to back (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above Left: A British sleeve trade badge for the "Lewis Gun" (LG) worn by Kiwi gunners on their lower sleeve. A gilt brass badge, one piece, with two short looped lugs to back.
 - Above Right: A British sleeve trade badge for the "Machine Gun" (MG), again, worn by Kiwi gunners on their lower sleeve. A gilt brass badge, two piece, with separate "MG", brazed onto Laurel leaf frame, with two short looped lugs to back.

The following patches were permitted to be worn by the New Zealand Machine Gun Corps as per General Order 496 dated the 31st Jan 1918.
Like their Infantry counterparts, they were to be worn on the center back of the tunic, directly below the collar.

 - Above: Headquarters New Zealand Machine Gun Corps - Blue Star on Black square (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: 1st Coy New Zealand Machine Gun Corps - Yellow Star on Black square (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: 2nd Coy New Zealand Machine Gun Corps - Grey Star on Black square (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: 3rd Coy New Zealand Machine Gun Corps - Green Star on Black square (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: 4th Coy New Zealand Machine Gun Corps - Black Star on Red square (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: 4th Coy New Zealand Machine Gun Corps - A variation, this patch is much larger than the others (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: 5th Coy New Zealand Machine Gun Corps - Red Star on Black square (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: A New Zealand Machine Gun Squadron - Red over Black rectangle worn by Machine Gunners who were stationed with the New Zealand Mounted Rifles in the Middle East in WW1. Permitted to be worn from the 15th of July 1917 as per General Order 359, and on the left side of the slouch hat, on the cloth Puggaree (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Opposite: A bullion thread and black material Blazer badge to the New Zealand Machine Gun Corps. King crowned, it has no maker to back. Size 83mm by 107mm.

Fakes & Forgeries

Below is a copy of the New Zealand Machine Gun Corps Cap badge. This is not the only one. For many year a gilt brass, die stamped version has been produced in the UK, I presume from original dies, which has a slider to back. This version has
 - Detail is OK to front, but one piece. Originals have the "NZ" brazed to base of the crossed guns.
 - To back, its all wrong. Usually the NZMGC badge has three lugs, and this can be seen in the blue circles to the below center picture.
 - To back is stippled and pitted, with a flat filed area (red circles), where the excess brass has been removed and filed down flat from the mold.
 - Two short copper brass lugs are brazed on, but are not a type encountered on the originals, which should be three anyway.
 - Size 45mm by 50mm.

Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps

The New Zealand Medical Corps has a long history, with volunteer units or companies forming in the early 1900's in the 5 Volunteer Military districts.
Initially it was formed on the 11th of May 1908.
From 1911, the New Zealand Army Medical Corps formed, with its Territorial counterpart, the New Zealand Medical Corps.

 - Opposite: In 1911, the New Zealand Army Headquarters asked all units to submit badge designs for their units. The G.O.C (General Officer Commanding - General Godley) reviewed and approved most designs. He pushed back on units such as the NZ Field Artillery, New Zealand Garrison Artillery, Corps of Signals and the units of the New Zealand Field Ambulance, who wanted individual badges. General Godley was in favour of universal patterns for most Corps. This design by the New Zealand Field Ambulance was rejected in favour of a similar badge described as follows:
Cap Badge - On the 10th of July 1911, approval was given for a "Badge of the R.A.M.C. (substituting lettering "New Zealand Medical Corps" below), & Motto "Semper agens - Semper quietus"".

(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Current Base/HQ: Linton Military Camp
Motto: SEMPER AGENS - SEMPER QUIETUS (Always alert, always calm).

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The badge has had a long life, but there are numerous variations in style of crown, materials used, and the wording to the lower banner of the badge. 

 - Opposite: A pre 1911 shoulder title to the New Zealand Amy Medical Department (N.Z.A.M.D). This was part of the Permanent Force of the New Zealand Army.

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N.Z. Army Medical Corps Type

 The following badge has been touted as the first type of New Zealand Medical Corps Badge worn by the Permanent Force from 1911.
But the way the Cap badge is made, and the quality of the strike of both it and the Collars, makes these badges feel more like a Reinforcement badge, sold as a private purchase variation during WW1. The number of Cap badges I have seen (3 or 4) all have hex type brass lugs to back, much like what is found on WW1 Reinforcement badges. The Collars can also be found with either wire or hex type lugs.
One would presume, like all other Corps post 1911, that J R Gaunt would have been engaged, and therefore a "N.Z. ARMY MEDICAL CORPS" badge produced by this manufacturer, but I have yet to see one with their maker mark.
Also, sadly the outline and small banner to base means that pictorial evidence is near impossible to confirm or deny when this badge was worn.
J R Gaunt did make the "NEW ZEALAND MEDICAL CORPS" type bannered badge as discussed further below.

 - Above: A gilt brass Cap badge with the banner N. Z. Army Medical Corps. This badge is scarce , with two hex type brass lugs, in a East/West configuration to back and no maker mark. Size 43mm by 31.5mm.
 - Opposite: A pair of polished gilt brass N.Z. Army Medical Corps Collar badges. Note one has a void crown. Both have two hex type brass lugs to back (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: A matching pair of gilt brass collar badges with the banner "N.Z.A.M.C" opposed to the part full wording to the Cap badge opposite. Two brass looped lugs to the back of each in a East/West configuration, with no maker mark. Size 36mm by 25.5mm.

The Different Wording to the Banner

In theory, the wording on the banner to the badges falls broadly into the following overlaping periods:
 - From 1911 the Permanent Forces Medical Department was formed into the New Zealand Army Medical Corps (N.Z.A.M.C).
 - From 1911 the Territorial Medical Force was formed into the New Zealand Medical Corps (N.Z.M.C).
 - From  about 1915 – 1923 a badge with the words N.Z Medical Corps in the lower banner was worn. Some of the badges come with a slider, which may indicate a British origin of this badge.
 - During WW1 - a badge with the words New Zealand Medical Corps in lower banner was worn.
 - In 1947, the Territorial and Permanent Force Medical units combined to form the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps.

The N.Z.M.C Type

- Above: A gilt fired brass and Silver (not marked) Officers Cap badge to the Territorial "N.Z.M.C." (New Zealand Medical Corps). Blade or tangs to back, but no maker mark. Size 43mm by 30mm.

 - Above: A darkened two piece bronze Officers Cap badge to the Territorial "N.Z.M.C." Separate lower banner held on by wires to frame. Semi-solid to back, with no maker mark. Two copper looped lugs and size 43.5mm by 31.5mm.

 - Above: A similar darkened two piece bronze Officers Collar badge to the Territorial "N.Z.M.C." Separate lower banner held on by wires to frame. Semi-solid to back, with no maker mark. Two copper looped lugs and size 35mm by 25mm.

Stokes & Sons of Melbourne made a number of badges for the New Zealand Army around the period of WW1 including the "N.Z.M.C" badge.

 - Above: A gilt brass, solid backed Cap badge to the N.Z.M.C. Two copper round looped lugs to back and the maker mark, stamped into the lower back of the banner to "STOKES & SONS, MELB". Size 44mm by 30mm.

 - Above: A solid backed, gilt brass Collar badge pair to the "N.Z..M.C." Both have two copper round looped lugs to back, and the maker mark of "STOKES & SONS, MELB". One has its stamped into back, while the other has it in raised letters. Size 36mm by 25mm.

 - Above: A darkened bronze, solid backed Cap badge to the N.Z.M.C. Two copper round looped lugs to back and the maker mark, stamped into the lower back of the banner to "STOKES & SONS, MELB". Size 44mm by 30mm.

 - Above: A matching pair (Left & Center) and other (right) of solid backed, darkened bronze Collar badges to the "N.Z..M.C." All have two copper round looped lugs to back, and the maker mark of "STOKES & SONS, MELB". The lower picture shows the maker mark variation  with two which have raised letters, and one which is stamped into back. Size 36mm by 25mm.

 - Above: A darkened bronze, solid backed Cap badge to the N.Z.M.C. Two copper round looped lugs to back and the maker mark, in raised letters to the lower back of the banner to "STOKES & SONS, MELB". Size 44mm by 30mm.

 - Opposite: A rare NZ made WW1 era peaked cap, with a N.Z.M.C Cap badge to front. The badge is the solid backed type, in gilt brass, made by "STOKES & SONS, MELB".

 - Above: Same hat, showing the small Post 1911 patt New Zealand Forces buttons to side, securing the chin-strap.

 - Above: Same hat, showing the top, which is reinforced to edge, inside, with a metal ring, to hold its shape.

 - Above: Showing the inside of the hat with lining and leather sweat band. Note the duel riveted vent holes to side.

 - Above: Time and moth have been hard on this hat. Just a rear view, showing back seam.

 - Above: A close-up of the make mark, stamped to the inside of the liner indicating a size "7" and made by the Kaiapoi Woolen M.F.G. Co Ltd. Sadly the details of the owner were not filled out.

 - Above: A die stamped, gilt brass Cap badge to the N.Z.M.C. Difference in crown to top, with thin wire lugs to back. No maker mark and size 42mm by 29mm.

 - Above: A solid, darkened bronze Cap badge to the N.Z.M.C. Same difference in crown to top, with thin wire lugs to back. No maker mark and size 42mm by 29mm.

 - Above: A die stamped, gilt brass Cap badge to the N.Z.M.C. A slightly elongated style of badge, with two hex type brass lugs to back. No maker mark and size 45mm by 30mm.

 - Above: A die stamped, gilt brass Collar badge to the N.Z.M.C. Again, a elongated style of badge, with two small hex type brass lugs to back. No maker mark and size 37mm by 25mm.

 - Opposite Left: A solid backed Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. This is in gilt version, which has been brooched to back. No maker mark.

 - Above: A ground dug Collar badge in die stamped brass to the N.Z.M.C. Two large hex type lugs to back, likely brass. Overall the badge has turned dark with being in the soil. Size 36mm by 25mm.

 - Opposite & Above: A solid backed, cast brass Collar badge to the N.Z.M.C. Two copper looped lugs to back, and a inscription has been engraved to back "From George to Ena". Size 35mm by 25mm.

A Rare Survivor 

 - Above: The above tunic was rescued by a fellow collector from a skip in Auckland a few years back. Its named to 3/1309 Cecil Theodore Deverick. The tunic has a pair of "N.Z.M.C." gilt brass Collar badges, a pair of curved "NZMC" shoulder titles to its straps, 4 star "New Zealand Forces" buttons and a 4 year service chevron to the right sleeve cuff. Note no Geneva Cross badge. Though Cecil was assigned to Ambulance, he seems to have held a records or Staff roll.
Cecil started his service on the 29th of Oct 1915 and spent his entire service on the New Zealand No. 2 Hospital Ship - HMHS Marama. He was discharged on the 19th of April 1919. He embarked three times from New Zealand, the Marama's 1st, 4th and 5th voyages from New Zealand to Europe and then return.

 - Above & Opposite: Cecil wrote his name twice in his tunic, including above, with the name of his ship. Opposite shows his tunic today with the addition of a Armband, hat and belt (and a replacement button to front).

N.Z. Medical Corps Type

 - Above: A darkened brass Cap badge, to the N.Z. Medical Corps. Slider to back, with no maker mark. Size 42mm by 30mm.

 - Above: A similar darkened brass Cap badge to the N.Z. Medical Corps. Slider to back, with no maker mark. Differences in crown and wreath. Size 43mm by 30mm.

 - Above: A die stamped, darkened brass Cap badge to the N.Z. Medical Corps. Two thin wire copper loops to back. No maker mark and size 42mm by 30mm.

 - Above: A die stamped, darkened brass Collar badge to the N.Z. Medical Corps. Two thin wire copper loops to back. No maker mark and size 33mm by 24mm.

New Zealand Medical Corps Type

- Above: A semi-solid gilt brass Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Maker plaque to the back of the crown to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Two tangs to back and size 43mm by 31mm.

- Above: A solid darkened bronze Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Maker impressed to the back, below crown to "J R GAUNT, LONDON". Two tangs to back and size 42mm by 30mm.

 - Above: An image of Captain Dr. Walker of the New Zealand Medical Corps dated 1917-1918. He likely wears the above Cap badge with long "NEW ZEALAND MEDICAL CORPS" lower banner, but his collars appear to be "N.Z.M.C" type, all darkened finish (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-W4749).

- Above: A semi-solid, darkened bronze Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Marker plaqued to back of crown to "FIRMIN LONDON". Size 43mm by 31mm.

- Above: A semi-solid, darkened bronze Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. No maker and two tangs to back. Size 43mm by 30.5mm.

- Above: A semi-solid, darkened bronze Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. No maker and two looped lugs to back. Size 43.5mm by 31mm.

- Above: A solid, darkened bronze Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. No maker and two looped lugs to back. Size 41mm by 29.5mm.

 - Above: A scarce single piece, Silver with gilt finish Collar badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Maker mark to top back to "J R GAUNT LONDON", which is impressed. Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back. Size 34mm by 24.5mm.

 - Above: A solid backed, gilt brass Collar badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps, with the maker mark impressed in a curve to back to "GAUNT LONDON". Two D shaped looped copper lugs to back and size 34mm by 24mm.

 - Above: A pair of darkened bronze collar badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Solid to back, with both having a maker mark impressed to back with one curved to "GAUNT LONDON", and one straight to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Both have two copper looped D shaped lugs, with size 34mm by 24.5mm.

 - Above: A pair of solid darkened Officers Collar badges to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Thick copper wire lugs to back, similar to what is found on Stokes & Sons of Melbourne made badge. No maker mark and size 29mm by 25mm

 - Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Two copper looped lugs to back and a maker plaque, behind crown to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 42mm by 30mm.

 - Above: A matching pair of gilt brass Collar badges to the New Zealand Medical Corps. These both have D shaped copper looped lugs to back and a maker plaque, at base back to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 34.5mm by 25mm.

 - Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Two looped lugs to back, but no maker. Size 44mm by 30mm.

 - Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Narrower crown, with two copper looped lugs. No maker mark and size 42.5mm by 31mm.

 - Above: A die stamped, gilt brass New Zealand Medical Corps Cap badges. Twisted copper wire lugs to back, with no maker mark. Wide crown to top and size 44mm by 32mm.

 - Above: A die stamped, gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Not maker marked and with two hex type brass lugs to back. Size 43mm by 31mm.

- Above: A solid crowned gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Two copper looped lugs and no maker mark. Size 44mm by 32mm.

 - Above: A matching pair of gilt brass Collar badges to the New Zealand Medical Corps. No maker mark, but likely Gaunt. Two D shaped copper looped lugs, and size 34.5mm by 25mm.

 - Above: A small Collar badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Slightly different as they have various parts voided. Short copper looped lugs to back and no maker mark. Size 31.5mm by 23mm.

 - Above: A matching pair of small type Collar badge with the banner "New Zealand Medical Corps". Voided crowns with copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark and size 31mm by 22.5mm.

 - Above: A sand cast Collar badge to the NZ Medical Corps. Two ribbon like lugs are cast into the back of the badge. No maker mark.

 - Above Right: A solid backed, Silver sweethearts badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Brooch fitting to back, it is impressed to back of crown to "STERLING SILVER" and to base (upside down in a curve) to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 34mm by 24.5mm.

 - Above: A pair of matching gilt brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Medal Corps. Impressed to back to "J R Gaunt, London". Short hex type brass lugs to back.

 - Above: A pair of brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Medical Corps by "Stokes & Sons, Melb". Copper looped lugs to back. Note the stippled finish between the letters to front, a characteristic of this manufacturer.

 - Above: A group shot of 4 New Zealand Medical Corps chaps taken in 1915. To back is the note in pen "Dear Millie, Have not received that promised photo of yours yet. This was taken in Cairo (Egypt) by gas light the other night. We are still in the land of sand script sorrow. Love from Bill." It was to a Miss M Kirkman, P.O, Napier, N.Z.

 - Above: Two images of 3/2611 Pte. William Henry Barker, who started his service as part of the 20th Reinforcements, New Zealand Medical Corps. In the photo on the left, he wears a peaked cloth cap with a NZMC Cap badge, and matching collars to his tunic (what type of banner, I cannot see). On his shoulder boards are the number "20" for 20th Reinforcements, and "N.Z.M.C" in brass. He also has a Medical trade patch, in the form of a "Geneva Cross" to his upper left sleeve. The right image is similar, but without the cap.

 - Opposite: A WW1 era Stirling Silver bar broach commemorating the 3rd New Zealand Field Ambulance which served in France and the western front. To the left is the New Zealand Division Symbol, center a New Zealand Medical Corps Cap badge, and right a Red Cross Symbol. On the bar of the brooch are the words "No 3.  N.Z. F. AMB". Size 19mm by 38mm.
From the Auckland Star - 15th Feb 1918 - Page 3
 "Mr. J. F. Bailey, of Auckland, has received a very striking tribute of the esteem and liking with which his brother Lee, Corporal Joseph Bailey, of the New Zealand Medical Corps, who was killed in the Somme Battle, was regarded. The unit of which Corpl. Bailey was a member has sent a gold brooch, very tastefully

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designed, bearing a small reproduction of the Medical Corps regimental badge, flanked by a red cross and a fern leaf. In an accompanying letter Lieut.-Colonel Hardie Neil says: "The brooch is a token of the affection and esteem with which Corporal Bailey was regarded. We have not forgotten him and the New Zealand Divisional Orchestra, which undoubtedly owes its origin to him... I personally cannot help regretting his death still, for he was responsible for some of our happiest hours, and was very loyal and helpful." Corporal Bailey enlisted with the Rifle Brigade, to which he was attached in the Medical Corps."

 - Opposite: A collection of the three types of bar broach commemorating the 3rd New Zealand Field Ambulance.  Gold and enamel to top, Silver and enamel to center and all brass to base.


 - 3/1752 Lance Corporal Joseph Bailey was Killed in Action on the 16th of September 1916 at age 44. His occupation prior to WW1 was a Musician. He was assigned to the 3rd New Zealand Field Ambulance on the 15th of March 1916, but there is no mention of him ever being with the New Zealand Rifle Brigade on his service record. Joseph is buried at Caterpillar Valley Cemetery, Longueval, the Somme, France.


 - 3/1307 Lieutenant-Colonel James Hardie Neil. A long service Officer, who saw action in the Boer War, WW1 and WW2.  He commanded 3rd New Zealand Field Ambulance during WW1.

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 - Above:  A embroidered star in Blue on khaki wool to be worn in pairs on the Collar of a man's khaki uniform. Size is approximately 40mm diameter with a pale cotton backing. I have yet to see a photo of these being worn and this could be a proficiency star.
 - Opposite: A 15th (North Auckland) chap in hospital blues. Note the replacement button to the bottom of his tunic. No name or date.

 - Above: Two New Zealand Soldiers who are Hospital "out-patients", and therefore wearing their hospital blues. This was to be worn while a soldier was attending a hospital or while convalescing. The uniform consisted of a blue-serge tunic and trousers, with the tunic having white lapels. A white shirt was to be worn with a red tie (see below). A blue band was to be worn on their left upper arm.
 The soldier on the left is wearing a 12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiment Cap badge, while the chap on the right, standing, is wearing a NZ Rifle Brigade Collar as a Cap. Sadly not named to back, but taken by "The Fancy Dress Studio, 37 Oxford Street. W".

In 1918, if a Soldier was permitted to wear his khaki uniform, two blue stars (see above), were to be sewn to his tunic collar. This order came in in 1918 and then withdrawn in June 1919. 

 - Above and Opposite: A New Zealand Army marked tie, dated 1915, in Red to be worn with the hospital blues. Approximately 40mm wide at the ends, it narrows to 25mm around the middle, where it would fit on the back of the neck. 1020mm long. 

In August 1916, a special badge was approved to be worn by Officers and Men to indicate whether they had been wounded in the War. The badge consisted of a strip of Russian Braid No. 1, which was 2 inches (50mm) in length. It was to be worn on the left cuff of the sleeve of the tunic, vertically. The Soldier was able to add a additional stripe for every additional wound, but 1/2 and inch to either side of the first (up to 3 could be worn). The award was retrospective, and covered all wounds from the beginning of the war (4th Aug 1914). The Officer or Soldier "qualified" by being mentioned as wounded on the causality lists, and this included being gassed and shell-shock. No award was given for self-inflicted wounds.
A number of metal versions of the stripe were available for purchase at the time, and were more popular than the cloth, which got dirty and was less easily cleaned.

 - Above: A Red, plus double wound stripe of Gold coloued "Russian Braid No. 1" on a fine khaki backing material. All are of the 2 inch, WW1 length, with the ends send in behind the backing cloth. Some moth nips and fading (Lee Hawkes Collection).

 - Above: A double wound stripe of gold coloued "Russian Braid No. 1" on a a much finer khaki backing material, likely to match a Officers tunic. Both ends of each of the braid's are folded over to back, and the ends sewn in to prevent fraying (image from the internet).

- Above: A backing plate for a gilt brass wound stripe. It states "Service Wounded Stripe No. 4. SS Ltd - B, Prov Pat". It would have a lugged stripe to fit. Size 13mm by 60mm.
 - Opposite A similar, complete gilt brass Wound stripe with backing plate and pin. No maker mark to the stripe, which has two looped lugs. The backing plate is marked "Untarnishable Stripe Chemically Treated". Plate size is 10mm by 53mm. Stripe size is 4mm by 52mm.

 - Above: A two piece, small, plain backing plate type, gilt brass wound stripe.  This stripe has two tangs at its ends, which push through the uniform sleeve fold through the backing plate. Plate size is 11mm by 54mm

 - Above: The same stripe, but side on, which shows the issue with this design, and the folding and unfolding of the tangs eventually causes them to break. No maker mark. Stripe size is 5mm by 40mm.

 - Above Left & Right: A gilt brass wound stripe with two looped lugs to back. Maker marked to "LAMBOURNE'S BIRMINGHAM". Size 5mm by 51mm.

 - Above: A very nice image of three friends. The image indicates that the chap on the left is a Lance Corporal Ryan of the 17th (Ruahine) Regiment, while his colleagues are unnamed. Note that both Ryan and the chap on the Right have the Auckland Returned Servicemen's Association badge, with red ribbon over their right tunic pockets. While the center chap has a large New Zealand RSA badge to his lapel. Ryan is also sporting a double wound stripe (in bullion) to his left sleeve (Auckland Library collection 31-R2464).

 - Above: A great image of 14/60 Staff Sergeant John Rainsford Penn, who left with the Main Body in October 1914, and would see 4 years and 357 days service. He wears a year service chevron, with a Red coloured strip nearest the cuff, and then 4 blue after. The Red signifying 1914 service. He also has a metal wound strip to his left cuff. He has a 1914/15 Star ribbon to above his left pocket (Auckland Library collection 31-P4563).

  - Above: Two images of men with double wound stripes to their left sleeve cuff. Both are in cloth, with a Gold and Red coloured stripe being worn in parallel. A single Gold stripe indicated one wounding, while wearing two Gold stripes indicated twice being wounded, after that, a Red stripe was substituted and could mean 3 or more times. Both wear the "Red" stripe in different locations on the cuff.
On the left is Sergeant Major Richardson of the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment, here a returned soldier with his large silver NZ RSA badge to right breast, above his pocket. The image is dated 1917 (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-R3918).
On the right is 2/2531, 12/2531 and 1/626 Corporal (later Lieutenant) John Lees Faulkner, here pictured a member of the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment in 1917. He was to depart New Zealand 3 times during WW1 for Samoa, Gallipoli and later France. I believe this is a picture of him on his return from Gallipoli and before France (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-F3693).

In 1944, as per 2NZEF order 120, the Wound Stripe and Service chevron was reinstate from the First World War for wear by members of the 2nd NZEF.
 The wound stripe was defined as
 "narrow gold braid 1 1/2 inches in length. One stripe will be worn in respect of each occasion on which the soldier is wounded. 
 A single wound stripe, of red rayon braid will be worn in respect of wounds sustained in previous wars, irrespective of the number of occasions on which wounded."

 - Above: A single WW2 wound stripe in gold coloured "Russian Braid No. 1" on a khaki wool backing. The ends of the braid are poked through the backing and sewn to back, to prevent fraying. No maker mark and approx 50mm wide (Lee Hawkes Collection).

 - Above: A possible image of 22032 Kenneth William Gorrie, who was part of the 2nd Echelon of the 2nd NZEF, and served with the 21 (Auckland) Infantry Battalion. He wears a 5 year service chevron on his right sleeve cuff, while on his left is a wound stripe in gold braid. To above his left pocket is a Africa Star ribbon. The image is a copy of a photo, which is dated the 20th of May 1958, but clearly taken much earlier, around the end of WW2 (Swainson/Woods Collection, Puke Ariki and District Libraries WD.003026).

 - Above Left & Right: A study in size and also how they are made. Two wound stripes, single in gold braid. Worn and dirty as you find them now-a-days. The top is a WW1 version, 2 inch or 50mm long, while the bottom is a WW2 version, 1 1/2 inches or 38.1mm. Note the right image, showing how the braid ends are threaded through the backing material, to hide the ends and fraying (image from the internet).

 - Above Left & Right: A WW1 issued ration book to 36712 Lance Corporal John Alfred West. John was part of D Company, 21st Infantry Reinforcements, but served with the Auckland Infantry Regiment (also attached to 1st Entrenching Battalion). He was wounded in France (GSW to the hand) and was evacuated out to the UK, staying at No. 2 NZ General Hospital, Waltham-on-Thames, which is what the circular stamp is (up-side-down), with date of the 22nd of Nov 1918. After recovery, and before his embarkation back to NZ (he was sent home on the 8th of Dec 1918 via the SS Ruahine) he was given "leave" in the UK, from the 22nd of Nov to the 2nd of Dec 1918, as stated on the front of the book.

 - Opposite: John never used his ration book, so it is complete, with three sheets containing perforated squares for
 - 21 coupons for a single servings of Meat
 - 2 coupons for a weeks ration of tea
 - 2 coupons for a weeks ration of butter or margarine
 - 2 coupons for a weeks ration of sugar
 - 2 coupons for a weeks ration of lard
 - 2 coupons for Cheese (if rationed)
 - 2 coupons for Jam (if rationed).

The printed lines through the "meat" coupons show where to cut if the meal of meat was just a "half ration" and not a full portion.

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WW2 Formation Patches

The following are representations of unit patches of the New Zealand Army Medical Corps elements of the 2NZEF, worn during WW2 overseas.
The 2NZEF used 3 different systems of patches during WW2.
Below are two unit patches, which are used as part of type 1 patches, from 1935 to Sept 1940.
They would have been worn under a Maroon circular patch on the upper sleeve of the battledress.

 - Above: A type 1, NZAMC Unit patch for the HQ Div Medical Corps. Size 60mm by 60mm (approximately - image from the internet).

 - Above: A type 1, NZAMC Unit patch for the 4 Field Ambulance. Size 60mm by 60mm (approximately - image from the internet).

 - Above: A type 1, NZAMC Unit patch for the 5 Field Ambulance. Size 55mm by 55mm.

  - Above Left & Right: Two images of 31438 Major (later Lt-Colonel) Norman Charles Speight, taken on the 27 April 1940, in Wellington, by Spencer Digby Studios. Norman is wearing a set of darkened bronze "ONWARDS" Cap and collar badges. To his shoulder boards are rank crowns for Major, and on his upper sleeve he has a 1st type set of NZ Formation signs (both sides) for Non-Dvisional Convalescent Depot, which is a 3/4 Cherry red circle above a Cherry red square, which has a 1/4 rectangle of khaki material overlayed at its base (see above for colours). He was a Doctor by profession, and embarked three times from New Zealand during WW2. He also was held a POW for a period of time, but was released in 1943 as a Repatriated Medically Unfit Protected Personnel (Te Papa B.083963).

In 1947, the New Zealand Medical Corps was awarded the prefix "Royal" to their title. This then meant a change to their badges.

- Opposite and Above: A matching Silver and gilt brass set (all marked "S" to back of crown for "Silver" ) to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps with Kings Crown. The cap has long silvered lugs to back, while both Collars have D shaped silvered lugs. Otherwise not maker marked.

 - Above: A gilt brass, other ranks Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps with Kings Crown. This a relatively common badge, and it seems to have been issued in large numbers. This badge has two pressed type brass lugs to back. No maker mark.

 - Above: A similar gilt brass, other ranks Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps with Kings Crown. This badge has two thick copper wire lugs to back. No maker mark.

- Opposite: A pair of gilt brass, other ranks Collar badges to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps, with Kings Crown.
These Collars are super rare, and were not it seems, issued in great numbers. They are different from the Cap badge, not only in size (smaller), but also as they only have one void area to the center above the lower banner, whereas the Cap badge has three.
This comes in handy when spotting them for sale, as often they are miss-described as Cap badges.
Two thick copper wire lugs to the back of each, with no maker mark.

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 - Opposite and Above: A matching set of Cap and Collars badges in gilt fired brass and silver (not marked) to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps with Queens Crown. The Cap has long silvered lugs to back and is impressed to "J R Gaunt London", while both Collars have D shaped silvered lugs, but are not maker marked.

 - Above: A pair of British Royal Army Medical Corps Queen Crown Collar badges. Two tone metal, they both have a pair of D shaped looped lugs to back. Maker marked to "J R GAUNT LONDON" to back base (image from the internet).
 - Opposite: An image of a Lieutenant Poole, here a Officer in the Royal New Zealand Medical Corps, dated 1969, in Wellington by Spencer Digby Studios. He wears a bi-metal, Queens crown RNZAMC Cap badge to his peaked cap, but to his tunic collar, I believe he is wearing British Royal Army Medical Corps Collars (like above). He is wearing anodised RNZAMC buttons and has a circular formation patch to his upper tunic sleeve (Man inscribed; 'Mr Poole', 1969, Wellington, by Spencer Digby Studios. Spencer Digby / Ronald D Woolf Collection. Gift of Ronald Woolf, 1975. © The copyright holder. Te Papa (B.081830))

This is the 2nd member of the RNZAMC I have seen with British Collar badges. The other image is dated 2 Jul 1963 and is of a Mr F D Thompson, who appears a other ranks member of the RNZAMC and is again taken in Wellington, by Spencer Digby Studios (Te Papa MA I723604)

 - Opposite: A anodised aluminium staybrite set to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps. These have lugs to back, and the Cap is maker marked to "J R Gaunt, B'ham".

 


 

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 - Opposite: A anodised aluminium staybrite set to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps. These are single piece, two tone, with pins and clutches to back.
The Cap is maker marked to "J R Gaunt, B'ham".

Note the collars are opposing, with the serpents head facing inwards.

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 - Above: A multi-piece gilt and frosted silver Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Medical Corps. A modern strike of the badge, with slightly enlarged Queens crown. Two long looped lugs to back. No maker mark.

- Above: Again, a modern strike , single piece, darkened metal Cap and Collar badge set to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps. The Cap has screw posts and nuts to back, while both Collars have pins to be used with clutches. Note the opposing heads of the serpents to center. No maker mark.

 - Above: A New Zealand Medical Officers rank collar tab or NZMC Staff Officers collar tab. The New Zealand Forces button measures 13mm in diameter. Backed with red material. No maker mark and size is 79mm long by 33mm wide.

 - Above: A 1908 pattern, 26.3mm, gilt brass button to the "New Zealand Medical Corps. Maker marked to "J R GAUNT & SON LONDON" (also found in a 25.7mm FIRMIN & SON LD LONDON" - B Jones collection).

 - Above: A unusual, 1908 pattern, 25.7mm anodised button (with Kings crown) to the "New Zealand Medical Corps" Maker marked to Back to "J R GAUNT & SON LONDON ENGLAND (B Jones Collection).

 - Above Left: A darkened brass, 1908 pattern 19mm button to the "New Zealand Medical Corps" to edge  and the maker details for "J R GAUNT & SON, LONDON" to back.
Also comes in (B Jones collection):
- 17mm "E STILLWELL BIRMINGHAM"
 - 18.8mm  FIRMIN & SON Ltd LONDON
 - 19mm J R GAUNT & SON LONDON ENGD
 - 19mm J R GAUNT & SON Ltd LONDON ENGD
 - Above Right: A gilt brass 19mm button to the "Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps", with Kings Crown and makers details for "GAUNT, LONDON" to back. Post 1947.

 - Above: A 26mm button in anodised aluminium, silver tone, with fixed shank and brass backing, to the "Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps". Marker mark to back to "GAUNT LONDON".

 - Above Left: A anodised aluminium, in silver tone, with fixed shank and brass backing, 25mm button to the "Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps". Marker mark to back to "FIRMIN LONDON".
 - Above Right: A anodised aluminium, in silver tone, with fixed shank and brass backing, 19mm button to the "Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps". Marker mark to back to "LONDON BADGE & BUTTON".

- Above Left: A anodised aluminium, in silver tone, with fixed shank and brass backing, 17mm button to the "Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps". Marker mark to back to "GAUNT LONDON".
- Above Center: A anodised aluminium, in gilt tone, with fixed shank and brass backing, 16.5mm button to the "Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps". Marker mark to back to "GAUNT LONDON".
- Above Left: A anodised aluminium, in silver tone, with fixed shank and brass backing, 14mm button to the "Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps". Marker mark to back to "GAUNT LONDON".

 - Above Left & Right: A cloth Stretcher Bearer (SB) worn by personnel tasked with retrieving wounded on the battlefield. At the beginning of WW1 this role was usually given to Regimental Band members, but over time it became a specialised role, with members needing basic medical training and the fitness required to rescue soldiers from truly inhospitable conditions. This according to references is probably a WW2 era band, as it has a tapered end which fits into a smaller buckle. Also the letter are printed on in red paint. No other maker marks.  

 - Above Left & Right: A Red Cross armband worn by British and other Commonwealth nations, including New Zealand. This is a British Armband, as it came with a set of WW2 medals to a chap who was in the R.A.M.C and also a Church Cadet. He saw service in North Africa, France and Germany (I have his medals) as part of the Royal Army Medical Corps. White cotton material, with a dark red Cross, sewn separately on to front. 6 poppers to back, to allow for adjustment. It is stamped "Army Medical Service" in ink to front. Some references also say that this pattern of band was worn in WW1.

 - Above Left & Right: A Red Cross armband worn by British and other Commonwealth nations, including New Zealand. This is a two piece band, with a separate red cross sewn to front. Three buttons to back to attach and unattach the band. There are no marking to inside or out.

 - Above & Opposite: A WW2 date-able Red Cross armband. Typical of the WW2 era, with separate Red Cross emblem sewn onto a white cotton band with three buttons to attach/close the band. On the inside is a black ink stamp to the "Northern Military District, A.D.M.S. C H Tewsley Col."

809516 (3/298 in WW1) Colonel Cyril Hockney Tewsley was the Assistant Director of Medical Services (A.D.M.S.) for the New Zealand Medical Corps in the Northern Military District in 1942. The Northern Military District would have covered the top of the North Island, with the Central Military District covering the other half and included Wellington. The Southern Military District covering the South Island.

(Papers Past - Auckland Star, Issue 34, 10th Feb 1942)

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 - Opposite & Above: Images showing the Dolphin brothers, 3/3055 Frederick Horace Dolphin (standing on the left in the opposite image) and 3/2054 George Alexander Dolphin (seated opposite and standing with 3 Australian friends above). Both served with the 2nd Field Ambulance in France and the Western Front. Note the Geneva Cross patches to arms and George wearing a armband above (Nigel Robson collection).

Medical Corps Trade Patch

The following are a selection of Medical Corps Cloth Trade patches. They range from pre WW1 to now. Most are British or Commonwealth patches worn by Medical Corps personnel, including New Zealand, but there are a few from different countries too.

 - Above: A early New Zealand Volunteer Medical patch, with red thread cross, on a white background with gold bullion thread to outer boarder on a dark material background. Roughly 42mm in diameter.

 - Above: A medical patch with red thread cross, on a white background, with yellow thread to outer boarder on a dark background. Roughly 52mm in diameter.

 - Above: A medical patch with red felt cross, on a white background, with yellow felt to outer boarder on a dark background. Roughly 49mm in diameter.

 - Above: Another medical patch with red felt cross, on a white background, with yellow felt to outer boarder on a dark background. This patch was owned by 3/1082 Pte. William Roy Robson. William attested on the 10th of Aug 1915 and served overseas in no. 2 Field Ambulance, initially in the middle East and then France and the Western Front. Total service overseas was 3 years and 283 days.

- Above & Opposite: two images of William in uniform, wearing NZ Medical Corps Collar badges and NZMC curved metal shoulder titles (above). Opposite also just shows his medical patches to both sleeves (Nigel Robson Collection).

 - Above: A medical patch with red felt cross, on a white background, with yellow thread to outer boarder on a dark background. Possibly the border has been repaired, as its puckered the patch. Roughly 52mm in diameter.

 - Above: A medical patch with red thread cross, on a white background, with yellow thread to outer boarder on a khaki wool background. Roughly 51mm in diameter.

 - Above: A medical patch with red thread cross, on a white background, with yellow thread to outer boarder on a khaki wool background. Roughly 56mm in diameter.

 - Above: A medical patch with red thread cross, on a white background, with yellow thread to outer boarder on a pale background. Roughly 51mm in diameter.

 - Above: A medical patch with red thread cross, on a white background, with yellow thread to outer boarder on a large dark blue background. Royal Navy or Royal NZ Navy. Roughly 47mm in diameter.

 - Above Center: A medical patch with red thread cross, on a white background, with yellow thread to outer boarder on a khaki wool background. Roughly 47mm in diameter. This patch is faded, but thankfully sewn roughly on a piece of cloth, which has also record the soldiers details who wore it, a Pte. H Martin, 2002621.

 - Opposite: A sleeve patch to the Australian Army Medical Women's Service (A.A.M.W.S) , with red thread cross, on a white border, with a khaki wool background. Roughly 44mm x 44mm in size.

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 - Above & Opposite: A puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the Royal New Zealand Medical Corps. Khaki/Cherry Red/Khaki. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "7 1/4".

 - Opposite: A older style, post 1961 cloth shoulder title to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps. Gold embroidered letters on a Ruby felt background.

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National Stock Number 8455-98-106-5349 was assigned to "Shoulder Sleeve Insignia, RNZAMC, All Ranks" on the 28th of Aug 1980.
(Manufacturer noted as Arbi Monogram Ltd).
National Stock Number 8455-98-107-9929 was assigned to "Service Cap Insignia, RNZAMC, Gilt Silver" on the 30th of Oct 1984.
National Stock Number 8455-98-204-4641 was assigned to "Branch of Service Collar Insignia, RNZAMC, Collar/PR" on the 6th of Nov 1995.
National Stock Number 8455-98-102-0283 was assigned to "Insignia Button, 40 Line (Ligne - 25mm), All Ranks RNZAMC." on the 1st of Jun 1990.
National Stock Number 8455-98-102-0284 was assigned to "Insignia Button, 30 Line (Ligne - 19mm), All Ranks RNZAMC." on the 1st of Jun 1990.
National Stock Number 8455-98-102-0285 was assigned to "Insignia Button, 27 Line (Ligne - 17mm), All Ranks RNZAMC." on the 1st of Jun 1990.
National Stock Number 8455-98-102-0286 was assigned to "Insignia Button, 22 Line (Ligne - 14mm), All Ranks RNZAMC." on the 1st of Jun 1990.

Fakes and Forgeries

The following is not the definitive list, and I'm sure there will be others. But the following I have come across.
A fake New Zealand Medical Corps Cap badge
 - OK detail to front, but colour is wrong, and a orangey-yellow.
 - To back is stippled and pitted, with a flat filed area, where the excess brass has been removed and filed down flat from the mold.
 - Two short copper brass lugs are brazed on, but are not a type encountered on the originals.
 - Size 43mm by 30mm.

Below is a relatively common badge, yet someone has taken the time to fake this Royal NZ Army Medical Corps Cap badge.
 - Detail is good to front, and matches what is found on originals.
 - To back is stippled and pitted, with a flat filed area, where the excess brass has been removed and filed down flat from the mold.
 - Two short copper brass lugs are brazed on, but are not a type encountered on the originals.
 - Size 47mm by 45mm.

New Zealand Forces Motor Corps

The New Zealand Army Reserve of Officers was formed in April 1913.
 - Opposite: A newspaper article from the New Zealand Herald, dated 17th of Jan 1913, page 5. It states "Officers will be required to perform seven days' duty annually (consecutively or otherwise, or as 14 half-days) if called upon. Their duties will be entirely in connection with the headquarters and the district staff of the defence forces".

It was re-designated the New Zealand Forces Motor Services Corps in May 1915.

During WW1 it seems to have taken on a NZ Defense roll, and had two sections

 - A Motor Boat Section - a number of references were made in News Papers of the time, including 23rd of July 1915 which stated in the Auckland Star, that the Auckland Motor-boat Section of the New Zealand Forces Motor Service Corps had twenty motor-boats in the motor-boat section of the Motor Service Corps at the time.
References are also made on the Torpedo Bay Naval Museum website, which features a picture of Charles Henry Tarr Palmer, who was a member of the Auckland Motor Boat Section of the NZ Forces Motor Service Corps. Early on in WW1 he organised patrols of the Hauraki Gulf by the force. He is pictured on the site wearing the below insignia. He went on to serve with the British Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve and saw action in the North Sea.

 - A Motor-Car Section - again Newspapers of the time indicate that:
"Gentlemen accenting commissions in the New Zealand Forces Motor Reserve must possesses a thoroughly efficient motor-car and a good practical knowledge of it. They will be required to perform seven days' duty annually (consecutively or otherwise as required, or as fourteen half-days) if called upon. Their duties will be entirely in connection with the headquarters and district staffs of the defence forces. Officers will be asked to perform duty as far as possible in the neighborhood in which they reside.

Allowances will be granted to officers as follows in connection with their employment on duty in peace time :
  - Class "A," cars of net less than 20 horse-power and 26 cwt in weight, having seating capacity for four persons (including driver), 40s per diem;
- Class "B 3 " cars of under 20 horsepower or under 26 cwt in weight, having seating capacity for four persons (including driver), 37s 6d per diem;
 - Class "C," cars of not less than 10 horse-power, having seating capacity for one or two persons in addition to driver, 30s per diem.
An officer may also be called out for a half-day's tour of duty, when half the above rates only will be paid. A half-hour's tour of duty will not exceed five horn's.

This allowance must cover all expenses, including wear-and-tear, cost of petrol and lubricating oil, cost of repairs, ferry tolls, etc. Days on which out and home journeys only are performed do not count for the daily allowance unless the total mileage for these journeys exceeds twenty-five miles, when an extra day's pay will be paid. Officers of the New Zealand Forces Motor Reserve will be subject to the regulations relating to discipline which are in force for the Territorial Force.

There will be no examination for promotion in connection with the Motor Reserve, and first appointments will be recommended by the General Officer Commanding, New Zealand Military Forces, in ranks suitable to the ages of applicants. Promotions will be subsequently made in the Motor Reserve as vacancies in the establishment of the various ranks occur (Hawera & Normanby Star, 7 August 1914, Page 7)".

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 - Opposite: A image of Sydney Millichamp Moore-Jones, who was a member of New Zealand Force Motor Service Corps and therefore also a gazetted Officer in the Territorial Force. He held the rank of Lieutenant, and had a Belsize Touring Car, of 20 hp. Sadly Sydney had a disability (laim in one leg) and was not classed fit for the 1st NZEF. He also served in WW2 and had a service number of 27/11/1877 (image take from the Auckland Cenotaph website).

 - Above: A newspaper advert taken from the "Progress" on the 1 December 1911, Page 890 which shows a example of Sydney's car, and a rough price in 1911.

- Opposite & Above: A Cap and Collar badge set in die-stamped brass to the New Zealand Forces Motor Service Corps. New Zealand made, they have two copper wire looped lugs to back. No maker mark and size of Cap 38mm by 33mm, while Collars 25mm by 20mm.

 - Above: A gilt brass and enamel Cap badge to the Auckland Yachtsman's Volunteer Naval Defense Force (A.Y.V.N.D.F). Set up during WW1, the unit taught skills aligned with the Royal Navy and Royal Naval Reserve. They acted as recruiters for the Service. Two lugs to back (I am minus one), with the maker mark of "Young & Co", which were based in Auckland. Size 33mm by 24mm.

 - Above: Another example of a New Zealand Forces Motor Service Corps Cap and Collar badge. Note the non-voiding to crown on the Cap, and the collar is in darkened bronze (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Opposite & Above: two images of a Francis George Fowler of the New Zealand Forces Motor Services Corps taken in 1917, and above with I presume his brothers (left) Cpl William Kemp Fowler and (right) Charles Frederick Fowler.  Francis is wearing the Cap and Collars of the NZ Forces Motor Service Corps, and to his tunic are the 4 star "NZ Forces" buttons. He has a single "pip" for 2nd Lieutenant to his shoulder boards (Auckland Libraries collection 31-F3683 & 31-F2607).

At some stage during WW1 Gaunt made the below version of the badge. Much like the NZAPC, NZDC and NZAOC, it seems a separate designed badge was made for the NZEF in the UK, to be worn by overseas personnel, and which is different in design to the above New Zealand made version.
No photo evidence (yet) has been found of it being worn.
Up until the early 2000, this badge was considered quiet rare, but the market became flooded with examples, likely from old stocks from J R Gaunt's factory premises, which were on-sold on a global auction platform. It caused the badges value to plummet and examples now turn up on a regular basis.

 - Above: A two piece, die stamped bronze Cap badge to the New Zealand Military Forces Motor Reserve. Semi-solid to back, and maker mark impressed to back to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Two D shaped copper lugs to back and size 31mm in diameter.

 - Above: A similar two piece, die stamped Cap badge to the New Zealand Military Forces Motor Reserve. This time chromed, with maker mark impressed to back to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Two round lugs to back and size 31mm in diameter.

  - Above: An image of 24304 Lieutenant John Candish Allen, here of the New Zealand Forces Motor Services Corps. He is wearing the above Gaunt made New Zealand Military Forces Motor Reserve Cap badge, but the NZ made New Zealand Forces Motor Services Corps Collar badges. John would eventually rise to the rank of Major in the Motor Reserve in NZ, but also joined the 17th Reinforcements in 1917, and was an officer (Lieutenant) with "A" Company. When he arrived in France, he became Quartermaster to the 2nd Battalion of the Auckland Infantry Regiment. He would be promoted to Captain, but sadly DOW on the 19th of Oct 1917. He is buried at Dozinghem Military Cemetery, Poperinge, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium (Auckland Cenotaph).

Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps

The Corps first formed in 1908 as the New Zealand Medical Corps Nursing Reserve. Its title was changed in 1915 to the New Zealand Army Nursing Service (NZANS).

Motto: (none in the 1st NZEF - as noted in R17187868 AALI W3508 7291 Archives NZ)

 - Above: On 27th of Feb 1915, a judging committee was set up, consisting of three members to judge the designs for the new Army Nurses badge (First World War - Badge file, R21079057 AAYS 8682 18 Archives NZ).

 - Above: On the 2nd of March 1915, the committee had narrowed the proposed design down from 143 to 5! An impressive task (First World War - Badge file, R21079057 AAYS 8682 18 Archives NZ).

Presumably this badge was the design chosen, as sadly there is no records of what the other designs were.

 - Above: A early WW1 Silver and enamel badge to the New Zealand Army Nursing Service (N.Z.A.N.S.). Solid and brooched to back, with a marker mark at back base to "STG. SILVER" and "C.M.BAY". A short length of the original safety chain is still attached at base. Note the opaque red enamel to center.

 - Above: A similar, but later badge to the New Zealand Army Nursing Service, Again, solid and a brooch fitting to back, with maker marked to "STG. SILVER" and "C.M.BAY". A flatter, clearer, red enamel to center.

 - Above: A Silver and enamel badge to the New Zealand Army Nursing Service (N.Z.A.N.S.). Solid to back, with brooch fitting. This badge has a maker mark of "J R G & S" for J. R. Gaunt and Son of London, with the hallmarks of "anchor", "lion" and "S" for Birmingham and 1917 (image from the internet).

C M Bay was one of the earliest WW1 manufacturers of these early badges, with some also having the "Registration Number" of the nurse engraved to the back of the crown (occationally the Service Number of the Nurse is also Engraved, starting with a "22/" which was the Services unit designation).

The registration number differs from the nurses service number, for example 22/327 is the service number of Nurse Elizabeth Fanny Stanton, who qualified in 1911, but attested on the 18th of Jan 1916 to the NZ Army Nurses Service.

She was assigned the Registration Number of 1062, as  Elizabeth was the 1062th person to join the Service.

Her badge may have had "1062" engraved to back, but this is a exception, as normally they are blank, with only a handful of examples seeming to have the owners registration. 

 - Opposite: Two Silver N.Z.A.N.S badges, with the left being marked to "M & K" or Mayer and Kean and "SILVER". The right is made by "YOUNG & CO, AUCKLAND" and is again marked "SILVER". Note the difference in crown and enamel to center (Ian Hamilton Collection).
 - Above: A variation, and possible private purchase of the Silver and Enamel N.Z.A.N.S badge. Note the enamel to crown, which is not found on the New Zealand made versions. The Fern Fronds also appear to be hand cut, and note the stems under the banner, and the large void. Sadly no view of the back, but brooch fitting has been lost (image from the internet).

 - Above: A superb cover-letter from Ceil M Bay himself, dated 20th July 1917, querying payment for badges already produced. He indicates the first 72 N.Z.A.N.S badges were made by his firm and delivered by himself to a Hospital Ship. At the end of the letter, he indicates the price of each badge at follows:
N.Z.A.N.S badge by itself - 5 shillings
Number engraved to back - 3 pence extra
Silver chain & pin - 1 shilling extra
Total for each badge 6 shillings and 3 pence each
(First World War - Badge file, R21079057 AAYS 8682 18 Archives NZ).

 - Above: But not all was what it seemed, with a complaint from Egypt making its way back to New Zealand. The Red enamel to the center of the badge apparently melted with the heat in Egypt!
When tested, it turned out to be Wax and not Red Enamel.

(First World War - Badge file, R21079057 AAYS 8682 18 Archives NZ).

  - Above Left & Right: Two superb images entitled "Nash", showing 2 members of the New Zealand Army Nurses Service on their return to New Zealand with also a Sergeant Major and Corporal of the New Zealand Medical Corps. Note the service chevrons to their right sleeves, with the above left Nurse showing 4 on her sleeve, while the Sergeant Major has 3. Both Nurses have their NZANS badge pinned to their cape (Nelson Museum collection 97393 & 97394).

New Zealand Registered Masseuse

 - Opposite: a enamel and Silver (not marked) pin badge to the N.Z.R.M (New Zealand Registered Masseuse.
Many of the nurses who served in WW1 were also trained Masseuses (today we would call them massage therapist), as training in New Zealand had started in 1912.
 In 1920, the New Zealand Government passed the Masseurs Registration Act, which created a national register of trained Masseuses.
Those who had passed the exam (and were given a certificate) were now allowed to re-register, and were given a roll number.
The opposite badge is engraved to back to "298/LOTTIE HORAN DONALD/1922" (diagonally, bottom left to upper right), with 298 being Lottie's Registration number, and 1922 being the year she registered.
Lottie was also a nurse during WW1, and served with the NZANS (service number 22/345) overseas for 2 years and 15 days in mainly the UK (Hornchurch & Walton-on-Thames). Her badge is not maker or silver marked and has a brooch fitting to back in a East/West configuration.

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 - Above: A later kings crown badge to the New Zealand Army Nursing Service. Solid to back and a brooch fitting, but with different "sprung"pin and hook. Marked to "M & K Ld" and "Silver". Note the ribbing to background of red center enamel. Safety chain is attached to the brooch pin.

 - Above: A unknown purpose of solid gilt brass badge to the New Zealand Army Nursing Service. Looks to have the same construction as the M & K Ld or Mayer and Kean Limited made example to the left, but a darker colour of red and dark blue enamel, and note some red to crown. Maybe a association badge. Same size, with brooch fitting to back, but no maker mark.

 - Above: A unknown badge clearly to a New Zealand medical association, with a "NZ" to base and the fern leaves wreath. But purpose unknown. It is semi-solid to back with a brooch fitting. Apparently these originated in the UK, and are maybe a sample badge made by one of the manufacturers there. New Zealand Red Cross?

Other early makers:
 - A collector has showed me a NZANS badge marked "Kramer - Cairo" and "Stirling". It has a pin to back similar to the WW1 SWB (Silver War/Wound Badge). There was a L Kramer, who was a silversmith/jeweler at the beginning of the 1900's in Cairo, Egypt, making Government awards and selling to the general public.

 - Above: A group photo of NZ Army Nursing Service staff at Trentham Military Camp in New Zealand around 1917. Note they wear their NZANS badges to the front of their Cape, though it seems which side of the cap could vary. Note that you can also just make out the safety pin and chain deployed below the badge to the front of their uniform.

 - Above: A selection Bone or "Ivory" crafted Onwards badges. The Badge references we have associate these with being worn as an unofficial badge by the New Zealand Army Nursing Service. I have yet to find a picture of them actually being worn by a Nurse and have a feeling that they are more a civilian souvenir badge. Time will tell, and if anyone has a picture, please let me know (Ian Hamilton Collection).

 - Above: A hand-carved Bone or Ivory Onwards badge. Single piece, with "ONWARDS" to base banner.

Above: The same badge opposite, but showing the back wire brooch fitting, with the pin and hook embedded in the back of the badge. No maker mark.

 - Above: A Miss or Mrs "Grooby" wearing what appears to be a Bone Onwards badge to her blouse. Sadly not dated but note the shape of the crown, which is thick and also a similar colour to the Ivory Elephant necklace which she wears around her neck (Nelson Museum collection 196908).

  - Above: A sadly undated double image entitled "Capt I.M. McKenzie". I have not yet found her online. Note what appears to be a kings crown NZANS badge to her blouse. She has two Officer rank pips to her shoulder boards, so Lieutenant at time of this image (Nelson Museum collection 190729).
 - Opposite: A possible image of 50733 Patricia Mabel Pownall of the NZANS. Note again the kings crown NZANS badge to front of blouse, with safety pin attached. There appears to be two Officer pips to shoulder boards, so rank of Lieutenant. Patricia qualified as a Nurse in 1940 (Nelson Museum collection 190213).

In 1953 the service was reorganised into a Corps and was re-titled the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps (R.N.Z.N.C.).

 - Above: A brooch badge to the Royal NZ Nursing Corps (R.N.Z.N.C.) in silver and enamel, with Queens Crown. Maker marked to back to "M & K Ld" and "Silver".

 - Above: Another brooch badge to the Royal NZ Nursing Corps (R.N.Z.N.C.) in silver and enamel, with Queens Crown. Maker marked to back to  ""Stg Silv"".

 - Above: A modern, silver washed metal and enamel brooched badge with safety chain and pin attached to the R.N.Z.N.C. No maker mark.

New Zealand Army Nursing Corps Badges

 - Opposite & Above: A gilt brass and Silver (not marked) Cap and Collar badge set to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. The Cap badge has two short thread bolts to back, while the collars have short looped lugs. All are solid to back, with no maker mark. All have separate bottom banners.

 - Above Right: An image entitled "Charge Sister Pam Miley, a Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps Sister makes friends with a new born Vietnamese baby during a visit to a orphanage in Vung Tau, Headquarters of the 1st Australian Logistic Support Group, 1971" Note that Pam wears one of the below badges to her beret, and has a cloth "NEW ZEALAND" slip-on shoulder title (© IWM MH 16976).

Above: A gilt brass and white metal Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. Die stamped, it has two thick copper looped lugs to back. Separate white metal banner, which has been riveted on to back. No maker mark.

Above: A white metal Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. Die stamped, it has two thick copper looped lugs to back. Separate white metal banner, which has been riveted on to back. No maker mark.

Above: A single piece, two tone, anodised aluminium Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. Two aluminium looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.

- Opposite: A modern, gilt & chromed metal Cap to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. Flat back, it has two thread bolts to back and nuts. No maker mark.
 - Above: A pair of darkened Collar badges to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. Both are two piece, with separate banner. Two copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark.

 - Above: A Officers bullion thread and cloth Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps.
No maker label to back.

 - Above: A rank disk worn on the right breast, on medical whites. Worn by NCO's in the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. The above is a Corporal's rank, with a safety pin glued (repaired) to back. Other ranks appear to be Staff Sergeant,  Sergeant and Lance Corporal.

 - Above: A 26mm anodised aluminium staybrite button to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. Fixed shank to back and maker marked to "GAUNT, LONDON".

 - Opposite: A pair of post 1961 cloth shoulder titles to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. Grebe embroidered letters on a Post Office Red background.

National Stock Number 8455-98-104-0191 was assigned to "Service Hat and Service Cap Insignia, Badge RNZNC" on the 11th of Dec 1978.
National Stock Number 8455-98-104-4106 was assigned to "Insignia, Shoulder Strap, Epaulette, RNZNC" on the 8th of Oct 1979.
National Stock Number 8455-98-104-4176 was assigned to "Branch of Service Insignia, RNZNC, Collar" on the 8th of Oct 1979.
National Stock Number 8455-98-104-4177 was assigned to "Branch of Service Insignia, RNZNC, Collar, Gilt and Silver" on the 15th of Jan 1979.
National Stock Number 8455-98-104-6587 was assigned to "Service Hat and Service Cap Insignia, RNZNC, All Ranks" on the 17th of Jan 1979.
National Stock Number 8455-98-104-6593 was assigned to "Lapel Badge, RNZNC" on the 17th of Jan 1979.
National Stock Number 8455-98-106-5359 was assigned to "Shoulder Sleeve Insignia, RNZNC." on the 29th of Aug 1980.
National Stock Number 8455-98-102-0323 was assigned to "Insignia Button, 40 Line (Ligne), All Ranks, RNZNC." on the 1st of Jun 1990.
National Stock Number 8455-98-102-0324 & 0327 was assigned to "Insignia Button, 30 Line (Ligne), All Ranks, RNZNC." on the 1st of Jun 1990.

Fakes and Forgeries

Below is an annoying fake, as from first glance it looks good from front, with correct silver toned lower banner.
 - Detail is good to front, and matches what is found on originals.
 - To back is where it all comes apart. Detail is lost to back, and there is no depth. There is also stippling and pitting, and the edge is thick and flat.
 - Note the banner is just held on by wire hooks. Originals are riveted to the brass backing.
 - Two short, ribbon like copper brass lugs are soldered on, but are not a type encountered on the originals.
 - Size 45mm by 36mm.