New Zealand Corps 2
Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps
The need for a separate New Zealand Ordnance organisation was identified as far back as 1907, but tentative steps were only taken in 1913 by training individuals at Territorial Camps with the required skills.
With the outbreak of WW1, these individuals were deployed within the 1st NZEF at Ordnance Depots, and later they became the founding members of the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps, which was established from March 1915.
At home, in New Zealand, a New Zealand Army Ordnance Department (consisting of Commissioned Officers) and the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps (consisting of Warrant Officers, NCO's and Men) existed from early 1917.
They wore different Cap and Collar badges from their overseas serving comrades.
Motto: Sua Tela Tonanti (To the warrior his arms).
With the outbreak of WW1, these individuals were deployed within the 1st NZEF at Ordnance Depots, and later they became the founding members of the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps, which was established from March 1915.
At home, in New Zealand, a New Zealand Army Ordnance Department (consisting of Commissioned Officers) and the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps (consisting of Warrant Officers, NCO's and Men) existed from early 1917.
They wore different Cap and Collar badges from their overseas serving comrades.
Motto: Sua Tela Tonanti (To the warrior his arms).
New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps Overseas Worn Badge - 1stN.Z.E.F.
- Above: A early New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps Cap and Collar badge set, worn oversea by members of the 1st NZEF from 1917. All three have a "NZ" brazed to top. No maker mark, but looks to be "Gaunt" manufacture This badge was based on the British version and was worn until members returned home from WW1. It was then briefly "reissued" in 1937 until the new pattern of badge arrived from the UK.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. All have the small plaque to back to "J R Gaunt, London" and copper looped lugs.
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- Above Left: A locally made Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps.
- Above Right: A Mayer and Keane, of Wellington (M & K,W) maker marked Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. |
- Above Left: A sand cast Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Cast integrated lugs to back.
- Above Right: A gilt brass, single piece Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Only differing feature is the short copper looped lugs to back. This version always appears very worn. |
New Zealand Army Ordnance Department - Officers - New Zealand Only.
- Above: A scarce, 1917 pattern, New Zealand worn only, Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Department. Its maker mark to back to "C M Bay" and has two wire looped lugs to back.
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- Above: A similar Cap badge in copper to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Department. No maker, with two hex type copper lugs to back. This badge is thinly struck.
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- Above: A Officers Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Department (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above Left: A gilt brass, fixed shank, 25mm button to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Department. It has a maker mark of "Hobson & Sons, London".
- Above Center: A gilt brass, fixed shank, 18mm button to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Department. It has a maker mark of "Extra Superb". - Above Right: A gilt brass, fixed shank 12mm hat button to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Department. No maker mark to back. |
The New Zealand Army Ordnance Department was absorbed into the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps in 1924.
New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps - Other Ranks - New Zealand Only.
- Above: A 1917 pattern, other ranks Cap and Collar badge set, manufactured, and worn in New Zealand for home service only during WW1. Two brass hex type lugs to back of each, with no maker mark.
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- Above: A similar set again of badge to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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This other ranks, 1917 patterned badge, continued to be worn well after WW1 and until 1937 within New Zealand. In that year, it was reported that apparently all stocks of the Cap badge had been used, and permission was sort for the men to wear the overseas 1st NZEF version of the badge (top of page) until a new 1937 pattern of the badge became available.
- Above: A pair of WW1 era shoulder titles to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London". Both have a brass hex type lug to back.
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- Above: A pair of WW1 era shoulder titles to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Locally made, with thin hex type brass lugs to back. Not maker marked.
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- Above Left: A 24mm, gilt brass button to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Maker marked to back to "Firmin, London".
- Above Center: A 17mm, gilt brass button to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Maker marked to back to "Firmin, London". - Above Right: A 12mm, gilt brass button to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Maker marked to back to "Firmin, London". |
- Above: A rare 1937 patt gilt brass and enamel Officers collar badge to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps in 1937. Note the fretting to circular banner. Two copper looped lugs to back, with the maker mark stamped to back of banner to "Firmin London" Right collar, when worn (note the direction of cannon to center).
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- Above: A Cap and Collar badge set in gilt brass in the pattern adopted by the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps in 1937. During WW2, all overseas serving personnel wore the generic New Zealand Onwards badge, with the NZ Army Ordnance Corps being no exception. The design is based on the British style badge at the time, but with "New Zealand" and "Army Ordnance Corps" in the circular central wreath.
This badge was short-lived and is rare, as in 1947, the Corps was awarded the prefix "Royal" to their Corps' title, and bought another change in their badge. All have looped lugs to back and are not maker marked. |
- Above: A variation to this rare badge, with a slider to the back of this Cap badge.
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- Above: A post 1947 gilt fired brass, enamel and Silver (marked S to back) Cap and Collar set to the Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Note the addition of the Latin motto to center wreath, and the move of "N" and "Z" to above the bottom banner. All are impressed to "J R Gaunt, London" to back. Note the collars have opposing Cannons to center.
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- Above: A other ranks, gilt brass Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps Cap badge. This has a slider to back, but no maker mark.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap and Collar badge other ranks set to the Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Note the collars are opposing, with cannon to center, opposing each other. No maker mark. The lugs to the Cap badge are in a North/South config.
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- Above: A 17mm, gilt bass shoulder strap button, with sew in footing, and screw bolt to back to the Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps with Kings crown. Maker marked to back of button to "Gaunt, London".
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- Above: A Artificer Trade sleeve patch in cloth and embroidered thread. A pale backing cloth to back. No maker mark (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: A Artificer Trade sleeve patch in cloth and embroidered thread, circa WW2.
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- Above: Three more modern versions of the Artificer Trade sleeve badge in embroidered cloth or wool. No maker marks to back.
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- Above Left: A Artificer Trade sleeve badge in brass. Two looped lugs to backs in brass on the Hammer. No maker mark.
- Above Middle: A Staff Sergeant who was also a Armourer and therefore wore his Artificers badge above his rank chevrons, but below his Staff Sergeants rank Crown. Someone has attached the crown to the badge, via wires to back. Two looped lugs to the the back of the Artificer. - Above Right: A Artificer Trade sleeve badge in copper. Four looped lugs to backs in copper on the four ends. No maker mark. |
This badge was worn by both NZ Artillery and Army Ordnance Corps early on. By 1929 all Artificers were part of the NZ Army Ordnance Corps.
With the passing of the King in 1952, and Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, the badge changed again, with the new Queens crown.
- Above: A gilt fired brass and silver plate (not marked) Cap and Collar set to the Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Note the collars are opposing, with cannons facing to center. |
- Above: A two piece, brass backed, enamel and anodised aluminium Cap and Collar badge set to the Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. All have long pins to back and the letter "T" stamped. Note the collars are opposing, with cannons facing to center.
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- Above: A Variation on the Cap and Collars of the R.N.Z.A.O.C. To center is a single piece two tone Cap badge, in anodised aluminium. It has two long pins to back. These badges are actually hard to get in good condition, as you mainly find the pins have bust off the back. Either side are single piece, two tone, anodised aluminium Collars to the R.N.Z.A.O.C. Pins also to back. Note Cannon to center are opposing.
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- Above Left: A silver tone, fixed shank, 26mm anodised aluminium button to the R.N.Z.A.O.C. Brass backed, with the maker marked of "FIRMIN LONDON".
- Above Right: A gold tone, fixed shank 17mm anodised aluminium button to the R.N.Z.A.O.C. Brass backed, with the maker marked of "FIRMIN LONDON". |
- Opposite: A pair of Silver tone, fixed shank 14mm anodised aluminium button to the R.N.Z.A.O.C. Brass backed, with the maker marked of "GAUNT LONDON".
- Above: A Queens Crown, other ranks Belt buckle to the Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. A separate Cap badge sized badge to center, made from gilt metal and resin. To back are two looped lugs, held to buckle plate by a pin and leather washers. No maker mark.
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- Above: Cloth shoulder title to the Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. The bottom is a a later style shoulder title with embroidered border.
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The R.N.Z.A.O.C. was absorbed into the Royal New Zealand Logistics Regiment on 9th December 1996.
NZ School of Musketry
During WW1, a specialised School of Musketry was set up to establish a standard in Rifle Expertise amongst the Reinforcements.
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- Opposite: A Officers gilt brass Cap badge to the NZ School of Musketry. This is the void type of Cap badge, with a non-void variation also seen. Copper wire looped lugs to back.
- Above: A Officers gilt Collar badge pair to the NZ School of Musketry. Either wire looped lugs or flat brass hex type to back. |
- Opposite: A pair of Collar badges worn by ordinary ranks in the NZ School of Musketry. The Cap badge is just a larger version of these two badges.
All are single piece, gilt brass, with two copper wire looped lugs to back.
No maker mark.
All are single piece, gilt brass, with two copper wire looped lugs to back.
No maker mark.
New Zealand Maori Pioneer Battalion
On the 20th of Feb 1916, the New Zealand Maori Pioneer Battalion was formed and in April 1916 it left for France.
The Battalion was disbanded in New Zealand in April 1919.
There are 4 types or styles of badge the Battalion wore from 1916 to 1919.
Motto: Hoko Whitu A Tu (War party of Tu).
The Battalion was disbanded in New Zealand in April 1919.
There are 4 types or styles of badge the Battalion wore from 1916 to 1919.
Motto: Hoko Whitu A Tu (War party of Tu).
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- Opposite & Above: A scarce 1st type Cap badge to the New Zealand Pioneer Battalion. Small "N.Z.N.C" to lower front. This badge is impressed to back in two places to "WATT" and "AUCK". Two short copper looped lugs to back. Size 37mm by 28mm.
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- Above: A scarce 1st type Collar badge to the New Zealand Pioneer Battalion. Small "N.Z.N.C" or New Zealand Native Corps at the base. Size 25mm diameter.
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- Opposite: The 2nd type of Cap or Collar badges (worn as either) to the New Zealand Native Corps in Bronze, with the larger N.Z.N.C. to base. They have distinct copper wire lugs to back, which appear to be the tops of the split or cotter pin used to hold a badge to a uniform/hat. No maker mark and size 35mm by 26mm.
- Opposite: The 2nd type of Cap or Collar badges (worn as either) to the New Zealand Native Corps in gilt brass, with the larger N.Z.N.C. to base. Three different types. Left is die stamped brass with both lugs gone, and a single wire loop soldered messily to back. Middle has a brooch fitting to back, and right is sandcast, with two copper looped lugs. Size 35mm by 26mm.
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- Opposite and Above: The 3rd Type of Cap and Collar badge to the New Zealand Pioneer Battalion. Note this badge is widely faked, and taken from dies used by the British firm Firmin. The three have either copper looped lugs (to the Cap) or D shaped Copper lugs (to the collars). All have a maker plaque to "J R Gaunt London".
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- Opposite and Above: The 3rd Type of Cap and Collar badge to the New Zealand Pioneer Battalion again. Note the necklace has been removed. Maori tradition does not permit a Warrior to wear jewellery into battle, so they modified the badge in the field by removing the necklace just below the Warriors head. All three badges are made by "J R Gaunt London".
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- Above: A gilt brass Collar badge pair to the New Zealand Pioneer Battalion. Both have had their necklaces removed and are not maker marked. Both have two copper D shaped looped lugs to back. Possible Gaunt made.
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- Above: The 4th Type of Cap or Collar (worn as either) to the New Zealand Maori Pioneer Battalion in gilt brass. This was the last type, and worn home to NZ when the Battalion was disbanded in 1919. Note the base of the badge just has the large letters "N.Z." to base. All three have D shaped copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark. Size 35mm by 26mm.
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- Opposite: A early set of Shoulder titles to the New Zealand Native Corps (N.Z.N.C.). Both are gilt brass and are impressed to back to "J R Gaunt, London". Size 15mm by 52mm.
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- Opposite: During WW1 the Cook Island Company was formed and sailed for service in the middle East. There has yet to be any recorded pictures that the opposite badge was worn at the time. Its felt that this badge was issued to WW2 Raratongan Home Guard Units. It comes with matching collars, though they are very rare. Note the banner with "Cook Is Coy". Two copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. 
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- Above: A cast bronze collar badge in the form of the 3rd type of badge to the New Zealand Pioneer Battalion, with necklace removed. Note this badge has two tangs or blades to its solid back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A brass trade badge for a Pioneer. Crossed Axes. This badge also come with its circular backing plate and would sit on the Soldiers Sleeve.
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- Above: A embroidered thread and khaki wool backed trade sleeve badge for a Pioneer (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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Royal New Zealand Military Police
The New Zealand Military Police was first formed in 1915, but was disbanded at the conclusion of WW1. It then reformed again at the start of WW2, but was replaced by Provost Companies in 1946.
The New Zealand Provost Corps was then formed on the 18th of Feb 1949, with the Corps gaining the prefix "Royal" on the 18th of July 1952.
Motto: Ko Tatou Hei Tauira (We serve as examples).
The New Zealand Provost Corps was then formed on the 18th of Feb 1949, with the Corps gaining the prefix "Royal" on the 18th of July 1952.
Motto: Ko Tatou Hei Tauira (We serve as examples).
- Above: A single piece, gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Military Police. Not marked, but thin twisted copper wire lugs to back, which are found on a number of other WW1 New Zealand made badges.
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- Above: A matching pair of Collar badges to the New Zealand Military Police. These are the same design as the Cap badge, but with the lower banner removed or cut off. Both have two hex type brass flat lugs to back. No maker mark and likely WW1.
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Two of the largest training camps during WW1 had their own Camp Military Police Force.
- Above and Opposite: A bi-metal Cap and Collar badge to Trentham Camp Military Police. All have Copper wire lugs to back. No maker mark to either. |
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- Above and Opposite: A bi-metal Cap and Collar badge to Featherston Camp Military Police. All have hex type brass lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Opposite Left: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Military Police. Two thick copper looped lugs to back and a mark mark of "M & K, W" for Mayer & Kean, Wellington. This would likely be the WW2 version of the badge.
- Opposite Right: A chromed Cap badge to the New Zealand Military Police. Like the Gilt brass version, it has a maker mark of "M & K, W" and two copper looped lugs. |
- Above Right: A brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Military Police. Like the below curved examples, this is just a modified N.Z.M.R (New Zealand Mounted Rifles) title, with the foot of the "R" removed. It has two D shaped copper loops to back, with no maker mark. Size 14mm by 51mm.
- Above: A pair of brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Military Police. These are just modified N.Z.M.R (New Zealand Mounted Rifles) titles, with the foot of the "R" removed.
Both have hex type brass lugs to back and are maker impressed to "J R Gaunt, London" to the back of the "Z". Size 14mm by 48mm (roughly). |
- Above Top: A single brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Military Police. Hex type lugs to back, but no maker mark Size 14mm by 48mm (roughly).
- Above Base: A single brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Military Police. Copper looped lugs to back, with maker mark of "Stokes & Sons impressed. Size 15mm by 48mm (roughly). |
Note: The above version of the New Zealand Military Police Badges are widely faked, and has been for a number of years, both the Cap and Collar.
A commemorative box set of badges were also produced by the Corps which can confuse what its original and what is not.
A commemorative box set of badges were also produced by the Corps which can confuse what its original and what is not.
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- Above & Opposite: A early post 1952 Cap and Collar set in Silver plate (Cap) and frosted Silver (Collars, but not hallmarked) to the Royal New Zealand Provost Corps. No badge is maker marked, and all have looped lugs to back.
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- Opposite Bottom: A anodised aluminium staybrite Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Provost Corps. This badge as looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
- Opposite Middle Row & Bottom: A anodised aluminium staybrite Cap and Collar set to the Royal New Zealand Provost Corps. Pins and clutches to back. The Cap badge is maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London".
- Opposite Middle Row & Bottom: A anodised aluminium staybrite Cap and Collar set to the Royal New Zealand Provost Corps. Pins and clutches to back. The Cap badge is maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London".
This is the current version of the cap badge now worn. The title was changed again in the 1980's to Royal New Zealand Military Police.
- Center A chromed metal and blue resin Cap badge with two screw fittings to back and the maker mark of "Mayer Toye Ltd, Wellington". - Left & Right: Two chromed metal and blue resin Collar badges to the Royal New Zealand Military Police. No maker mark. |
- Above Left: A belt buckle center to the Royal New Zealand Military Police. No maker mark.
- Above Right: A chromed metal and blue resin Cap badge with a bar fitting to back and the maker mark of "Mayer & Toye WGTN NZ" and their phone number. |
- Above: A Officers bullion thread and cloth Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Military Police. No maker mark to back.
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- Above Top and Middle: Cloth shoulder titles to the Royal New Zealand Provost Corps. Gold letters on a dark blue background. Note the top is faded.
- Above Bottom: A cloth shoulder title to the Royal New Zealand Military Police. White letters on a blue background. |
- Opposite: An earlier puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the Royal New Zealand Provost Corps. Dark Blue/Dark Blue/Dark Blue.
-Above: Same puggaree to the Royal New Zealand Provost Corps. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "7 1/4".
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- Above: A 25mm, anodised aluminium or stybright button to the Royal New Zealand Provost Corps. Brass backed, with fixed shank, it is maker marked to "Buttons Ltd, Birmingham" and with crossed swords.
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New Zealand Women's National Service Corps
Formed during WW2 in 1941, the New Zealand Women's National Service Corps was set up to assist and provide recruitment to the New Zealand Army of typists, drivers and cooks. It became part of the New Zealand Army Service corps in 1942.
- Opposite: A scarce gilt brass cap badge to the New Zealand Women's National Service Corps (W.N.S.C).
No maker mark and with two copper loops to back.
- Opposite: A scarce gilt brass cap badge to the New Zealand Women's National Service Corps (W.N.S.C).
No maker mark and with two copper loops to back.
New Zealand Women's Land Corps/Service
In 1941 the New Zealand Women's Land Corps was formed by the New Zealand Women's War Service Auxiliary. They changed their title to New Zealand Women's Land Service in late 1942.
The service was disbanded at the end of WW2.
The service was disbanded at the end of WW2.
- Above Left: A gilt brass blouse badge, with broach fitting to back to the New Zealand Women's Land Service as issued.
Above Right: A gilt brass Cap badge, with lugs to back to the New Zealand Women's Land Service as issued. |
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- Opposite: Early Land Service titles in light blue embroidered letters on a brown background, with a lighter brown border.
New Zealand Women's Royal Army Corps
The New Zealand Women's Auxiliary Army Corps formed in July 1942, and became a Corps of the regular New Zealand Army in 1947.
Motto: Pro Patria (For our country).
Motto: Pro Patria (For our country).
- Above: A gilt brass cap badge to the New Zealand Women's Auxiliary Army Corps (W.A.A.C). Maker marked to lower back, left to "M & K, W" or Mayer & Kean, Wellington. No collars appear to be issued with this badge.
Size 41mm by 35.5mm. |
- Above: In 1952, the Corps was awarded the prefix "Royal" to their title, and at some stage the commissioned badge from Stokes & Sons of Melbourne. This is the two piece, other ranks Cap badge to the New Zealand Women's Royal Army Corps. Maker marked to "Stokes Melb" to back.
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- Above: A rare Officers gilt fired brass, Silver and enamel Cap badge to the New Zealand Women's Royal Army Corps. It is maker marked to "Stokes Melb" to back.
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- Above: A rare Officers opposing gilt fired brass, Silver and enamel Collar set to the New Zealand Women's Royal Army Corps. Both are not maker marked, and have lugs in a North/South config, with the loops twisted so that the openings are to the side. A feature more common on a Australian Army Cap/Collar.
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- Above: A anodised aluminium staybrite Cap badge, note only 2 tone, with the green missing from central wreath. Separate Tui is again attached to center. No maker mark and pins and clutches to back.
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- Above: A pair of opposing anodised aluminium staybrite Collar badges to the New Zealand Women's Royal Army Corps. They are both single piece, three tone, with pins and clutches to back. Both are maker marked to "J R Gaunt London".
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- Above: A anodised aluminium staybrite Cap and Collar badge to the New Zealand Women's Royal Army Corps. Both are three tone, with the Collar a single piece, and Cap 2 piece, with separate Tui applied to center.
Both have looped lugs to back, and the collar is maker marked to "J R Gaunt London. |
- Above: A gilt tone, anodised aluminium 26mm button to the New Zealand Women's Royal Army Corps. Queens crown, it is maker marked to "Gaunt, London" to back, with fixed shank.
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- Opposite Top: A early cloth shoulder title to the New Zealand Womens Royal Army Corps. Tartan Green letters on a Beech Brown felt background.
- Opposite Middle and Bottom: Two cloth shoulder title to the New Zealand Womens Royal Army Corps. Just slight variation in lettering size between them, with white letters on a Tartan green/black felt background.
In July 1977, the corps was disbanded and all personnel were transferred to other parts of the New Zealand Defense Force.
- Opposite Middle and Bottom: Two cloth shoulder title to the New Zealand Womens Royal Army Corps. Just slight variation in lettering size between them, with white letters on a Tartan green/black felt background.
In July 1977, the corps was disbanded and all personnel were transferred to other parts of the New Zealand Defense Force.
Services Vegetable Production
The New Zealand Government recognised by early 1942 that vegetables would have to be grown on a massive scale if the American and New Zealand troops serving in the Pacific war were to be properly fed.
When the government's Services' Vegetable Production Scheme came into force in July 1942, growers undertook to produce huge quantities of vegetables, with State farms also being established to meet any shortfall.
The scheme was shut down in 1945 as hostilities ceased.
- Opposite: A gilt brass badge to the Services Vegetable Production (SVP). This badge is brooched to back, but the one or two other examples I have seen of this badge, also have copper looped lugs, in a North/South config, which begs the question whether they came in two types, brooched or lugged.
Maker marked to back to "M & K, W" or Mayer and Kean, Wellington.
When the government's Services' Vegetable Production Scheme came into force in July 1942, growers undertook to produce huge quantities of vegetables, with State farms also being established to meet any shortfall.
The scheme was shut down in 1945 as hostilities ceased.
- Opposite: A gilt brass badge to the Services Vegetable Production (SVP). This badge is brooched to back, but the one or two other examples I have seen of this badge, also have copper looped lugs, in a North/South config, which begs the question whether they came in two types, brooched or lugged.
Maker marked to back to "M & K, W" or Mayer and Kean, Wellington.
Royal New Zealand Corps of Signals
The New Zealand Corps of Signals form in 1912 from companies withing the New Zealand Engineers. It amalgamated with the New Zealand Post and Telegraph Corps on the 1st of June 1921.
Motto: Sodales Parati (Prepared as comrades together).
Opposite: A superb drawing from the New Zealand Archives, attached to a letter written on the 17th of May 1917.
"Memorandum for the
P.M.O.
Trentham
Regimental Badges
With reference to the attached request can you kindly supply these badges.
Lt A Hills (Lieut for the D.G.M.S)"
Note on the 27th of Feb 1912, the badge was approved, with the amendment to the banner to read "New Zealand Signal Corps".
It was then approved for wear for all Companies of the NZ Signal Corps on the 2nd March 1912.
Motto: Sodales Parati (Prepared as comrades together).
Opposite: A superb drawing from the New Zealand Archives, attached to a letter written on the 17th of May 1917.
"Memorandum for the
P.M.O.
Trentham
Regimental Badges
With reference to the attached request can you kindly supply these badges.
Lt A Hills (Lieut for the D.G.M.S)"
Note on the 27th of Feb 1912, the badge was approved, with the amendment to the banner to read "New Zealand Signal Corps".
It was then approved for wear for all Companies of the NZ Signal Corps on the 2nd March 1912.
Up to this point there has been considerable push-back by individual Signal Companies, all wanting their own bespoke badge representing their Military District. They were overruled by the General Officer Commanding as per memo dated 30th of Aug 1911.
- Opposite: A hand drawn design for the Wellington Infantry Brigade Signal Company badge, which was submitted by its CO on the 28th of Aug 1911.
The design was not approved.
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
- Opposite: A hand drawn design for the Wellington Infantry Brigade Signal Company badge, which was submitted by its CO on the 28th of Aug 1911.
The design was not approved.
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
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- Opposite and Above: Prior to WW1 a large, die stamped oversized badge was worn by some companies of the New Zealand Corps of Signals. Opposite is the oversize Cap badge in gilt brass. Note the ball missing to lower right, which seems to be a die fault, and I have seen a handful of these badges with the same missing tip. Above are what are termed as "rough" type Collar badges (which are actually later Cap badge in size). All three badges are not maker marked. All have thin copper loops to back.
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- Opposite and Above: A darkened copper set of Cap and Collar badges to the New Zealand Corps of Signals. All are semi-solid to back and maker marked to back. The Cap has "Stokes & Sons Melbourne", while the Collars just have "Stokes & Sons Melb". They all have rounded copper loops to back.
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- Opposite and Above: A gilt set of Cap and Collar badges to the New Zealand Corps of Signals. All are semi-solid to back and maker marked to back. The Cap has "Stokes & Sons Melbourne", while the Collars just have "Stokes & Sons Melb". They all have rounded copper loops to back.
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- Opposite and Above: A gilt brass, die stamped set of Cap and Collar badges to the New Zealand Corps of Signals. All have D shaped copper looped lugs to back, and the maker plaque of "J R Gaunt London".
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- Above: A study in size of the New Zealand Corps of Signals Badges. Left is the oversized, pre-WW1 Cap badge roughly 51mm by 42mm. Center is a standard Cap badge roughly 41mm by 32mm. Right is a standard Collar badge roughly 31mm by 25mm.
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- Above: A unmarked gilt brass Collar badge set to the New Zealand Corps of Signals. D shaped copper looped lugs to back, so likely a unmarked Gaunt made pair.
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- Above Left: Prior and early in WW1 the NZ Corps of Signals wore the British "Signal Service" Shoulder title. Opposite are two examples of such a title.
- Above Right: A pair of gilt brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Corps of Signals (N.Z.C.S). They have hex type lugs to back and are not maker marked. |
In 1938, New Zealand adopted the British pattern of Signals Corps Cap and Collar badge.
- Above: A scarce gilt fired, solid backed and silver center (not marked) Cap and Collar badge to the New Zealand Corps of Signals. Copper looped lugs to back, no maker mark. |
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- Above: A variation on the New Zealand Corps of Signals Cap and Collar badge in darkened finish. Note the Cap has a slider to back. No maker marks to either.
- Opposite: A striking image of a Captain in the New Zealand Corps of Signals. He wears a darkened "Onwards" Cap badge to his hat, but has a darkened New Zealand Corps of Signals Collar. He also appears to wear a ribbon for the Military Cross. Sadly image is not named or dated. |
In 1947, the Corps was awarded the prefix "Royal", and this meant a change in title and badge. Again, the UK pattern of badge was adopted by the Corps.
Motto: Certa Cito (Fast and sure).
Motto: Certa Cito (Fast and sure).
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- Opposite & Above: A gilt fired Brass & Silver (marked) Cap and Collar badge set to the Royal New Zealand Signals. Most of these badges are British, with a separate lower scroll attached, and brazed to middle and either end. Impressed to back to "J R Gaunt London" and "S" for Silver. All have looped lugs to back. The Cap badge crown, is tanged to back. Size of Crown 10mm by 10mm, size of Cap and Collars 40mm by 26mm.
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- Above: A back image to show the difference between a Cap badge (left) and a Collar badge (right). Its all in the length of the lugs, with the longer being the Cap badge, and shorter being the Collar. Both these badges are pictured above, and are impress to "J R Gaunt London" and "S" for Silver.
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- Above: A gilt Brass & white metal Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Signals. Long looped lugs to back, with the crown, having a single hex lug. Size of Crown 11mm by 11mm, size of Cap 40mm by 26mm.
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- Above: A gilt Brass & white metal Collar badge to the Royal New Zealand Signals. D shaped copper lugs to back, and maker impressed to "J R Gaunt London". Size 40mm by 26mm.
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- Opposite & Above: A gilt Brass & white metal Cap and Collar badge set to the Royal New Zealand Signals. All have looped lugs to back. The Cap badge crown, has a hex lug to back. Size of Crown 11mm by 11mm, size of Cap and Collars 40mm by 26mm.
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- Above: A set of anodised aluminium staybrite Cap badge and collars to the Royal New Zealand Corps of Signals. No maker mark to back and come either with lugs or pins. Not a great badge in terms of wear or to collect as they are rather fragile and break either on the pins to back or on the leg in the center.
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- Above: A Officers bullion and cloth Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Corps of Signals.
No maker mark to back. |
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- Opposite: The current version of the Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Signals Corps in gilt and white metal. This badge has screw posts to back, but no maker mark.
- Above: Cloth Shoulder titles to the Royal New Zealand Signals Corps. White letters on a Spectrum Blue background. The top title is smaller, but a little grubby through wear. |
- Opposite: A hard to get, silver tone, fixed shank 14mm anodised aluminium button to the Royal New Zealand Signals Corps. Note the front of the button resembles the Cap badge above, including the round banner at the base of the badge. This differs to the UK and other Commonwealth ones. Brass backed, with the maker marked of "GAUNT LONDON".
I have seen these go for huge sums in terms of modern anodised aluminium button prices.
I have seen these go for huge sums in terms of modern anodised aluminium button prices.
- Above: A embroidered thread and cloth Signalers Sleeve badge (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: A embroidered thread and cloth Signalers Sleeve badge (Ian Hamilton Collection). Slight differences in flag ends.
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- Above: A gilt brass and enamel Signalers Sleeve trade or proficiency badge. Perfect, with brass backing plate (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: Same badge again, but this is how you often find them, with sadly the enamel being damaged. Four copper looped lugs to back, no maker mark.
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- Above: A gilt brass Signalers Sleeve badge. Four copper looped lugs to back, no maker mark.
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- Above: A gilt brass Signalers Sleeve badge. Four copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark. Note the pattern to the flags is different to the other.
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- Opposite: A puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the Royal New Zealand Signal Corps. This is the 3rd type.
1st type: - Pre - 1920 - Khaki/Light Blue/Khaki.
2nd type: - 1935 - Khaki/Half White - Half Light Blue/Khaki.
3rd Type: - Light Blue/Dark Blue/Light Blue.
Slightly fade in colour. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "7". Note the puggaree has been folded side-on.
1st type: - Pre - 1920 - Khaki/Light Blue/Khaki.
2nd type: - 1935 - Khaki/Half White - Half Light Blue/Khaki.
3rd Type: - Light Blue/Dark Blue/Light Blue.
Slightly fade in colour. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "7". Note the puggaree has been folded side-on.
New Zealand Post & Telegraph Corps
The New Zealand Post & Telegraph Corps was formed on the 7th of October 1911 as part of the New Zealand Engineers.
Their badge was described on the 11th of May, 1912 as:
"Winged foot surmounted by a scroll inscribed "Celeritas" and a crown.
- scroll with "N.Z.P & T.C." below."
(Cadets, Regimental Badges and Uniforms R21078962 Box 19 AD37 24 c1912 Archives N.Z.).
They amalgamated in June 1921 and became part of the New Zealand Corps of Signals, and their badges were ceased to be worn.
Motto: Celeritas (Swiftly).
Their badge was described on the 11th of May, 1912 as:
"Winged foot surmounted by a scroll inscribed "Celeritas" and a crown.
- scroll with "N.Z.P & T.C." below."
(Cadets, Regimental Badges and Uniforms R21078962 Box 19 AD37 24 c1912 Archives N.Z.).
They amalgamated in June 1921 and became part of the New Zealand Corps of Signals, and their badges were ceased to be worn.
Motto: Celeritas (Swiftly).
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- Opposite and Above: A solid Bronze Officers Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Post & Telegraph Corps. All are maker mark impressed to the back of the foot (vertical) to "J R Gaunt London". The Cap badge has two blades or tangs to back, while the Collars have two D shaped copper looped lugs. Note the above left Collar has been polished to front.
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- Opposite & Above: A gilt brass Cap and Collar badge pair to the New Zealand Post & Telegraph Corps. Note the Collars are opposing, with "Big Toes" to center. All have two copper looped lugs to back, with the Collars having D-shaped, while the Cap, large round. All have a maker plaque to "J R Gaunt London". Size of Cap is 42mm by 46mm, Collar size is 31mm by 33mm.
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- Above: A silver washed cap badge to the New Zealand Post & Telegraph Corps. Purpose is unknown, but marked to back with plaque to "J R Gaunt London.
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- Above Left: A gilt brass variation in the Cap badge to the New Zealand Post & Telegraph Corps. Wide crown and a sharper curve to the lower banner. Not maker marked and has two thick copper wire loops to back.
- Above Right: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Post & Telegraph Corps. Two thin wire lugs to back, with maker stamped mark to back of banner to "Bock Wellington". It also has a "WB" to lower right of the banner swirl to front. |
- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Post & Telegraph Corps. Marked to front again to "WB" to the right in the lower banner swirl. Two brass hex type lugs to back. Not much detail to back.
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- Above: A matching pair of gilt brass Collar badges to the New Zealand Post & Telegraph Corps. Both have the "WB" to the lower right in the banner swirl. Note the big toes, as they are opposing. No one side is harder to get, its more its hard to get a matching set!!!
Both have two hex type brass lugs to back. |
Opposite are four buttons to the New Zealand Postal & Telegraph. General consensus among collectors is that the white metal version (seen here on the right) are worn by Civilians working for the NZ Government in New Zealand. The brass versions are still an anomaly and could be military, yet no photo has yet been found which shows their wear.
- Left: A brass 21mm button with Kings Crown and "P. & T., N.Z" to front. Maker marked to back to "Stokes & Sons, Melb"
- Above 2nd from Left: A brass 21mm button with Kings Crown and "P. & T., N.Z" to front. Maker marked to back to "Ross & Glenning Ltd"
- Above 2nd from Right: A white metal, 19mm button, with Kings Crown and "P. & T., N.Z" to front. Maker marked to back to "J. R. Gaunt & Son Ltd, London"
- Above Right: A white metal, 16mm button, with Kings Crown and "P. & T., N.Z" to front. Maker marked to back to "Buttons Ltd, Bham", with crossed swords.
- Left: A brass 21mm button with Kings Crown and "P. & T., N.Z" to front. Maker marked to back to "Stokes & Sons, Melb"
- Above 2nd from Left: A brass 21mm button with Kings Crown and "P. & T., N.Z" to front. Maker marked to back to "Ross & Glenning Ltd"
- Above 2nd from Right: A white metal, 19mm button, with Kings Crown and "P. & T., N.Z" to front. Maker marked to back to "J. R. Gaunt & Son Ltd, London"
- Above Right: A white metal, 16mm button, with Kings Crown and "P. & T., N.Z" to front. Maker marked to back to "Buttons Ltd, Bham", with crossed swords.
- Above: A pair of gilt brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Army Postal Service. One is maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London" to back. Both have thick hex type lugs to back.
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- A pair of darkened shoulder titles to the New Zealand Post & Telegraph Corps. Both are maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London" to back, and have hex type, brass lugs.
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Above & Opposite: A pair of WW2 era Bakelite and darkened metal Morse Keys to the New Zealand Army. Both have "NZ" to the underside of the Bakelite base, while on top at the end, is marked "Key W.T. 8 Amp No. 2". Both are also NZ Defense Force marked to the handle with "N/I\Z".
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New Zealand got the wireless "bug" just prior to WW1, with a number of commercial enterprises offering courses. Dominion Collage seem to have offer a course in 1916 in the "Great Wireless Way", and a 1920 advert indicated you could "See the World" if becoming a "ships Wireless Operator".
Many of New Zealand Defense Forces I'm sure passed through its doors. They seem to have had Offices in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin.
- Opposite: A small Stirling Silver badge to the Dominion Collage of Wireless of New Zealand. Brooch fitting to back, with a small separate plaque with "Stg Sil" for Stirling Silver.
Many of New Zealand Defense Forces I'm sure passed through its doors. They seem to have had Offices in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin.
- Opposite: A small Stirling Silver badge to the Dominion Collage of Wireless of New Zealand. Brooch fitting to back, with a small separate plaque with "Stg Sil" for Stirling Silver.
Just prior to WW2, the New Zealand Post Office moved its training facilities from Wellington, to the old Army base at Trentham in 1939. Students lived in the old WW1 Army huts while attending the course.
It seems to have operated until at least 1965 (founds from information on-line).
- Opposite - A enamel and gilt metal badge to the "New Zealand Post Office, Signals Training School, Trentham". Brooch fitting to back, with the maker mark of "Mayer & Kean, Wellington".
It seems to have operated until at least 1965 (founds from information on-line).
- Opposite - A enamel and gilt metal badge to the "New Zealand Post Office, Signals Training School, Trentham". Brooch fitting to back, with the maker mark of "Mayer & Kean, Wellington".
New Zealand Army Pay Corps
The New Zealand Army Pay Department was formed in May 1917.
During WW1, members of the Department were attached to the Regiments and wore the units insignia while serving overseas.
It was re-titled the New Zealand Army Pay Corps on the 21st of July 1920.
During WW1, members of the Department were attached to the Regiments and wore the units insignia while serving overseas.
It was re-titled the New Zealand Army Pay Corps on the 21st of July 1920.
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- Opposite and Above: A Cap and two gilt brass Collar badges to the 1920 to 1924 New Zealand Army Pay Corps. No maker mark, and with hex type lugs Cap and the above left Collar (the other has wire looped lugs to back).
No maker mark to either. Note the Cap and left collar have a voided crown. |
- Above: A matching pair of New Zealand Army Pay Corps (NZAPC) shoulder titles in thick gilt brass, with the maker mark of "J R Gaunt London" impressed to back.
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- Above: A near matching pair of New Zealand Army Pay Corps (NZAPC) shoulder titles in thin, die stamped gilt brass with no maker mark, and thin Reinforcement like hex brass lugs to back.
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In 1930 the corps was disbanded and it is thought that it existed on paper only.
Its function would have been dispersed within the regiments and formations of the New Zealand Army at the time.
During WW2, the Corps was again reactivated and personnel assigned, but it was reduced in strength and disbanded again after WW2.
Corbett indicates that in 1969, the corps was re-activated and the kings crown badge continued to be worn.
Its function would have been dispersed within the regiments and formations of the New Zealand Army at the time.
During WW2, the Corps was again reactivated and personnel assigned, but it was reduced in strength and disbanded again after WW2.
Corbett indicates that in 1969, the corps was re-activated and the kings crown badge continued to be worn.
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- Above & Opposite: A gilt brass Cap and collar badge set to the New Zealand Army Pay Corps. No maker mark to back, and with two copper wire looped lugs to each. Note the Lions are opposing to top of collars.
Size of Cap is 41mm by 33mm, Collar is 31mm by 25mm. |
- Above: A gilt brass Collar badge pair to the New Zealand Army Pay Corps. Both these are maker marked, see opposite.
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- Above: Same Collars to the New Zealand Army Pay Corps, but a picture of the back. Note the D shaped copper looped lugs to back, and with the maker plaque of "J R Gaunt London". Size of Collar is 31mm by 25mm.
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In October 1978, approval was given to update the Corps badge with St Edwards Crown.
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- Opposite and Above: A shiny gilt metal Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Army Pay Corps with Queens Crown, worn post 1978. None are maker marked to back, and are sadly very poorly made. Note the Lions to the top of the Collars are opposing.
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- Above: A gilt metal Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Pay Corps. Two screw posts to back, no maker mark.
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- Opposite and Above: A gilt metal Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Army Pay Corps. Better made, and solid to back. All have looped lugs in a East/West configuration. None are maker marked. Size of Cap 45mm by 33mm.
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- Above: A pair of cloth shoulder titles to the New Zealand Army Pay Corps. Just slight variation in colour, otherwise midnight blue letters on a Indian yellow background.
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- Above: A pair of right (when worn - note how the Lion to top faces) gilt metal Collar badges to the New Zealand Army Pay Corps. They are on their original Master and Sample cards. The NATO NSN of 8455-98-202-0751 does come back with a part number of "HC2/247/1-COLLAR-R" and details of
Codification Country: New Zealand
Item Name Code: 10024
NATO Supply Group: Clothing, Individual Equipment, and Insignia
NATO Supply Class: Badges & Insignia
National Item Identification Number: NIIN 982020751
Interestingly the Master tag also shows the acceptance date of the 20th of Oct 1993.
8455-98-202-0750 may be the left Collar badge to the NZAPC as it has a part number of HC2/247/1-COLLAR-L.
Codification Country: New Zealand
Item Name Code: 10024
NATO Supply Group: Clothing, Individual Equipment, and Insignia
NATO Supply Class: Badges & Insignia
National Item Identification Number: NIIN 982020751
Interestingly the Master tag also shows the acceptance date of the 20th of Oct 1993.
8455-98-202-0750 may be the left Collar badge to the NZAPC as it has a part number of HC2/247/1-COLLAR-L.
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- Above: A puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the New Zealand Army Pay Corps. Khaki/Yellow/Khaki. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "6 7/8". It is thought that these were first issued during WW2.
- Opposite: More variation in the shoulder title for the New Zealand Army Pay Corps. Note the bottom is a more modern version, with the embroidered border/edge. |
The corps was finally disbanded on the 31st of July 1993.
New Zealand Permanent Staff
The New Zealand Permanent Staff was form in 1911, along with the New Zealand Army. Initially they took their badges from the British Staff Corps, with the Lion over the Crown as being their badge.
- Above: A Staff Corps Cap Badge still on part of a J R Gaunt or London Sample board. In bronze, with tangs to back in a North/South Config. Gaunts code of "F2607" is hand written to lower right corner on the cardboard. Size 41mm by 23mm.
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- Above: Another variation of a Officers Staff Cap badge. Note a number of British regiments also wore this badge as both a Cap and Collars, and there are just variation on the tail and how many support it has. Two tangs to back, but no maker mark. Size 39mm by 26mm.
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As WW1 progressed, New Zealand Staff Officers did personalise their uniforms with the additions of Fern Leaf Collars.
- Opposite: A darkened copper pair of Collar badges to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back on each. No maker mark. Size 20mm by 45mm.
- Opposite: A gilt brass pair of Collar badges to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. In 1937, with the coronation of George VI, the NZ Army Coronation Contingent wore these same shaped Collars with a special Cap badge to the Kings Coronation ceremony. Two copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark. Size 20mm by 45mm.
- Opposite: With the Corps also deployed in the middle east during WW1, these sand cast brass Collar badges also appeared and have been associated with the New Zealand Permanent Staff Corps. Size (approx as they vary) 22.5mm by 45mm.
The following are miss-matched pairs, like everything, it is hard to find a matching set!!!
- Opposite Left: A darkened brass Collar badge to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Wider, it has thin copper wire lugs to back. No maker mark. Size 21mm by 45mm.
- Opposite Right: Same as above, a sand cast brass Collar badge associated with the New Zealand Permanent Staff Corps. Two copper looped lugs cast into the back of the badge. Size (approx as they vary) 23mm by 46mm.
- Opposite Right: Same as above, a sand cast brass Collar badge associated with the New Zealand Permanent Staff Corps. Two copper looped lugs cast into the back of the badge. Size (approx as they vary) 23mm by 46mm.
- Opposite Left: A sand cast gilt brass Collar badge to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Two thick copper wire loops to back. No maker mark. Size 20mm by 42mm.
- Opposite Right: A die stamped, solid backed Collar badge in gilt brass to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Two copper looped lugs to back of the badge. No maker mark. Size 21mm by 46mm.
- Opposite Right: A die stamped, solid backed Collar badge in gilt brass to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Two copper looped lugs to back of the badge. No maker mark. Size 21mm by 46mm.
- Opposite: A coppery gilt Collar badge to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. D shaped copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark. Size 20mm by 45mm.
In 1921, approval was given to the New Zealand Permanent Staff to have their own distinctive Cap badge and Collars.
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- Opposite: A darkened bronze Cap badge to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Two thick looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Size 49mm by 43mm.
- Above: Two darkened Bronze Collar badge to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Two looped lugs to back to each, both are impressed to back to "FIRMIN LONDON". Size 31mm by 25mm. |
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The Kings Crown New Zealand Permanent Staff Cap Badge and Collars are still worn today.
- Opposite and Above: A modern darkened copper Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. The Cap badge has two screw threads to be used with nuts to back, while the Collars have pins and clutches. None are maker marked. Cap size 49mm by 41mm, Collar size 30mm by 27mm. |
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- Above Left: A darkened brass Collar badge (right when worn) to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Two D shaped looped lugs to back, and maker impress to "DOWLER BIRMINGHAM". Size 30mm by 26mm.
- Above Right: A darkened copper Collar badge to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Two thick copper wire lugs to back, with no maker mark. Size 32mm by 26mm. |
-Above: A pair of small Officers shoulder titles to the New Zealand Permanent Staff Corps. No maker mark to back, with two D shaped copper loops. Size 11mm by 46mm.
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- Above Left: A 24mm Gilt brass button to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Maker marked to back to "Buttons Ltd, Birmingham".
(Made in the same size by "Smith & Wright Ltd, Birmingham" with fixed shank). - Above Center: A 20mm Gilt brass button to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Maker marked to back to "Buttons Limited, Birmingham". - Above Right: A 16mm Gilt brass button to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Maker marked to back to "Buttons Ltd, B'ham". |
- Above: A darkened 24mm, fixed shank brass button to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Maker marked to back to "Smith & Wright Ltd, Birmingham".
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- Opposite: A puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the New Zealand Permanent Staff Corps. Red/Red/Red. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "7".
Note this puggaree colour combination has also be used by:
- Ceremonial or Honor Guard.
- EIIR Coronation Contingent
Note this puggaree colour combination has also be used by:
- Ceremonial or Honor Guard.
- EIIR Coronation Contingent
- Above: A bullion embroidered Cap or Hat badge to a General.
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- Above: Car Pennants once owned by Major General Sir Leslie Arthur Pearce CB, CBE, OBE, MBE. Served in the New Zealand Army from 1938 to 1973, from Private to Major General of the New Zealand Army Chief of General Staff.
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New Zealand Staff Corps
The New Zealand Staff formed in 1911, and was the Staff Corps for the New Zealand Territorial Forces.
In times of war, it merged with the New Zealand Permanent Staff Corps, as it did so during WW1 and WW2.
In times of war, it merged with the New Zealand Permanent Staff Corps, as it did so during WW1 and WW2.
- Above: A darkened semi-solid bronze Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Staff Corps. Two blades or tangs to back, with maker mark impressed to "J R Gaunt London".
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- Above: A matching pair of semi-solid bronze Collar badges to the New Zealand Staff Corps. Both have two D shaped copper loops to back and a maker impressed mark to "J R Gaunt London".
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- Above: A gilt fired Collar to the New Zealand Staff Corps. Semi-solid, with two D shaped looped lugs to back and the maker mark impressed to "Firmin London"
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- Above: A darkened semi-solid bronze Collar badge to the New Zealand Staff Corps. Two copper D shaped lugs to back and the impressed details to Dowler Birmingham".
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During WW2, the New Zealand Temporary Staff was set up to augment the Permanent and NZ Staff Corps.
- Opposite: Are a Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Temporary Staff. Note you can find these in Brass or darkened copper, with some having longer lugs to back than others, maybe indicating a Cap badge rather than a Collar. Maker marked to back is usually "M & K Ltd", for Mayer & Keane Limited of Wellington.
The Temporary Staff existed from 1939 to 1945.
- Opposite: Are a Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Temporary Staff. Note you can find these in Brass or darkened copper, with some having longer lugs to back than others, maybe indicating a Cap badge rather than a Collar. Maker marked to back is usually "M & K Ltd", for Mayer & Keane Limited of Wellington.
The Temporary Staff existed from 1939 to 1945.
- Above: A group of mainly 3rd (Auckland) Infantry NCO's on some steps in New Zealand at some stage during WW2. Note the chap on the left, back, who is also a WW1 veteran, with ribbons to his chest. He is also wearing the New Zealand Temporary Staff Cap and collars. The Staff Sergeant on the far right, front row is also wearing a crossed rifles Marksman sleeve badge on his right sleeve in cloth.
- Above: Three gilt brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Staff Corps. All are one piece, but have different shaped hex brass lugs to back. One is maker marked to back to "J R Gaunt London"
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- Above Left: A 25mm gilt brass button to the New Zealand Staff Corps. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt & Son Ltd. London, Engld."
- Above Center: A 19mm gilt brass button to the New Zealand Staff Corps. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt & Son Ltd. London, Engd." - Above: A 16mm gilt brass button to the New Zealand Staff Corps. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt & Son Ltd. London, Engd." |
New Zealand Veterinarian Corps
New Zealand Army Veterinarian Service was formed in 1906 from Volunteer Officers.
The Corps was formed in 1907, and at was not only responsible for selecting the Horses which were to accompany the NZ Soldiers overseas, but also the health and well-being once the animals arrived in the Middle East.
Three Veterinarians were initially sent with the Main Body, which left NZ in October 1914.
Subsequently two "Mobile Veterinarian Section"s of 28 men were formed in NZ, and then sent onto Egypt, to assist. One for the New Zealand Mounted Rifles, and one for the New Zealand Infantry.
After the withdrawal from Gallipoli and the formation of the New Zealand and ANZAC Divisions in April 1916. these two New Zealand Mobile Veterinarian Section were initially disbanded and then reformed into larger units, with one based in the Milddle East, while the other seeing action in France and the Western Front.
Cap Badge - On the 10th of July 1911, their badge was approved and described as a "Badge of the A.V.C substituting the monogram "N.Z.V.C" i.e. monogram of N.Z.V.C. surmounted by an oak-leaf wreath & surmounted by a crown".
Collar Badge - "Smaller".
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Further to the above, another file indicates
"Badge - Within a oak wreath, surmounted by a crown the monogram "N.Z.V.C".
Dress Badge - Similar design in gilt with monogram in white metal.
Crest - Crown surmounting an eight point star bearing the words "New Zealand Veterinary Corps" and Royal Cypher".
(Cadets, Regimental Badges and Uniforms R21078962 Box 19 AD37 24 c1912 Archives N.Z.).
The Corps was formed in 1907, and at was not only responsible for selecting the Horses which were to accompany the NZ Soldiers overseas, but also the health and well-being once the animals arrived in the Middle East.
Three Veterinarians were initially sent with the Main Body, which left NZ in October 1914.
Subsequently two "Mobile Veterinarian Section"s of 28 men were formed in NZ, and then sent onto Egypt, to assist. One for the New Zealand Mounted Rifles, and one for the New Zealand Infantry.
After the withdrawal from Gallipoli and the formation of the New Zealand and ANZAC Divisions in April 1916. these two New Zealand Mobile Veterinarian Section were initially disbanded and then reformed into larger units, with one based in the Milddle East, while the other seeing action in France and the Western Front.
Cap Badge - On the 10th of July 1911, their badge was approved and described as a "Badge of the A.V.C substituting the monogram "N.Z.V.C" i.e. monogram of N.Z.V.C. surmounted by an oak-leaf wreath & surmounted by a crown".
Collar Badge - "Smaller".
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Further to the above, another file indicates
"Badge - Within a oak wreath, surmounted by a crown the monogram "N.Z.V.C".
Dress Badge - Similar design in gilt with monogram in white metal.
Crest - Crown surmounting an eight point star bearing the words "New Zealand Veterinary Corps" and Royal Cypher".
(Cadets, Regimental Badges and Uniforms R21078962 Box 19 AD37 24 c1912 Archives N.Z.).
- Opposite: A early, darkened Bronze Officers Cap Badge to New Zealand Veterinarian Corps, with Laurel Boarder.
Two blades or tangs to back (though one is missing), with maker plaque for "FIRMIN, LONDON" to back of crown.
I do not have a example of a gilt with white metal overlay as per the description of the "Dress badge". Both types are extremely rare.
Two blades or tangs to back (though one is missing), with maker plaque for "FIRMIN, LONDON" to back of crown.
I do not have a example of a gilt with white metal overlay as per the description of the "Dress badge". Both types are extremely rare.
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- Opposite and Above: A darkened Bronze Officers Cap and Collar badge pair to the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps. Note the Fern leaf wreath. The Cap has two tangs to back, while the Collars have D shaped copper looped lugs. No maker mark to either. The Collars are also quiet a rough cast.
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Initially when the Other Ranks arrived in Egypt for the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps, they worn no badge. Unofficially they approached local Egyptian manufacturers who made the below for the men sometime in 1915.
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- Opposite and Above: A pair of Cap badges to the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps. The "17" is the Corps number,, and is beneath the crown on the opposing badge. It has a long brass slider cast into the back. The above badge is a "cut-down version", with wreath and crown removed. Two wire loops have been soldered to back, behind the lower bottom scroll.
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- Above: The Collar badges for the above Cap badge in Cast brass to the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps. The right collar was also worn as a Cap badge. They have brass ribbon like lugs cast into the back of the badge. The left has a replaced copper wire lug, just seen in the back of the picture.
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- Above: A similar pair of cast brass collar badges to the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps. Note the right has a brooch fitting to back (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: A Pair of gilt brass Cap badges to the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps. Both are maker marked to back with a small plaque to crown to "J R Gaunt London". Note the right has a non-void crown. Both have copper looped lugs.
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- Above: A pair of other ranks, gilt brass Collar badge to the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps. Both have maker plaques to back to "J R Gaunt, London", along with two D shaped copper looped lugs.
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- Opposite: A single piece, gilt brass cap badge to the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps. No maker mark, with two copper looped lugs. This badge has been heavily lacquered, which preserves the gilt, but yellows with age.
- Above: A selection of shoulder titles to the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps (N.Z.V.C). - Top Pair: A die stamped gilt brass shoulder title pair to the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps. Maker impressed to back of the "Z" to "J R Gaunt, London". - Bottom Pair: A pair of thin gilt brass shoulder title with hex type lugs to back to the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps. No maker mark, and these look hand made. |
- Above: A cast brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps. Hex lugs to back, with no maker mark.
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- Above: A gilt brass, fixed shank, 25mm button to the New Zealand Army Veterinarian Service. Maker marked to "Firmin & Sons Ld, London". Note George V Cypher to center.
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In 1947, the New Zealand Veterinarian Service was disbanded.
New Zealand Special Air Service
The New Zealand Special Air Service started out as part of the British 22nd Special Air Service Regiment in 1955. in 1959, it became a separate Corps of the New Zealand Army.
In 1963 its title changed to the 1st Ranger Squadron, New Zealand Special Air Service.
In April 1978, its title reverted back to 1 New Zealand Special Air Service Squadron.
Motto: Who Dares Wins.
In 1963 its title changed to the 1st Ranger Squadron, New Zealand Special Air Service.
In April 1978, its title reverted back to 1 New Zealand Special Air Service Squadron.
Motto: Who Dares Wins.
- Above : A Silver bullion and thread Beret badge to the 1 New Zealand Special Air Service Squadron. No maker mark to back.
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- Above: A well worn other ranks woven Beret badge to the 1 New Zealand Special Air Service Squadron. No maker mark to back.
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- Above: A pair of Gilt fired brass and Silver collar badges to the 1 New Zealand Special Air Service Squadron. Two looped lugs to back, but no maker mark to back.
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- Above: A 25mm, anodised aluminium or staybrite silver toned button to the New Zealand Special Air Service Squadron. Brass backed, it has a fixed shank and is marker marked to "Firmin London".
- Opposite: A pair of non-matching cloth shoulder titles to the 1 New Zealand Special Air Service Squadron. The top set is a older style, with paper backing and maybe faded lettering. The bottom set has a cloth backing material and feels a more modern manufacture. |
The Counter Terrorist Tactical Assault Group (CTTAG) was set up in December 2005 to augment the Counter Terrorist (CT) role the 1st NZ Special Air Service Group already maintained. The opposite is the 1st patterned badge, adopted in 2008, and represents the trinity or "tri-service" capability.
2nd Pattern appears to be non-void to center. There is also apparently a cloth version.
- Opposite: A 1st pattern Cap badge to the New Zealand Counter Terrorist Tactical Assault Group. Made from a silver metal, solid to back, it has two screw posts to back and a maker mark, which sadly I can't make out.
Smaller versions are worn as collar badges in the same design.
2nd Pattern appears to be non-void to center. There is also apparently a cloth version.
- Opposite: A 1st pattern Cap badge to the New Zealand Counter Terrorist Tactical Assault Group. Made from a silver metal, solid to back, it has two screw posts to back and a maker mark, which sadly I can't make out.
Smaller versions are worn as collar badges in the same design.
New Zealand Physical Training Corps
The New Zealand Physical Training Corps formed initially during WW1 as the NZ Physical Training Staff. This would last until June 1987, when it finally became a Corps.
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- Opposite & Above: A WW1 era Cap and Collars to the New Zealand Physical Training Staff. All three badges are in gilt brass, though one of my Collars is tarnished/toned to front. Note the slight variation in die between the two Collars, with a void area below the crown. All have thin Copper wire lugs to back, and not maker marked. Cap size is 46mm by 58mm, Collar size is 33mm by 40mm.
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- Above: A embroidered thread and khaki wool trade sleeve badge of crossed swords worn by Physical Training Staff (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: British patterns of Physical Training Corps Badge, worn by the corps prior to 1995.
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In 1995 a distinctive New Zealand badge was again re-introduced for wear.
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- Opposite & Above: A matt silver or frosted finished Cap and Collar set to the New Zealand Physical Training Corps. The Cap badge has 4 pins and clutches to back, while the collars have 3 threaded bolt and nut fasteners to back. Not maker marked. Cap size 35mm by 39mm, Collar size is 24mm by 25mm.
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- Above: Two types of Physical Training Corps Sleeve Trade badges in Brass. Worn by both the Kiwi's and British Corps. Top is a Cast brass example with three looped lugs to back. Bottom is a die stamped brass type, with two copper looped lugs to back.
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- Above: A silver finished, metal Cap badge to the New Zealand Physical Training Corps. It has 4 pins and clutches to back, and is not maker marked.
Cap size 35mm by 39mm. |
- Above: Modern shoulder titles to the New Zealand Army Physical Training Corps. Note the raised edge to all, but just differing sizes.
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- Above Left: A 19mm, silver tone, anodised aluminium fixed shank button to the Royal NZ Physical Training Corps. Maker marked to back to "LONDON BADGE & BUTTON".
- Above Middle: A 17mm, silver tone, anodised aluminium fixed shank button to the Royal NZ Physical Training Corps. Maker marked to back to "LONDON BADGE & BUTTON". - Above Right: A 14mm, silver tone, anodised aluminium fixed shank button to the Royal NZ Physical Training Corps. Maker marked to back to "GAUNT LONDON". |
New Zealand Defence Security Guards.
The following are badges worn by civilian personnel deployed for security after WW2, around certain New Zealand Defence buildings.
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- Opposite and Above: Two examples of the Tudor Crown which was approved for wear in 1949. Red enamel on gilt brass. The left has a slider attachment, with the maker mark of "MAYER & KEAN WELLINGTON" stamped to the slider. Size 31mm by 30mm. Above is slightly smaller, and looks to have had a slider at one stage to back, but now replaced with two wire lugs. Size 28mm by 28mm.
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- Above: In 1954 the St Edwards crown was adopted. Above is a gilt brass and red enamel Cap badge. Two looped lugs to back, in a East/West configuration. No maker mark and size 31mm by 35mm.
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- Above: A rare Collar badge with Queens crown, worn by NZ Defence Security Guards. Red Enamel, Gilt brass and Sterling Silver backing. Two copper looped lugs to back. Maker marked to "BOCK" and "STG. SIL". Size 31mm by 42mm. They don't appear to be opposing, so two of the same were worn.
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- Opposite, Above and Below Left: A 1950's or 60's Defence Security Hat, with Queens Crown gilt brass and enamel Cap badge. Appears to be black in colour, with vinyl chinstrap. Maker marked inside to "KAIAPOI" and size 7 1/2.
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- Above: A cloth and embroidered thread shoulder patch to the New Zealand Defence Security Guards.
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Corps of Commissionaires
The Corps of Commissionaires was a global movement in Commonwealth countries which established societies or organisations who's role was to created and provide meaningful employment for veterans of the armed services.
It traces its origins to 1859, when Captain Sir Edward Walter KCB organised seven disabled veterans of the Crimean War and Indian Mutiny to act as nightwatchmen.
Countries like Canada and the United Kingdom still have these organisations working as private security firms today.
Motto: Virtute Et Industria (Virtue and industry).
- Opposite: A New Zealand, Kings crowned badge to the Corps of Commissionaires. Heavy, chromed metal, with two thread posts and nuts to back. No maker mark.
It traces its origins to 1859, when Captain Sir Edward Walter KCB organised seven disabled veterans of the Crimean War and Indian Mutiny to act as nightwatchmen.
Countries like Canada and the United Kingdom still have these organisations working as private security firms today.
Motto: Virtute Et Industria (Virtue and industry).
- Opposite: A New Zealand, Kings crowned badge to the Corps of Commissionaires. Heavy, chromed metal, with two thread posts and nuts to back. No maker mark.
New Zealand Officers Training Corps
- Above: A darkened bronze Cap badge to the Otago University Medical Company (OTC). Two copper looped lugs to back in a North/South configuration. No maker mark.
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- Above: A darkened brass Cap badge to the Otago University Medical Company (OTC). Two small copper looped wire lugs to back in a East/West configuration. No maker mark.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the Otago University Medical Company (OTC). Two copper looped lugs to back in a North/South configuration. No maker mark.
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Throughout New Zealand Defence Force history, New Zealand Universities have provided places to recruit, train and promote training for Officers and Enlistedmen. Over the years a number of Universities have had their own Officer Training Corps' (OTC's). Shoulder titles exist for Canterbury University OTC, Victoria Collage (Now Victoria University - Wellington) and opposite, Otago University OTC (Dunedin).
Formed in 1915 to supply Medical and Dental Officers during WW1. It was absorbed into the New Zealand Medical Corps in October 1927.
- Opposite: A cast brass shoulder title to the Otago University Officer Training Corps (O.T.C). No maker mark, and with two copper looped lugs to back.
Formed in 1915 to supply Medical and Dental Officers during WW1. It was absorbed into the New Zealand Medical Corps in October 1927.
- Opposite: A cast brass shoulder title to the Otago University Officer Training Corps (O.T.C). No maker mark, and with two copper looped lugs to back.
Opposite are a section of University medical Company shoulder titles.
- Top: A yellow thread on light blue shoulder title to the Otago University Medical Company, based in Dunedin.
- Center: A unknown shoulder title to a University Medical unit. Gold embroidered thread on a maroon background.
- Bottom: A cloth shoulder title to Auckland University Medical Company. Yellow threads on a purple background.
- Top: A yellow thread on light blue shoulder title to the Otago University Medical Company, based in Dunedin.
- Center: A unknown shoulder title to a University Medical unit. Gold embroidered thread on a maroon background.
- Bottom: A cloth shoulder title to Auckland University Medical Company. Yellow threads on a purple background.
Sergeant-Major of the Army/Regimental Sergeant Major
In the 1990's there was a move to create a universal Cap and Collar badge for the New Zealand Army. This would replace all the regimental and corps badges.
The move was unpopular and eventually abandoned.
The badge opposite was instead adopted by the Sergeant-Major of the Army, and Regimental Sergeant Majors.
Motto: Ngāti Tumatauenga (Tribe of the God of War).
- Opposite: Initially the badge was produced with a straight scroll. Shown here is a Cap badge, in copper coloured metal. No maker mark to back, and with two screw posts to back in a North/South config. Collars were also produced and have the same straight scroll, but I have yet to obtain. Size 35mm by 46mm.
The move was unpopular and eventually abandoned.
The badge opposite was instead adopted by the Sergeant-Major of the Army, and Regimental Sergeant Majors.
Motto: Ngāti Tumatauenga (Tribe of the God of War).
- Opposite: Initially the badge was produced with a straight scroll. Shown here is a Cap badge, in copper coloured metal. No maker mark to back, and with two screw posts to back in a North/South config. Collars were also produced and have the same straight scroll, but I have yet to obtain. Size 35mm by 46mm.
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- Opposite & Above: Eventually the curved scroll version was adopted. My Cap comes again with two screw posts in a North/South config, while the collars have a pin and clutch assembly to back. None are maker marked. Cap size 36mm by 48mm, Collar size 26mm by 30mm.
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Public Relations Officer
Like any modern day organisation, the New Zealand Army also needs to deal with the Public and media. I know little about the unit, but when collecting I have come across these two titles.
- Top: A Public Relations Officers title, with printed Indian yellow letters on a Rifle Green background.
Bottom: A Public Relations Officers title, but reverse colours, with Rifle Green embroidered letters on a Indian yellow background.
- Top: A Public Relations Officers title, with printed Indian yellow letters on a Rifle Green background.
Bottom: A Public Relations Officers title, but reverse colours, with Rifle Green embroidered letters on a Indian yellow background.
Young Men's Christian Association (Y.M.C.A)
The Young Men's Christian Association or Y.M.C.A. played a major role in WW1 (and WW2) for New Zealand Soldiers, both near the fronts in France, Belgium and around the camps in the Middle East, but also while the men trained in New Zealand or convalesced in the UK .
The Y.M.C.A "Huts" were run by Field Secretaries, who were basically lay preachers of various non-denominational faiths not represented by the official Chaplains, Baptists, and the likes. They worked in the huts in the NZ Camps, accompanied the troops on the troopships and then in the huts in the UK camps and also served in the field in France and in the Middle East.
They would dole out tea and biscuits at the front, provide a place to sit, write (even the stationary to do so) in France and Belgium, to the point where several were wounded. They were granted permission to wear a uniform, and then in around late 1916 the hierarchy of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force decided to attest them into the New Zealand Army, purely from a logistical point of view, so that they had control over them and their movements.
Approximately a force of some 45 Field Secretaries served overseas during WW1.
The Y.M.C.A "Huts" were run by Field Secretaries, who were basically lay preachers of various non-denominational faiths not represented by the official Chaplains, Baptists, and the likes. They worked in the huts in the NZ Camps, accompanied the troops on the troopships and then in the huts in the UK camps and also served in the field in France and in the Middle East.
They would dole out tea and biscuits at the front, provide a place to sit, write (even the stationary to do so) in France and Belgium, to the point where several were wounded. They were granted permission to wear a uniform, and then in around late 1916 the hierarchy of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force decided to attest them into the New Zealand Army, purely from a logistical point of view, so that they had control over them and their movements.
Approximately a force of some 45 Field Secretaries served overseas during WW1.
- Above: A image taken from the NZ YMCA produced “The Triangle Trail”, what is now an extremely rare monthly magazine from 1918/19. The image states that it is of the "New Zealand Secretaries at Midmay, Oct 14, 1917.". Sadly no head gear being worn, but note the Collar badges, which are the Triangle of the Y.M.C.A. (Matt Pomeroy Collection).
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- Above and opposite: Sadly a unknown and undated photograph of a New Zealand Y.M.C.A. Field Secretary in uniform with Lemon Squeezer, with a Dark Blue/White/Dark Blue Puggaree. Note the Cap badge and Collars, which appear to be a simple brass Triangles, with the word "Y.M.C.A" through the top (Matt Pomeroy Collection).
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An article appeared in the Evening Post on 15th of March 1918, page 8, indicating the "Approval" for the uniform of the New Zealand Y.M.C.A's Field Secretaries as follows:
"APPROVED FOR "Y.M." FIELD SECRETARIES.
The existing service dress regulations for field secretaries of the Y.M.C.A. serving with the New Zealand Expeditionary Force have been cancelled, and the following substituted:
- Hat (or cap): Field service dress with triangle badge of Y.M.C.A. worn on the puggaree. The puggaree to be dark blue with white center. Cap, service dress with badge of Y.M.C.A. worn in front.
- Jacket: Service dress open-breasted pattern as for officers with "New Zealand" on shoulder straps and with triangle badges of Y.M.C.A. on the lower lapels of the jacket.
- Trousers: Service dress.
- Great coat: Service dress khaki as for rank and file.
- Putties: Service dress.
- Waist belt:, Brown .leather "Sam. Brown" but without shoulder straps.
The above uniform will not be provided by the Defence Department, but caps, hats, jackets, trousers, great coat, and putties may be obtained from Ordnance Stores on pre-payment.
The effect of the new regulations is to give Y.M.C.A. field secretaries practically the same dress as that for officers of the N.Z.E.F., with, however special distinguishing Y.M.C.A. marks in order that they may not be mistaken for officers."
"APPROVED FOR "Y.M." FIELD SECRETARIES.
The existing service dress regulations for field secretaries of the Y.M.C.A. serving with the New Zealand Expeditionary Force have been cancelled, and the following substituted:
- Hat (or cap): Field service dress with triangle badge of Y.M.C.A. worn on the puggaree. The puggaree to be dark blue with white center. Cap, service dress with badge of Y.M.C.A. worn in front.
- Jacket: Service dress open-breasted pattern as for officers with "New Zealand" on shoulder straps and with triangle badges of Y.M.C.A. on the lower lapels of the jacket.
- Trousers: Service dress.
- Great coat: Service dress khaki as for rank and file.
- Putties: Service dress.
- Waist belt:, Brown .leather "Sam. Brown" but without shoulder straps.
The above uniform will not be provided by the Defence Department, but caps, hats, jackets, trousers, great coat, and putties may be obtained from Ordnance Stores on pre-payment.
The effect of the new regulations is to give Y.M.C.A. field secretaries practically the same dress as that for officers of the N.Z.E.F., with, however special distinguishing Y.M.C.A. marks in order that they may not be mistaken for officers."
- Above: This is a very rare image indeed. It comes from a Y.M.C.A album which is held by New Zealand National Army Museum. The album is WW1, but sadly the images contained within, are not dated. This above image shows two Field Secretaries (back row, 2nd and 3rd from the left) wearing their Dark Blue/White/Dark Blue Puggarees and the type 2 New Zealand Y.M.C.A. Cap and Collar badges (shown further below). Location is possibly Sling Camp in the UK, late 1918. (National Army Museum of New Zealand collection)
- Above: An image of a group of Y.M.C.A Field Secretaries, taken in the UK in July 1919. Note they are all wearing the type 2, New Zealand Y.M.C.A Collar badges, and though we can't quite see the Cap badge on the Lemon Squeezer held in the front row, it has the Dark Blue/White/Dark Blue Puggaree band to it (Matt Pomeroy collection).
- Above: A type 2, solid backed, bronze NZ YMCA Field Secretaries Cap badge with tangs or blades to back. Maker impressed to lower back to "J R GAUNT LONDON". The badge has been lacquered to front, which has turned yellow with age. Size 41.5mm by 44mm.
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- Above: A type 2 single piece, darkened copper and red painted Cap badge to the NZ YMCA. Copper looped wire lugs to back, though this is missing one. No maker mark. Collars also appear to have been made, and painted red to the triangle. Size 40mm by 44mm.
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- Above: A type 2 sand cast NZ YMCA Cap badge, probably made in the Middle East, which YMCA personnel were stationed during WW2. Two copper looped lugs cast into the back. Size 39mm by 42mm.
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- Above: A type 2 solid backed, bronze collar badge to the NZ YMCA. Right when worn, with two copper looped lugs. No maker mark. Size 29.5mm by 30.5mm.
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- Above: A darkened type 2, bronze NZ YMCA Collar badge. Left when worn. Impressed to lower back to "J R Gaunt London". Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back. Size 32mm by 29mm.
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- Above: A pair of hand-cut Shoulder titles in sheet brass to the YMCA. Two copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Size 15mm by 44mm.
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Note a Young & Co marked Cap and Collar badge set in type 2 have also been sighted, they have red enamel triangles to front, with blue enamel to the backing of the "Y.M.C.A". The set also came with a "NZ" over "Y.M.C.A" title.
- Above: A small Silver (hallmarked - Anchor & Lion for Birmingham and U for 1919) and enamel brooch to the New Zealand Y.M.C.A. Type 2 style badge to front, with the red triangle and "Y.M.C.A" on a black enamel background. Note the Blue to "NEW ZEALAND" to base. Maker marked to "W.J.D" to back. Size of badge 20mm by 18mm.
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- Above: A small brass and enamel button-hole badge to the Y.M.C.A. Some damage to the enamel to front, and sadly no maker mark to back. Size of badge 14mm by 15mm.
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- Above: A example of YMCA writing paper provide to troops. Here its to Arthur, who was writing home on the 10th of March 1917 from Featherston Military Camp in NZ to girlfriend Gris, who was in Christchurch.
- Opposite: A small waterproof material wallet given out or purchased at the NZ YMCA Huts in France. It has a date of 1918 impressed, and contained two small German paper note coins, both dated 1917. |
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- Above: A image and caption from the Wanganui Chronical, dated the 18th of March 1940 with the following:
"Y.M.C.A. field secretaries who are going overseas with the Second Echelon. From left, Messrs. J. Kennedy. G. Briggs, and I. Mclver. Mr. Kennedy has been in charge of the Y.M.C.A. Hut at the Central District Mobilisation Camp, Trentham, since the outbreak of war." Note the center image of Mr G Briggs shows a clear outline of a type 2 NZ Y.M.C.A Cap badge. According to references, during WW2 the Puggaree changed to Black/White/Black, but this isn't apparent on his Lemon Squeezer, which looks more Infantry in colours (Khaki/Red/Khaki). |
- Above: A image taken from the Evening Post, 10th of October, 1942 with caption:
"Mr. H. A. Tankersley, of Carterton, who has been awarded the M.B.E. He is one of the New Zealand secretaries serving with the Y.M.CA. in the Middle East, and ran the canteen in Tobruk almost unaided from the time the town was captured from Rommel until its recapture by the enemy. He is now in charge of the Western Desert service of the Y.M.CA." Though grainy, the image shows Mr Tankersley wearing a type 2 NZ Y.M.C.A badge. |
- Above: A type 3, darkened darkened brass Cap badge to the NZ YMCA. This pattern appears to just have been made by Mayer and Kean of Wellington only. I have yet to find a clear photo of it being worn. It has been described as a WW2 pattern, with the Kiwi to top, touching both tips of the Ferns on either side. Certainly it fits their WW2 manufacture, with two copper looped lugs and a maker mark of "M & K, W" for Mayer and Kean, Wellington.
Size 42mm by 45mm. |
- Above: Three type 3 Collar badges to the NZ YMCA in ether darkened or gilt finished brass. Note all Kiwi's are pointing in the same direction as the Cap Badge. I have yet to see an opposing Collar. All have copper wire loops to back and the maker mark of "M & K, W" for for Mayer and Kean, Wellington. Size 32mm by 30mm.
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