New Zealand Corps 2
Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps
The need for a separate New Zealand Ordnance organisation was identified as far back as 1907, but tentative steps were only taken in 1913 by training individuals at Territorial Camps with the required skills.
With the outbreak of WW1, these individuals were deployed within the 1st NZEF at Ordnance Depots, and later they became the founding members of the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps, which was established from March 1915.
At home, in New Zealand, a New Zealand Army Ordnance Department (consisting of Commissioned Officers) and the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps (consisting of Warrant Officers, NCO's and Men) existed from early 1917.
They wore different Cap and Collar badges from their overseas serving comrades.
With the outbreak of WW1, these individuals were deployed within the 1st NZEF at Ordnance Depots, and later they became the founding members of the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps, which was established from March 1915.
At home, in New Zealand, a New Zealand Army Ordnance Department (consisting of Commissioned Officers) and the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps (consisting of Warrant Officers, NCO's and Men) existed from early 1917.
They wore different Cap and Collar badges from their overseas serving comrades.
New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps Overseas Worn Badge.
- Above: A early New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps Cap and Collar badge set, worn oversea by members of the 1st NZEF from 1917. All three have a "NZ" brazed to top. No maker mark, but looks to be "Gaunt" manufacture This badge was based on the British version and was worn until members returned home from WW1. It was then briefly "reissued" in 1937 until the new pattern of badge arrived from the UK.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. All have the small plaque to back to "J R Gaunt, London" and copper looped lugs.
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- Above Left: A locally made Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps.
- Above Right: A Mayer and Keane, of Wellington (M & K,W) maker marked Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. |
- Above Left: A sand cast Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Cast integrated lugs to back.
- Above Right: A gilt brass, single piece Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. Only differing feature is the short copper looped lugs to back. This version always appears very worn. |
New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps Home Service Badge.
- Above: A scarce, 1917 pattern, New Zealand worn only, Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Department. Its maker mark to back to "C M Bay" and has two wire looped lugs to back.
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- Above: A similar Cap badge in copper to the New Zealand Army Ordnance Department. No maker, with two hex type copper lugs to back. This badge is thinly struck.
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- 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.
This 1917 patterned badge continued to be worn after WW1 and until 1937 within New Zealand. In that year, apparently all stocks of the Cap badge had been used, and permission was sort for the men to wear the overseas 1st NZEF version of the badge (top of page) until a new 1937 pattern of the badge was 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: 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 gold tone, fixed shank, 25mm anodised aluminium button to the R.N.Z.A.O.C. Brass backed, with the maker marked of "Firmin, London".
- Above Right: A gold tone, fixed shank 17mm anodised aluminium button to the R.N.Z.A.O.C. Brass backed, with the maker marked of "Firmin, London". |
- Above: A Queens Crown, other ranks Belt buckle to the Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. A separate Cap badge sized badge to center, made from gilt metal and resin. To back are two looped lugs, held to buckle plate by a pin and leather washers. No maker mark.
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- Above: Cloth shoulder title to the Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. The bottom is a a later style shoulder title with embroidered border.
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The R.N.Z.A.O.C. was absorbed into the Royal New Zealand Logistics Regiment on 9th December 1996.
NZ School of Musketry
During WW1, a specialised School of Musketry was set up to establish a standard in Rifle Expertise amongst the Reinforcements.
- Opposite: A Officers gilt brass Cap badge to the NZ School of Musketry. This is the void type of Cap badge, with a non-void variation also seen. Copper wire looped lugs to back.
- Above: A Officers gilt Collar badge pair to the NZ School of Musketry. Either wire looped lugs or flat brass hex type to back. |

- Opposite: A pair of Collar badges worn by ordinary ranks in the NZ School of Musketry. The Cap badge is just a larger version of these two badges.
All are single piece, gilt brass, with two copper wire looped lugs to back.
No maker mark.
All are single piece, gilt brass, with two copper wire looped lugs to back.
No maker mark.
New Zealand Maori Pioneer Battalion
On the 20th of Feb 1916, the New Zealand Maori Pioneer Battalion was formed and in April 1916 it left for France.
The Battalion was disbanded in New Zealand in April 1919.
There are 4 types or styles of badge the Battalion wore from 1916 to 1919.
The Battalion was disbanded in New Zealand in April 1919.
There are 4 types or styles of badge the Battalion wore from 1916 to 1919.
- Above: A scarce 1st type collar badge to the Battalion, which were made in New Zealand. They have the smaller "N.Z.N.C" or New Zealand Native Corps at the Base. Some badges have been found with the mark of "Watts, Auckland".
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- Above: A 2nd type of Cap or Collar badges (worn as either) to the New Zealand Native Corps in Bronze, with the larger N.Z.N.C. to base. They have distinct copper wire lugs to back, which appear to be the tops of the split or cotter pin used to hold a badge to a uniform/hat.
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- Above: A 2nd type of Cap or Collar badges (worn as either) to the New Zealand Native Corps in gilt brass, with the larger N.Z.N.C. to base. Three different types. Left is die stamped brass with both lugs gone, and a single wire loop soldered messily to back. Middle has a brooch fitting to back, and Right is sandcast, with two copper looped lugs.
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- Above: A cast bronze collar badge in the form of the 3rd type of badge to the New Zealand Pioneer Battalion, with necklace removed. Note this badge has two tangs or blades to its solid back. No maker mark.
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- Opposite and Above: The 3rd Type of Cap and Collar badge to the New Zealand Pioneer Battalion. Note this badge is widely faked, and taken from dies used by the British firm Firmin. The three have either copper looped lugs (to the Cap) or D shaped Copper lugs (to the collars). All have a maker plaque to "J R Gaunt London".
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- Opposite and Above: The 3rd Type of Cap and Collar badge to the New Zealand Pioneer Battalion again. Note the necklace has been removed. Maori tradition does not permit a Warrior to wear jewellery into battle, so they modified the badge in the field by removing the necklace just below the Warriors head. All three badges are made by "J R Gaunt London".
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- Above: A gilt brass Collar badge pair to the New Zealand Pioneer Battalion. Both have had their necklaces removed and are not maker marked. Both have two copper D shaped looped lugs to back. Possible Gaunt made.
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- Above: The 4th Type of Cap or Collar (worn as either) to the New Zealand Maori Pioneer Battalion in gilt brass. This was the last type, and worn home to NZ when the Battalion was disbanded in 1919. Note the base of the badge just has the large letters "N.Z." to base. All three have D shaped copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A early set of Shoulder titles to the New Zealand Native Corps (N.Z.N.C.). Both are gilt brass and are impressed to back to "J R Gaunt, London".
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- 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. |
Royal New Zealand Military Police
The New Zealand Military Police was first formed in 1915, but was disbanded at the conclusion of WW1. It then reformed again at the start of WW2, but was replaced by Provost Companies in 1946.
The New Zealand Provost Corps was then formed on the 18th of Feb 1949, with the Corps gaining the prefix "Royal" on the 18th of July 1952.
The New Zealand Provost Corps was then formed on the 18th of Feb 1949, with the Corps gaining the prefix "Royal" on the 18th of July 1952.
- Above: A single piece, gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Military Police. Not marked, but thin twisted copper wire lugs to back, which are found on a number of other WW1 New Zealand made badges.
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- Above: A matching pair of Collar badges to the New Zealand Military Police. These are the same design as the Cap badge, but with the lower banner removed or cut off. Both have two hex type brass flat lugs to back. No maker mark and likely WW1.
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- 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.

- 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 Top: A earlier puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the Royal New Zealand Provost Corps. Dark Blue/Dark Blue/Dark Blue. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "7 1/4".
- Above: A modern puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the Royal New Zealand Provost Corps. Note the wider Dark Blue/Dark Blue/Dark Blue cloth bands. Two holes through the front where a Cap badge was attached. Marked to inside in pen to "54" (in centimeters) . |
- Above: A 25mm, anodised aluminium or stybright button to the Royal New Zealand Provost Corps. Brass backed, with fited 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.
- Opposite: Early Land Service titles in light blue embroidered letters on a brown background, with a lighter brown border.
New Zealand Women's Royal Army Corps
The New Zealand Women's Auxiliary Army Corps formed in July 1942, and became a Corps of the regular New Zealand Army in 1947.
- Above: A gilt brass cap badge to the New Zealand Women's Auxiliary Army Corps (W.A.A.C). Maker marked to lower back, left to "M & K, W" or Mayer & Kean, Wellington. No collars appear to be issued with this badge.
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- Above: In 1952, the Corps was awarded the prefix "Royal" to their title, and at some stage the commissioned badge from Stokes & Sons of Melbourne. This is the two piece, other ranks Cap badge to the New Zealand Women's Royal Army Corps. Maker marked to "Stokes Melb" to back.
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- Above: A rare Officers gilt fired brass, Silver and enamel Cap badge to the New Zealand Women's Royal Army Corps. It is maker marked to "Stokes Melb" to back.
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- Above: A rare Officers opposing gilt fired brass, Silver and enamel Collar set to the New Zealand Women's Royal Army Corps. Both are not maker marked, and have lugs in a North/South config, with the loops twisted so that the openings are to the side. A feature more common on a Australian Army Cap/Collar.
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- Above: A anodised aluminium staybrite Cap badge, note only 2 tone, with the green missing from central wreath. Separate Tui is again attached to center. No maker mark and pins and clutches to back.
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- Above: A pair of opposing anodised aluminium staybrite Collar badges to the New Zealand Women's Royal Army Corps. They are both single piece, three tone, with pins and clutches to back. Both are maker marked to "J R Gaunt London".
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- Above: A anodised aluminium staybrite Cap and Collar badge to the New Zealand Women's Royal Army Corps. Both are three tone, with the Collar a single piece, and Cap 2 piece, with separate Tui applied to center.
Both have looped lugs to back, and the collar is maker marked to "J R Gaunt London. |
- Above: A gilt tone, anodised aluminium 26mm button to the New Zealand Women's Royal Army Corps. Queens crown, it is maker marked to "Gaunt, London" to back, with fixed shank.
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- Opposite Top: A early cloth shoulder title to the New Zealand Womens Royal Army Corps. Tartan Green letters on a Beech Brown felt background.
- Opposite Middle and Bottom: Two cloth shoulder title to the New Zealand Womens Royal Army Corps. Just slight variation in lettering size between them, with white letters on a Tartan green/black felt background.
In July 1977, the corps was disbanded and all personnel were transferred to other parts of the New Zealand Defense Force.
- Opposite Middle and Bottom: Two cloth shoulder title to the New Zealand Womens Royal Army Corps. Just slight variation in lettering size between them, with white letters on a Tartan green/black felt background.
In July 1977, the corps was disbanded and all personnel were transferred to other parts of the New Zealand Defense Force.
Services Vegetable Production

The New Zealand Government recognised by early 1942 that vegetables would have to be grown on a massive scale if the American and New Zealand troops serving in the Pacific war were to be properly fed.
When the government's Services' Vegetable Production Scheme came into force in July 1942, growers undertook to produce huge quantities of vegetables, with State farms also being established to meet any shortfall.
The scheme was shut down in 1945 as hostilities ceased.
- Opposite: A gilt brass badge to the Services Vegetable Production (SVP). This badge is brooched to back, but the one or two other examples I have seen of this badge, also have copper looped lugs, in a North/South config, which begs the question whether they came in two types, brooched or lugged.
Maker marked to back to "M & K, W" or Mayer and Kean, Wellington.
When the government's Services' Vegetable Production Scheme came into force in July 1942, growers undertook to produce huge quantities of vegetables, with State farms also being established to meet any shortfall.
The scheme was shut down in 1945 as hostilities ceased.
- Opposite: A gilt brass badge to the Services Vegetable Production (SVP). This badge is brooched to back, but the one or two other examples I have seen of this badge, also have copper looped lugs, in a North/South config, which begs the question whether they came in two types, brooched or lugged.
Maker marked to back to "M & K, W" or Mayer and Kean, Wellington.
Royal New Zealand Corps of Signals
The New Zealand Corps of Signals form in 1912 from companies withing the New Zealand Engineers. It amalgamated with the New Zealand Post and Telegraph Corps on the 1st of June 1921.
- 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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- Above: A study in size of the New Zealand Corps of Signals Badges. Left is the oversized, pre-WW1 Cap badge roughly 51mm by 42mm. Center is a standard Cap badge roughly 41mm by 32mm. Right is a standard Collar badge roughly 31mm by 25mm.
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- Above: A unmarked gilt brass Collar badge set to the New Zealand Corps of Signals. D shaped copper looped lugs to back, so likely a unmarked Gaunt made pair.
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- Above Left: Prior and early in WW1 the NZ Corps of Signals wore the British "Signal Service" Shoulder title. Opposite are two examples of such a title.
- Above Right: A pair of gilt brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Corps of Signals (N.Z.C.S). They have hex type lugs to back and are not maker marked. |
Around WW2, New Zealand adopted the British pattern of Signals Corps Cap and Collar badge.
- Above: A scarce gilt fired, solid backed and silver center (not marked) Cap and Collar badge to the New Zealand Corps of Signals. Copper looped lugs to back, no maker mark. |
In 1947, the Corps was awarded the prefix "Royal", and this meant a change in title and badge. Again, the UK pattern of badge was adopted by the Corps.
- Above: A selection of Cap badges to the Royal New Zealand Signal Corps.
- Left: A well polished bronze and silver Cap badge with kings Crown, which has a hex lug to back. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt London". - Middle: A gilt fired brass and silver (marked "S" to back) Cap badge with lugs to badge and tangs to the back of the Kings Crown. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London". - Right: A unmarked Cap badge in brass and white metal, both pieces have lugs to back. |
Post 1952, the crown was updated on the Cap badge to reflect the change in monarch. One thing to note with these badges, is that they are exactly like the UK pattern except for the addition of the lower scroll. On some of the early Gaunt versions, the lower scroll has been separately added, to what would have been a British Royal Signals Badge.
- Above: A gilt fired brass and silver Cap and collar badge set to the Royal New Zealand Signal Corps. All are marked "S" for Silver to back, and all have the maker mark of "J R Gaunt, London". |
- Above: A set of anodised aluminium staybrite Cap badge and collars to the Royal New Zealand Corps of Signals. No maker mark to back and come either with lugs or pins. Not a great badge in terms of wear or to collect as they are rather fragile and break either on the pins to back or on the leg in the center.
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- Above: A Officers bullion and cloth Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Corps of Signals.
No maker mark to back. |
- 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 puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the Royal New Zealand Signal Corps. This is the 3rd type.
1st type: - Pre - 1920 - Khaki/Light Blue/Khaki.
2nd type: - 1935 - Khaki/Half White - Half Light Blue/Khaki.
3rd Type: - Light Blue/Dark Blue/Light Blue.
Slightly fade in colour. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "7". Note the puggaree has been folded side-on.
1st type: - Pre - 1920 - Khaki/Light Blue/Khaki.
2nd type: - 1935 - Khaki/Half White - Half Light Blue/Khaki.
3rd Type: - Light Blue/Dark Blue/Light Blue.
Slightly fade in colour. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "7". Note the puggaree has been folded side-on.
New Zealand Post & Telegraph Corps
The New Zealand Post & Telegraph Corps was formed on the 7th of October 1911 as part of the New Zealand Engineers.
They amalgamated in June 1921 and became part of the New Zealand Corps of Signals, and their badges were ceased to be worn.
They amalgamated in June 1921 and became part of the New Zealand Corps of Signals, and their badges were ceased to be worn.
- 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".
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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. |
- 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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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.
- Above: A matching pair of New Zealand Army Pay Corps (NZAPC) shoulder titles in thick gilt brass, with the maker mark of "J R Gaunt London" impressed to back.
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- Above: A near matching pair of New Zealand Army Pay Corps (NZAPC) shoulder titles in thin, die stamped gilt brass with no maker mark, and thin Reinforcement like hex brass lugs to back.
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In 1930 the corps was disbanded and it is thought that it existed on paper only.
Its function would have been dispersed within the regiments and formations of the New Zealand Army at the time.
During WW2, the Corps was again reactivated and personnel assigned, but it was reduced in strength and disbanded again after WW2.
Corbett indicates that in 1969, the corps was re-activated and the kings crown badge continued to be worn.
Its function would have been dispersed within the regiments and formations of the New Zealand Army at the time.
During WW2, the Corps was again reactivated and personnel assigned, but it was reduced in strength and disbanded again after WW2.
Corbett indicates that in 1969, the corps was re-activated and the kings crown badge continued to be worn.
- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Pay Corps. No maker mark to back, and with two copper wire looped lugs.
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- Above Top: A matching pair of gilt brass Collar badges to the New Zealand Army Pay Corps. Both have two D shaped copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Note the Lions to top of badge are opposing.
- Above Bottom: A gilt brass Collar badge to the New Zealand Army Pay Corps. It has two D shaped copper looped lugs to back, and with the maker plaque of "J R Gaunt London". |
In October 1978, approval was given to update the Corps badge with St Edwards Crown.
- Above: A selection 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. Note the last (bottom right) is a more modern version, with the embroidered border/edge.

- Above: A puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the New Zealand Army Pay Corps. Khaki/Yellow/Khaki. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "6 7/8". It is thought that these were first issued during WW2.
The corps was finally disbanded on the 31st of July 1993.
New Zealand Permanent Staff
The New Zealand Permanent Staff was form in 1911, along with the New Zealand Army. Initially they took their badges from the British Staff Corps, with the Lion over the Crown as being their badge.
- Above: A Staff Corps Cap Badge still on part of a J R Gaunt or London Sample board. In bronze, with tangs to back in a North/South Config. Gaunts code of "F2607" is hand written to lower right corner on the cardboard.
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- Above: Another variation of a Officers Staff Cap badge. A number of British regiments also wore this badge, and there are just variation on the tail and how many support it has. Two tangs to back, but no maker mark.
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As WW1 progressed, New Zealand Staff Officers did personalise their uniforms with the additions of Fern Leaf Collars.
- Above: A darkened copper pair of Collar badges to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back on each. No maker mark.
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- Above: A gilt brass pair of Collar badges to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. In 1937, with the coronation of George VI, the NZ Army Coronation Contingent wore these same shaped Collars with a special Cap badge to the Kings Coronation ceremony. Two copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above Left: A coppery gilt Collar badge to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. D shaped copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
- Above Right: A darkened brass Collar badge to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Wider, it has thin copper wire lugs to back. No maker mark. |
- Above Left: A wide, solid backed gilt brass Collar badge to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Two thick copper wire loops to back. No maker mark.
- Above Right: A sand cast Collar badge in brass to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Solid to back, with two short copper looped lugs cast into the back of the badge. No maker mark. |

- Opposite: With the Corps also deployed in the middle east during WW1, these sand cast brass badges also appeared and have been associated with the New Zealand Permanent Staff Corps.
In 1921, approval was given to the New Zealand Permanent Staff to have their own distinctive Cap badge and Collars.
- Above: A Bronze Cap Badge and selection of collar badge in either |
(Continued)
darkened Brass or Bronze. Some are maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London", while others have "Dowler Birmingham" impressed to back. -Above: A pair of small Mess Dress shoulder titles to the New Zealand Permanent Staff Corps. Only 10mm high, but have no maker mark to back. |

The Kings Crown New Zealand Permanent Staff Cap Badge and Collars are still worn today.
- Opposite A modern darkened copper Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. The Cap badge has two screw posts and nuts to back, while the collars have pins and clutches. None are maker marked.
- Opposite A modern darkened copper Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. The Cap badge has two screw posts and nuts to back, while the collars have pins and clutches. None are maker marked.
- Above Left: A 24mm Gilt brass button to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Maker marked to back to "Buttons Ltd, Birmingham".
(Made in the same size by "Smith & Wright Ltd, Birmingham" with fixed shank). - Above Center: A 20mm Gilt brass button to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Maker marked to back to "Buttons Limited, Birmingham". - Above Right: A 16mm Gilt brass button to the New Zealand Permanent Staff. Maker marked to back to "Buttons Ltd, B'ham". |
- Above: A 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
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.
The Corps was formed in 1907, and at was not only responsible for selecting the Horses which were to accompany the NZ Soldiers overseas, but also the health and well-being once the animals arrived in the Middle East.
Three Veterinarians were initially sent with the Main Body, which left NZ in October 1914.
Subsequently two "Mobile Veterinarian Section"s of 28 men were formed in NZ, and then sent onto Egypt, to assist. One for the New Zealand Mounted Rifles, and one for the New Zealand Infantry.
After the withdrawal from Gallipoli and the formation of the New Zealand and ANZAC Divisions in April 1916. these two New Zealand Mobile Veterinarian Section were initially disbanded and then reformed into larger units, with one based in the Milddle East, while the other seeing action in France and the Western Front.

- Opposite: From the outset of the formation of the Corps, the Officers wore a intertwining N.Z.V.C in a wreath, below a crown.
These initial badges were Silver letters, over-layed on the bronze frame.
I do not have one as they are extremely rare, but the opposite come close.
A darkened Bronze Officers Cap Badge to New Zealand Veterinarian Corps, but with Laurel Boarder. Two blades or tangs to back (though one is missing), with maker plaque for "FIRMIN, LONDON" to back of crown.
Considered a mistake as the badge should have a Fern border.
These initial badges were Silver letters, over-layed on the bronze frame.
I do not have one as they are extremely rare, but the opposite come close.
A darkened Bronze Officers Cap Badge to New Zealand Veterinarian Corps, but with Laurel Boarder. Two blades or tangs to back (though one is missing), with maker plaque for "FIRMIN, LONDON" to back of crown.
Considered a mistake as the badge should have a Fern border.
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.
- 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. |
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.
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.
- 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.
- Apove: WW1 era Cap and collars to the New Zealand Physical Training Staff. Subsequent badges worn were the same as the British Army Physical Training Corps. All three badges are in gilt brass, though one of my collars is tarnished/toned. Note the slight variation in die between the Cap and left collar (when pictured) and the right collar, which has a voided area below the crown. Copper wire lugs to back, and not maker marked.
- Opposite: A embroidered thread and khaki wool trade sleeve badge of crossed swords worn by Physical Training Staff (Ian Hamilton Collection). |
- Above: British patterns of Physical Training Corps Badge, worn by the corps prior to 1995.
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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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In 1995 a distinctive New Zealand badge was again re-introduced for wear.
- Above Top and 2nd Row: A matt silver finished Cap and collar set to the New Zealand Physical Training Corps. The Cap badge has 4 pins and clutches to back (not shown) while the collars have 3 threaded bolt and nut fasteners to back. Not maker marked. - Above Bottom Row: A silver finished, metal Cap badge to the New Zealand Physical Training Corps. It has 4 pins and clutches to back (not shown), and is not maker marked. - Opposite: Cloth shoulder titles (post 1987) to the New Zealand Army Physical Training Corps. Red on Black background. |
New Zealand Defence Security Guards.
Above Top Row: A gilt brass and enamel Cap (pre 1952) and collar badge to the New Zealand Defence Security Guards. The Cap badge on the left, has a slider to back which is maker marked to "Mayer & Kean, Wellington". The Collar has 2 replaced looped lugs, but could have had something to center.
Above Bottom Row: A gilt brass and enamel Cap badge Crown (post 1952) and Collar badge to the New Zealand Defence Security Guards. The Cap is made from gilt brass and enamel, while the collar is Gilt brass and enamel to center, and Silver to back. No maker mark to Cap, but the collar has "Bock" and "St Sil" to back. Two copper looped lugs to back to both. |
Above: A cloth and embroidered thread shoulder patch to the New Zealand Defence Security Guards.
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After WW2, Civilian personnel were approved to provide security for certain New Zealand Defence buildings. The first badge (a Tudor Kings crown - see above) was approved for wear in 1949. This was then updated, with the change in monarch in 1952.
Corps of Commissionaires

The Corps of Commissionaires was a global movement in Commonwealth countries which established societies or organisations who's role was to created and provide meaningful employment for veterans of the armed services.
It traces its origins to 1859, when Captain Sir Edward Walter KCB organised seven disabled veterans of the Crimean War and Indian Mutiny to act as nightwatchmen.
Countries like Canada and the United Kingdom still have these organisations working as private security firms today.
- Opposite: A New Zealand, Kings crowned badge to the Corps of Commissionaires. Heavy, chromed metal, with two thread posts and nuts to back. No maker mark.
It traces its origins to 1859, when Captain Sir Edward Walter KCB organised seven disabled veterans of the Crimean War and Indian Mutiny to act as nightwatchmen.
Countries like Canada and the United Kingdom still have these organisations working as private security firms today.
- Opposite: A New Zealand, Kings crowned badge to the Corps of Commissionaires. Heavy, chromed metal, with two thread posts and nuts to back. No maker mark.
New Zealand Officers Training Corps
- 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.
Opposite Top: Initially the badge was produced with a straight scroll. Shown is a Cap badge, in copper coloured metal. No maker mark to back, and with two screw posts to back in a North/South config. Collars were also produced and have the same straight scroll, but I have yet to obtain.
Opposite Bottom: Eventually the curved scroll version was adopted. My Cap comes again with two screw posts in a North/South config, while the collars have a pin and clutch assembly to back. None are maker marked.
The move was unpopular and eventually abandoned.
The badge opposite was instead adopted by the Sergeant-Major of the Army, and Regimental Sergeant Majors.
Opposite Top: Initially the badge was produced with a straight scroll. Shown is a Cap badge, in copper coloured metal. No maker mark to back, and with two screw posts to back in a North/South config. Collars were also produced and have the same straight scroll, but I have yet to obtain.
Opposite Bottom: Eventually the curved scroll version was adopted. My Cap comes again with two screw posts in a North/South config, while the collars have a pin and clutch assembly to back. None are maker marked.
Public Relations Officer

Like any modern day organisation, the New Zealand Army also needs to deal with the Public and media. I know little about the unit, but when collecting I have come across these two titles.
- Top: A Public Relations Officers title, with printed Indian yellow letters on a Rifle Green background.
Bottom: A Public Relations Officers title, but reverse colours, with Rifle Green embroidered letters on a Indian yellow background.
- Top: A Public Relations Officers title, with printed Indian yellow letters on a Rifle Green background.
Bottom: A Public Relations Officers title, but reverse colours, with Rifle Green embroidered letters on a Indian yellow background.
Young Men's Christian Association (Y.M.C.A)
The Young Men's Christian Association or Y.M.C.A. played a major role in WW1 (and WW2) for New Zealand Soldiers, both near the fronts in France, Belgium and around the camps in the Middle East, but also while the men trained in New Zealand. They offered comforts like a place to read, write (and provided writing material), meet or have a cuppa.
- Above Left: A WW1 Bronze NZ YMCA Officers Cap badge with tangs or blades to back. Maker impressed to lower back to "J R Gaunt London".
- Above Right: A WW1 sand cast NZ YMCA Cap badge, probably made in the Middle East, which YMCA personnel were stationed. Two copper looped lugs cast into the back. |
- Above: A WW1 single piece, darkened copper and red painted Cap badge to the NZ YMCA. Looped lugs to back, though this is missing one. No maker mark. Collars also appear to have been made, and painted red to the triangle.
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- Above Left: A WW1 solid backed, bronze collar badge to the NZ YMCA. Left when worn, with two copper looped lugs. No maker mark.
- Above Right: A darkened WW1 bronze NZ YMCA Officers badge. Note the kiwi's to the top are opposing. Impressed to lower back to "J R Gaunt London". Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back. |
- Above: A pair of hand-cut Shoulder titles in sheet brass to the YMCA. Two copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
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- Above: A small Silver (hallmarked) and enamel brooch to the New Zealand Y.M.C.A. WW1 style badge to front, with the red triangle to center and "Y.M.C.A" on a black enamel background. Maker marked to "W.J.D" to back.
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- Above: A 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.
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- Above: A example of YMCA writing paper provide to troops. Here its to Arthur, who was writing home on the 10th of March 1917 from Featherston Military Camp in NZ to girlfriend Gris, who was in Christchurch.
- Opposite: A small waterproof material wallet given out or purchased at the NZ YMCA in France. It has a date of 1918 impressed, and contained two small German paper note coins, both dated 1917. |
- Above: A darkened brass Cap badge to the NZ YMCA. This is the WW2 pattern, with the Kiwi to top, touching both tips of the Ferns on either side.
To back is the maker mark of "M & K, W" for Mayer and Kean, Wellington. It has two copper looped lugs to back. |
- Above: Three Collar badges to the WW2 NZ YMCA in ether darkened or gilt finish. Note all Kiwi's are pointing in the same direction as the Cap Badge. I have yet to see a opposing Collar. All have copper wire loops to back and the maker mark of "M & K, W" for for Mayer and Kean, Wellington.
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