New Zealand Infantry and Mounted Rifle Badges
Just prior to the beginning of WW1, New Zealand had an established, regular Army, which had come into force in 1911 as part of the 1909 Defence Act.
For administration purposes, New Zealand had been divided into four Army Area's, with 4 Infantry and 3 Mounted Rifle Regiments assigned to each "Area".
The area's were as follows:
A - Auckland Area - covering from the middle to the top of the North Island of NZ.
Infantry Regiments consisted of:
- 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment
- 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment
- 15th (North Auckland) Infantry Regiment
- 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment
Mounted Rifle Regiments were:
- 3rd (Auckland) Mounted Rifles
-4th (Waikato) Mounted Rifles
-11th (North Auckland) Mounted Rifles
B - Wellington Area - covering from the middle to lower half of the North Island of NZ.
Infantry Regiments consisted of:
- 5th (Wellington Rifles) Infantry Regiment
- 7th (Wellington West Coast) Infantry Regiment
- 9th (Hawke’s Bay) Infantry Regiment
- 11th (Taranaki) Infantry Regiment
Mounted Rifle Regiments were:
- 2nd (Wellington West Coast) Mounted Rifles
- 6th (Manawatu) Mounted Rifles
- 9th (Wellington East Coast) Mounted Rifles
C - Canterbury Area - covering from the middle to the top half of the South Island of NZ.
Infantry Regiments consisted of:
- 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment
- 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment
- 12th (Nelson) Regiment - became the 12th (Nelson & Marlborough) from 1917
- 13th (North Canterbury & Westland) Regiment
Mounted Rifle Regiments were:
- 1st (Canterbury Yeomanry Cavalry) Mounted Rifles
- 8th (South Canterbury) Mounted Rifles
- 10th (Nelson) Mounted Rifles
D - Otago Area - covering from the middle to the lower half of the South Island and including Stewart Island.
Infantry Regiments consisted of:
- 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment
- 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment
- 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment
- 14th (South) Otago Infantry Regiment
Mounted Rifle Regiments were:
- 5th (Otago Hussars) Mounted Rifles
- 7th (Southland) Mounted Riflesknown as
- 12th (Otago) Mounted Rifles
(The last three Otago Mounted Rifles left with the "Main Body" of men, known as the New Zealand Expeditionary Force (N.Z.E.F) in Oct 1914, and fought (as all Mounted Rifle units did) as dismounted Infantry at Gallipoli. With the Reorganisation and formation of the ANZAC and NZ Divisions after the withdrawal from Gallipoli in April 1916, the three units of Otago Mounted Rifle were not required to serve in the Middle East. Instead their members and reinforcements fought as dismounted Infantry or joined other units in France and on the Western Front.
This section of the website will look at the huge variation of Cap and Collar badges worn by the 17 New Zealand Infantry and 12 Mounted Rifle Regiments from 1911 until now.
For administration purposes, New Zealand had been divided into four Army Area's, with 4 Infantry and 3 Mounted Rifle Regiments assigned to each "Area".
The area's were as follows:
A - Auckland Area - covering from the middle to the top of the North Island of NZ.
Infantry Regiments consisted of:
- 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment
- 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment
- 15th (North Auckland) Infantry Regiment
- 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment
Mounted Rifle Regiments were:
- 3rd (Auckland) Mounted Rifles
-4th (Waikato) Mounted Rifles
-11th (North Auckland) Mounted Rifles
B - Wellington Area - covering from the middle to lower half of the North Island of NZ.
Infantry Regiments consisted of:
- 5th (Wellington Rifles) Infantry Regiment
- 7th (Wellington West Coast) Infantry Regiment
- 9th (Hawke’s Bay) Infantry Regiment
- 11th (Taranaki) Infantry Regiment
Mounted Rifle Regiments were:
- 2nd (Wellington West Coast) Mounted Rifles
- 6th (Manawatu) Mounted Rifles
- 9th (Wellington East Coast) Mounted Rifles
C - Canterbury Area - covering from the middle to the top half of the South Island of NZ.
Infantry Regiments consisted of:
- 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment
- 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment
- 12th (Nelson) Regiment - became the 12th (Nelson & Marlborough) from 1917
- 13th (North Canterbury & Westland) Regiment
Mounted Rifle Regiments were:
- 1st (Canterbury Yeomanry Cavalry) Mounted Rifles
- 8th (South Canterbury) Mounted Rifles
- 10th (Nelson) Mounted Rifles
D - Otago Area - covering from the middle to the lower half of the South Island and including Stewart Island.
Infantry Regiments consisted of:
- 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment
- 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment
- 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment
- 14th (South) Otago Infantry Regiment
Mounted Rifle Regiments were:
- 5th (Otago Hussars) Mounted Rifles
- 7th (Southland) Mounted Riflesknown as
- 12th (Otago) Mounted Rifles
(The last three Otago Mounted Rifles left with the "Main Body" of men, known as the New Zealand Expeditionary Force (N.Z.E.F) in Oct 1914, and fought (as all Mounted Rifle units did) as dismounted Infantry at Gallipoli. With the Reorganisation and formation of the ANZAC and NZ Divisions after the withdrawal from Gallipoli in April 1916, the three units of Otago Mounted Rifle were not required to serve in the Middle East. Instead their members and reinforcements fought as dismounted Infantry or joined other units in France and on the Western Front.
This section of the website will look at the huge variation of Cap and Collar badges worn by the 17 New Zealand Infantry and 12 Mounted Rifle Regiments from 1911 until now.
New Zealand Infantry Regiments
1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment.
Formed in 1911, with Headquarters at Christchurch:
- Left: A Officers Bronze and Silver (not marked as such to back) Cap badge with two tangs or blades. Maker plaque to back to "J R Gaunt, London".
- Middle: A Gaunt made and plaqued Cap badge, with hook. In 1911 there was little uniformed direction on what Hat or Cap the newly formed New Zealand Army should wear. Therefore it was often left to the Regiment and its Officers to decide. Some, such as 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment, adopted the slouch hat for a period before WW1. It was worn with one flap held up/back, as had been the style during the Boer War. Some badges were therefore produced with a hook at the base. This is a rare survivor, as many of these badges had their hook snapped/clipped off, and issued as normal Cap badge.
- Right: Referred to as the "Spiky Leaf" version, with angular crown and fern wreath, this appears to be a locally made NZ version of the cap badge, and is rare.
- Left: A Officers Bronze and Silver (not marked as such to back) Cap badge with two tangs or blades. Maker plaque to back to "J R Gaunt, London".
- Middle: A Gaunt made and plaqued Cap badge, with hook. In 1911 there was little uniformed direction on what Hat or Cap the newly formed New Zealand Army should wear. Therefore it was often left to the Regiment and its Officers to decide. Some, such as 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment, adopted the slouch hat for a period before WW1. It was worn with one flap held up/back, as had been the style during the Boer War. Some badges were therefore produced with a hook at the base. This is a rare survivor, as many of these badges had their hook snapped/clipped off, and issued as normal Cap badge.
- Right: Referred to as the "Spiky Leaf" version, with angular crown and fern wreath, this appears to be a locally made NZ version of the cap badge, and is rare.
Variations:
- Left: A all brass version of the badge to the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regt. No maker mark, and thin wire loops to back.
- Middle: Again, a all brass version of the badge, but this time with slider. Note the non-voded crown.
- Right: A bi-metal version of the badge, again no maker mark, but it has rather pulled D-shaped looped lugs to the back, so could be "J R Gaunt", but just not marked.
- Left: A all brass version of the badge to the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regt. No maker mark, and thin wire loops to back.
- Middle: Again, a all brass version of the badge, but this time with slider. Note the non-voded crown.
- Right: A bi-metal version of the badge, again no maker mark, but it has rather pulled D-shaped looped lugs to the back, so could be "J R Gaunt", but just not marked.
- Opposite: A Bi-metal Cap badge and Bi-metal collars to the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Maker plaqued to back of Cap badge crown to "J R Gaunt, London". Both collars have D shaped copper loops to back, but only the left is impressed to "J R Gaunt, London".
- Far Left and Far Right: A matching opposing pair of Gilt Fired and Silver collars (not marked) to the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Both have D shaped copper loops to back.
- Middle Left: A solid backed, Gilt Fired Cap badge to the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Marked "S" to back (for Silver center) but no maker mark, this is the 1911 to 1952 version of the badge.
- Middle Right: A solid backed, gilt fired Cap badge to the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Impressed to back to "J R Gaunt, London", this is the Queens Crowned version, and used from 1952 to 1964, after which the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regt became a Battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment.
- Middle Left: A solid backed, Gilt Fired Cap badge to the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Marked "S" to back (for Silver center) but no maker mark, this is the 1911 to 1952 version of the badge.
- Middle Right: A solid backed, gilt fired Cap badge to the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Impressed to back to "J R Gaunt, London", this is the Queens Crowned version, and used from 1952 to 1964, after which the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regt became a Battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment.
Some Variations:
- Left: A sand cast Brass Cap badge, complete with Gaunt plaque cast into its back. Made in the Middle East during WW1 as Kiwi Regiments were briefly stationed there or passed through to other theaters of War.
- Top Right: A all white metal version of the Collar. It could be its just lost the upper banner over-lay. No maker mark.
- Bottom Right: A unusual collar size badge, initially it looks to have been cut from a Cap badge, but is not, as its missing then the lower oval center banner which would be between the feet of the Heron and the middle banner. Purpose unknown. Two copper looped lugs to back.
The Regiment amalgamated with the 12th & 13th (Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast) Infantry Regiment in 1964 to become the 2nd Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (RNZIR).
- Left: A sand cast Brass Cap badge, complete with Gaunt plaque cast into its back. Made in the Middle East during WW1 as Kiwi Regiments were briefly stationed there or passed through to other theaters of War.
- Top Right: A all white metal version of the Collar. It could be its just lost the upper banner over-lay. No maker mark.
- Bottom Right: A unusual collar size badge, initially it looks to have been cut from a Cap badge, but is not, as its missing then the lower oval center banner which would be between the feet of the Heron and the middle banner. Purpose unknown. Two copper looped lugs to back.
The Regiment amalgamated with the 12th & 13th (Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast) Infantry Regiment in 1964 to become the 2nd Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (RNZIR).
2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment.
Formed in 1911, with Headquarters at Timaru:
- Left: A Bronze, bi-metal, solid back Officers Cap badge to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Two tangs or blades to back and impressed with the maker details of "J R Gaunt, London".
- Right: A bi-metal , solid back Officers Collar badge to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Two D-shaped copper looped lugs to back and impressed with the maker details of "J R Gaunt, London".
- Left: A Bronze, bi-metal, solid back Officers Cap badge to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Two tangs or blades to back and impressed with the maker details of "J R Gaunt, London".
- Right: A bi-metal , solid back Officers Collar badge to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Two D-shaped copper looped lugs to back and impressed with the maker details of "J R Gaunt, London".
Three Other Ranks Cap badge to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Note the variations in Kiwi and vegetation to base of center.
- Left: A blackened Cap badge to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
- Middle: A gilt brass cap badge to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Much larger Kiwi to center, with D shaped copper looped lugs and a maker plaque to back to "J R Gaunt, London"
- Right: A change again in the design of the Kiwi to center. Again D shaped copper looped lugs and a maker plaque to back to "J R Gaunt, London".
- Left: A blackened Cap badge to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
- Middle: A gilt brass cap badge to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Much larger Kiwi to center, with D shaped copper looped lugs and a maker plaque to back to "J R Gaunt, London"
- Right: A change again in the design of the Kiwi to center. Again D shaped copper looped lugs and a maker plaque to back to "J R Gaunt, London".
- Above Left: A pair of Gilt brass Collar badge to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Opposing, with D shaped copper looped lugs and both are maker plaqued to "J R Gaunt, London".
- Above Right: A pair of Darkened brass Collar badge to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Opposing, with D shaped copper looped lugs and both are maker plaqued to "J R Gaunt, London". |
- Top Left: A variation made again by Gaunt, with larger base relief and a more up-right Kiwi. D shaped copper looped lugs to back, along with a maker plaque.
- Bottom Left: A all brass version of the Collar badge to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Copper looped lugs, but no maker mark. I have not seen a Cap or other collar badge to match this. - Right: Just for comparison, a 1902 to 1911 pattern Collar badge to the South Canterbury Battalion. Scarce and probably made by Gaunt, every now and then one comes to market and can be mistaken for a later pattern badge. |
Above: A group photo, taken in France (it says 1916 to back) of Officers to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Sadly unidentified at this stage, but a possible ID of the Officer, back row, second from the right as 6/478 William Moyse Hocking.
The 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment was absorbed into the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment in 1921.
The 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment was absorbed into the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment in 1921.
3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment.
The 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment was formed in 1911, with Headquarters at Auckland:
- Opposite Left: A darkened bronze Officers Cap badge to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. Two tangs or blades to back, with maker impressed to back to "J R Gaunt, London".
- Opposite Right: A solid, bronze, Officers Collar badge to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. Impressed to back to "J R Gaunt, London", and with two D shaped copper looped lugs.
- Opposite Left: A darkened bronze Officers Cap badge to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. Two tangs or blades to back, with maker impressed to back to "J R Gaunt, London".
- Opposite Right: A solid, bronze, Officers Collar badge to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. Impressed to back to "J R Gaunt, London", and with two D shaped copper looped lugs.
- Top Row Left: A single piece, gilt brass Cap badge to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. No maker mark to back, and thick copper wire loops.
- Top Row Right: A solid gilt brass NZ made Cap badge, with twisted brass looped lugs to back to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. No maker mark.
- Center: A gilt brass WW1 era Cap badge to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. Maker plaqued to "J R Gaunt, London" to behind crown, it has two D shaped copper looped lugs.
- Bottom Row Left & Right: Gilt brass opposing Collar badge pair to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. These have the marker plaque of "J R Gaunt, London" to back, along with the D shaped copper lugs.
- Top Row Right: A solid gilt brass NZ made Cap badge, with twisted brass looped lugs to back to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. No maker mark.
- Center: A gilt brass WW1 era Cap badge to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. Maker plaqued to "J R Gaunt, London" to behind crown, it has two D shaped copper looped lugs.
- Bottom Row Left & Right: Gilt brass opposing Collar badge pair to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. These have the marker plaque of "J R Gaunt, London" to back, along with the D shaped copper lugs.
- Above Left & Bottom Center: A variation to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment Cap and Collar badge. Non-voided background to both Cap center, and underneath of Arm. No maker mark, and thin wire type lugs to back.
- Above Right: A Cap badge to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment in Gilt brass with Slider to back. |
- Above Top Left: A gilt fired Cap badge to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. Solid to back, with long looped lugs. No maker mark.
- Above Top Right: A post 1952 gilt fired cap badge to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. Again, solid to back, but impressed with the maker details of "J R Gaunt, London". - Bottom Row: A pair of gilt fired collar badges to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. Both are solid to back, and have two D shaped copper lugs. No maker mark. |
Opposite: A scarce set of Cap and matching, opposing Collar badges to the 1st Battalion, (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. Worn initially with the formation of the regiment in 1911.
The 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment badges were worn until 1964, when the Regiment merged with the 15th (Northland) Infantry Regiment and became the 3rd Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (RNZIR).
The 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment badges were worn until 1964, when the Regiment merged with the 15th (Northland) Infantry Regiment and became the 3rd Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (RNZIR).
4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment.
Formed in 1911, with Headquarters at Dunedin:
- Opposite: is the first pattern of badges worn by the 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment, from 1911 until around 1914. All brass, with short copper looped lugs to back. Note, not much difference in size between Collars and Cap. No maker mark.
- Opposite: is the first pattern of badges worn by the 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment, from 1911 until around 1914. All brass, with short copper looped lugs to back. Note, not much difference in size between Collars and Cap. No maker mark.
- Above: A Collar badge to the 6th Regt, N.Z.R - it has been mentioned that this could be to either a Territorial unit or maybe a Reinforcement Badge. Not often seen, and I have yet to come across a Cap and other Collar.
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Some variations:
- Top Row Above: A darkened Copper Cap badge to the 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment. No maker mark to back, and short copper looped lugs. - Middle Row Above: Non-voided, opposing collar badges to the 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment in brass. Again, no maker mark, and short looped lugs to back. - Bottom Row Above: A darkened Copper Cap badge to the 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment. No maker mark to back, and a long slider. |
- Opposite: A large Horse breast badge to the 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment. It is usually mounted on a piece of leather. Cast brass, with three large D-shaped lugs to back. The Cap badge in the upper right hand corner is just for scale/show size.
From around 1914, the Regiment changed its Cap and Collar design to the opposite. They were worn overseas by the 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment in WW1.
- Opposite Left: Cap and opposing Collar pair is made by J R Gaunt, of London.
- Opposite Right: Cap and opposing Collar pair are unmarked, and possibly locally NZ made.
The 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment fought in both WW1 and WW2, but amalgamated with the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment in 1948 to form the Otago and Southland Regiment (their badges are below).
- Opposite Left: Cap and opposing Collar pair is made by J R Gaunt, of London.
- Opposite Right: Cap and opposing Collar pair are unmarked, and possibly locally NZ made.
The 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment fought in both WW1 and WW2, but amalgamated with the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment in 1948 to form the Otago and Southland Regiment (their badges are below).
5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment
Formed in 1911, with Headquarters at Wellington:
- Opposite: A selection of other ranks Cap and Collar badges to the 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment.
At the outbreak of WW1, the regiments members made up part of the Samoan Expeditionary Force, sent in August 1914 to capture German held Samoa. Upon its return in early 1915, some of its members re-enlisted, and formed parts of the 1st and 2nd Battalions of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade, who saw action in France.
- Top row: A gilt brass Cap and Collar badge pair to 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment. Both Cap and opposing Collars have maker plaque to back to "J R Gaunt, London". All have copper looped lugs to back.
- Bottom row: A opposing pair of Gilt fired brass Collar to 1st Battalion, 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment. I have yet to see a Gilt Fired Cap badge.
The right collar (as pictured) was worn as a Cap badge by Wellington Volunteer units prior to 1911, and usually had a brass "N" and "Z" either side to front of Cap.
- Opposite: A selection of other ranks Cap and Collar badges to the 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment.
At the outbreak of WW1, the regiments members made up part of the Samoan Expeditionary Force, sent in August 1914 to capture German held Samoa. Upon its return in early 1915, some of its members re-enlisted, and formed parts of the 1st and 2nd Battalions of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade, who saw action in France.
- Top row: A gilt brass Cap and Collar badge pair to 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment. Both Cap and opposing Collars have maker plaque to back to "J R Gaunt, London". All have copper looped lugs to back.
- Bottom row: A opposing pair of Gilt fired brass Collar to 1st Battalion, 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment. I have yet to see a Gilt Fired Cap badge.
The right collar (as pictured) was worn as a Cap badge by Wellington Volunteer units prior to 1911, and usually had a brass "N" and "Z" either side to front of Cap.
The following are Officer Cap and Collars to the 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment. There is photographic evidence that these badges were worn during WW1
- Opposite: A Officers darkened bronze Cap and Collar set to the 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment. All badges have 2 blades or tangs to back and are impressed to "Firmin, London".
- Opposite: A Officers darkened bronze Cap and Collar set to the 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment. All badges have 2 blades or tangs to back and are impressed to "Firmin, London".
- Opposite Left: A gilt brass "other ranks" Cap badge to the 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment. Pressed type brass lugs to back. No maker mark.
- Opposite Middle: A solid bronze Officers Cap badge to the 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment. Three lugs or blades which have been cut off, and a pair of wire looped lugs soldered to back. Maker impressed to back, which is partly obliterated, so I can only see "London", but I presume Gaunt. it has remnants of darkened coating to back.
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass cap badge to the 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment. D shaped copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Gaunt?
- Opposite Middle: A solid bronze Officers Cap badge to the 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment. Three lugs or blades which have been cut off, and a pair of wire looped lugs soldered to back. Maker impressed to back, which is partly obliterated, so I can only see "London", but I presume Gaunt. it has remnants of darkened coating to back.
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass cap badge to the 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment. D shaped copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Gaunt?
- Opposite: A gilt fired Cap and Collar badge set to the 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment. The Cap badge is semi-solid, with long looped lugs to back. The Collars are die stamped, but very heavily gilded. All have no maker mark.
- Opposite Top Row Left & Right: A gilt brass Collar badge pair to the 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment. Both have D shaped copper looped lugs to back, but are not maker marked. They appear to be Gaunt made.
- Opposite Top Row Center: A gilt brass Cap badge to the 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment. Thick copper looped lugs to back, and on the base banner is the maker mark of "M & K, W" for Mayer & Kean, Wellington.
- Opposite Bottom Left: A variation of attachment to the Cap badge of the 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment. Two threaded posts to back, with flanges. No maker mark.
- Opposite Bottom Right: A chromed Collar badge to the 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment. Possible used for the Regimental Band. D shaped looped lugs to back.
In 1964, the 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment merged with the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment to become the 7th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (RNZIR).
- Opposite Top Row Center: A gilt brass Cap badge to the 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment. Thick copper looped lugs to back, and on the base banner is the maker mark of "M & K, W" for Mayer & Kean, Wellington.
- Opposite Bottom Left: A variation of attachment to the Cap badge of the 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment. Two threaded posts to back, with flanges. No maker mark.
- Opposite Bottom Right: A chromed Collar badge to the 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment. Possible used for the Regimental Band. D shaped looped lugs to back.
In 1964, the 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment merged with the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment to become the 7th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (RNZIR).
6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment
Formed in 1911, with Headquarters at Tauranga:
- Opposite: Rare bi-metal Officers Cap and Collar badges to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. These would have been worn prior to WW1, and just after the Regiment was formed.
- Top Center: A brass and white metal Cap badge to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. With tangs to back and is maker marked to "J R Gaunt London".
- Middle Left & Right: A selection of bi-metal collars. Note I am missing the gilt brass center piece on two of them. They are opposing, with the two Lion's facing inwards. The third collar is complete with backing plate and some remnants of black material to center. It would have been worn as a left collar.
- Bottom: A superb brooched example of a Officers or Sweethearts badge to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. It is known that some Officers preferred to have brooch fittings to back rather than lugs or tangs. It retains much of its gilt finish and like the above, and is maker plaqued to "J R Gaunt, London".
- Opposite: Rare bi-metal Officers Cap and Collar badges to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. These would have been worn prior to WW1, and just after the Regiment was formed.
- Top Center: A brass and white metal Cap badge to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. With tangs to back and is maker marked to "J R Gaunt London".
- Middle Left & Right: A selection of bi-metal collars. Note I am missing the gilt brass center piece on two of them. They are opposing, with the two Lion's facing inwards. The third collar is complete with backing plate and some remnants of black material to center. It would have been worn as a left collar.
- Bottom: A superb brooched example of a Officers or Sweethearts badge to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. It is known that some Officers preferred to have brooch fittings to back rather than lugs or tangs. It retains much of its gilt finish and like the above, and is maker plaqued to "J R Gaunt, London".
- Opposite: A Officers Bronze Cap and Collar badge to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. Note the voiding to center, which seems to be a feature on Officers Cap badges to this regiment. This example has had its tangs removed from the back, and a long brooch fitting attached. Maker mark, impressed to the semi-solid back to "J R Gaunt, London".
The Collar is in a darkened copper/bronze finish, with D shaped lugs to back. No maker mark, and left when worn.
The Collar is in a darkened copper/bronze finish, with D shaped lugs to back. No maker mark, and left when worn.
- Above: A gilt fired brass set of Cap and opposing Collars (note the lions face in different directions to center) to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment.
All badges are semi-solid to back, with long looped lugs. Only the Cap badge is maker mark impressed to back base to "J R Gaunt, London". |
- Above Top: A gilt brass, other ranks Cap badge to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. Maker plaqued to back to "J R Gaunt, London".
- Above Middle and Bottom: A gilt brass, other ranks set to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. Both opposing collars are not marked, but the Cap badge has a raised maker mark to "M & K Ltd, Wgtn, NZ" for Mayer & Kean, Wellington, New Zealand, on the lower left of the banner back. |
- Opposite: Two variations in Collar badge to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment.
Left is a gilt brass "left" collar when worn. Note the elongated center rays of the star to top and bottom. No maker mark to back, with two copper looped lugs.
Right is again a gilt brass "left" collar badge, for comparison with the other. This is maker marked to back to "J R Gaunt, London" on a small brass plaque. Two D shaped copper looped lugs.
Left is a gilt brass "left" collar when worn. Note the elongated center rays of the star to top and bottom. No maker mark to back, with two copper looped lugs.
Right is again a gilt brass "left" collar badge, for comparison with the other. This is maker marked to back to "J R Gaunt, London" on a small brass plaque. Two D shaped copper looped lugs.
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- Opposite: A full length image of 12/3760 Pte. Alexander Neil Mcleod. Alex started his service on the 20th of October 1915, as part of A Coy, 9th Infantry Reinforcements. This was later changed to the 10th Reinforcements.
He saw 3 years and 53 days overseas during WW1, with the Auckland Infantry Regiment. Here he is wearing the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment Cap badge and Collar badges. - Above: A earlier image of Alex's military life. He is standing, holding the guide rope of the tent at Trentham Camp as part of either A Coy, 9th or 10th Infantry Reinforcements. Happily Alex survived WW1, and went on to serve at home in WW2, with the service number 812218 |
The 6th (Hauraki) still exist today, but are now part of the 3 Battalions of Territorial Force which support the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (RNZIR).
They are designated as the 3rd/6th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (3/6 RNZIR), from
- Above Center: A large painted chrome metal badge to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regimental Band.
They are designated as the 3rd/6th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (3/6 RNZIR), from
- - 3rd Battalion (Auckland [Countess of Ranfurly's Own] and Northland Regiment),
- - 6th Battalion (Hauraki Regiment)
- They still wear a version of their badge, as opposite, and it comes in a gilded metal (left set) or darkened version (right set).
- Note the Collar badges are now worn voided to center.
- Above Center: A large painted chrome metal badge to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regimental Band.
7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment.
Cap and Collar badges to the 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment. Formed again in 1911.
- Opposite: A Cap and Collar badge set to the 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment. Maker marked to J R Gaunt of London. Gilt brass finish is now a dull tone.
- Opposite: A Cap and Collar badge set to the 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment. Maker marked to J R Gaunt of London. Gilt brass finish is now a dull tone.
- Opposite: A unmarked set of badges 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment. Just showing variation, especially the left Collar (pictured), where the Lion is completely different to the Gaunt style above. The lower banner's motto is also smaller lettered.
- Opposite Left: A single bronze Officers collar to the 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment. Semi-solid to back and impressed to "J R Gaunt, London".
- Opposite Right: A sand cast collar to the 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment. Probably middle Eastern manufacture, around WW1.
The 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment amalgamated with the 11th (Taranaki) Infantry Regiment after WW2 to form the 7th/11th Wellington West Coast & Taranaki Regiment (its badges are further down).
- Opposite Right: A sand cast collar to the 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment. Probably middle Eastern manufacture, around WW1.
The 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment amalgamated with the 11th (Taranaki) Infantry Regiment after WW2 to form the 7th/11th Wellington West Coast & Taranaki Regiment (its badges are further down).
8th (Southland Rifles) Infantry Regiment.
Two sets of Cap and opposing Collar badges to the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment. Fought in both WW1 and WW2, but amalgamated with the Otago Regiment in 1948 to form the Otago and Southland Regiment.
- Left Set: Cap and opposing Collar badges in gilt brass to the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment. All have marker plaqued to "J R Gaunt, London" to back.
- Right Set: Cap and opposing Collar badges in darkened bronze to the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment.
- Left Set: Cap and opposing Collar badges in gilt brass to the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment. All have marker plaqued to "J R Gaunt, London" to back.
- Right Set: Cap and opposing Collar badges in darkened bronze to the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment.
- Above: The scarce "Spear Across the Body" type, possible to counter the issue of the spear breaking off. If you have ever tried to collect a set of badges to the 8th, you will come across many examples where the spear tip has snapped off. This type appear to be locally made in New Zealand.
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- Above: A semi-solid bronze Cap badge with Silver Spear. Mine is a little toned, so its difficult to distinguish the separately applied Taiaha (Spear in Maori). Badge is impressed to back to J R Gaunt of London.
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- Opposite: A superb, full length picture of 8/448 2nd Lieut Henry Nicolson around late 1918/1919.
Henry was from Invercargill, in the south of the South Island. He started his military service on the 14th of August 1914 and was to spend 3 years and 206 days overseas.
He rose from the rank of Private to 2nd Lieutenant.
Henry left with the main body of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force, traveling to Egypt, and then onto Gallipoli with the Otago Infantry Battalion.
In September 1915, he was evacuated out from the peninsula, sick.
Recovered, he went on to join the 3rd Battalion of the Otago Infantry Regiment, in France, where he was wounded (Gunshot wound to face and chest) on the 4th of October 1917.
He was to lose his right eye in December that year.
Henry remained in the UK until July 1918, as part of New Zealand Headquarters, based in London. He was then stuck off strength and sent home due to his wounds.
The opposite photo show Henry presumable at home, in New Zealand, wearing a earlier style of Officers tunic, with rank cuffs to a 2nd Lieutenant. His Lemon Squeezer has the Cap badge to the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment, with matching collars to his tunic.
On his right sleeve are 3 Overseas service Chevrons to represent the 3+ years of his service.
Henry's record shows that he was at least still alive in June 1967, as he was awarded both his Gallipoli medallion and lapel badge.
Henry was from Invercargill, in the south of the South Island. He started his military service on the 14th of August 1914 and was to spend 3 years and 206 days overseas.
He rose from the rank of Private to 2nd Lieutenant.
Henry left with the main body of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force, traveling to Egypt, and then onto Gallipoli with the Otago Infantry Battalion.
In September 1915, he was evacuated out from the peninsula, sick.
Recovered, he went on to join the 3rd Battalion of the Otago Infantry Regiment, in France, where he was wounded (Gunshot wound to face and chest) on the 4th of October 1917.
He was to lose his right eye in December that year.
Henry remained in the UK until July 1918, as part of New Zealand Headquarters, based in London. He was then stuck off strength and sent home due to his wounds.
The opposite photo show Henry presumable at home, in New Zealand, wearing a earlier style of Officers tunic, with rank cuffs to a 2nd Lieutenant. His Lemon Squeezer has the Cap badge to the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment, with matching collars to his tunic.
On his right sleeve are 3 Overseas service Chevrons to represent the 3+ years of his service.
Henry's record shows that he was at least still alive in June 1967, as he was awarded both his Gallipoli medallion and lapel badge.
In 1948 The 4th (Otago) and 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiments merged, and formed the Otago and Southland Regiment.
- Above: A Cap and Collar badge set in gilt fired brass to the Otago and Southland Regiment. The Cap badge to center is different to the right collar (when pictured) in that the size of the lugs on the Cap badge are a lot longer. All have a raised maker mark of "J R Gaunt, London" to back. |
- Above: A gilt brass, die stamped Cap badge to the Otago and Southland Regiment. It does not appear to have had collars issued with it.
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The Otago and Southland Regiment became the 4th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (RNZIR) in 1964.
9th (East Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment.
A selection of Cap and Collar badges to the 9th (Wellington East Coast) Infantry Regiment.
- Top Center: A Officers darkened bronze Cap badge to the 9th (Wellington East Coast) Infantry Regiment. Semi-solid to back, with the maker details impressed to "J R Gaunt, London". Two D shaped looped lugs to back.
- Left & Right Middle: A pair of gilt brass collar badges to the 9th (Wellington East Coast) Infantry Regiment. No maker mark, but D shaped copper looped lugs to back.
- Bottom Center: A "Other Ranks" Cap badge to the 9th (Wellington East Coast) Infantry Regiment. Copper looped lugs to back and a maker plaque to "J R Gaunt, London".
- Top Center: A Officers darkened bronze Cap badge to the 9th (Wellington East Coast) Infantry Regiment. Semi-solid to back, with the maker details impressed to "J R Gaunt, London". Two D shaped looped lugs to back.
- Left & Right Middle: A pair of gilt brass collar badges to the 9th (Wellington East Coast) Infantry Regiment. No maker mark, but D shaped copper looped lugs to back.
- Bottom Center: A "Other Ranks" Cap badge to the 9th (Wellington East Coast) Infantry Regiment. Copper looped lugs to back and a maker plaque to "J R Gaunt, London".
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- Opposite & Above: A rare variation of the 9th (Wellington East Coast) Infantry Regiment Cap badge.
Issued with a hook to hold back the flap of a slouched hat, these are rare especially to this regiment. Like the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment hooked Cap badge, they came about prior to WW1 due to the different Regiments adopting a wide range of Hats. At some stage the 9th (Wellington East Coast) Infantry Regiment adopted the slouch Hat, with the Cap Badge worn to the side, and the brim of the Hat worn up. The hook would have been used to hold the brim back. Sadly this has been bent 360 degrees, behind the badge, but the hook is still firmly attached. Maker plaqued to J R Gaunt to back. |
In 1921 the 9th (Wellington East Coast) Infantry Regiment amalgamated with the 17th (Ruahine) Infantry Regiment and became the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment in 1923.
- Top Center: A semi-solid, Kings Crown, Gilt Fired Brass Cap badge to the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment. Two long looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
- Left & Right Middle: Two solid, Gilt Fired Brass Collar badges to the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment. Both have a pair of D shaped copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
- Bottom Center: A semi-solid, Queens Crown, Gilt Fired Brass Cap badge to the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment. Two long looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
- Top Center: A semi-solid, Kings Crown, Gilt Fired Brass Cap badge to the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment. Two long looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
- Left & Right Middle: Two solid, Gilt Fired Brass Collar badges to the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment. Both have a pair of D shaped copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
- Bottom Center: A semi-solid, Queens Crown, Gilt Fired Brass Cap badge to the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment. Two long looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
Two variations on the "Other Ranks" Cap Badge
- Opposite Left: A gilt brass Cap badge to the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment. Smaller crown and motto to base, with two pressed type lugs to back. No maker mark.
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass Cap badge to the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment. Copper wire looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
The regiment amalgamated with the Wellington Regiment, and became the 7th Battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (RNZIR) in 1964.
- Opposite Left: A gilt brass Cap badge to the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment. Smaller crown and motto to base, with two pressed type lugs to back. No maker mark.
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass Cap badge to the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment. Copper wire looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
The regiment amalgamated with the Wellington Regiment, and became the 7th Battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (RNZIR) in 1964.
10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment.
Cap or Collar badge (their were worn as either) to the 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment. Formed in 1911, they were absorbed into the 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment in 1921 and the badge was ceased to be worn.
- Opposite: A pair of darkened bronze, semi-solid Cap or Collar badges to the 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment. Note the void around the shield to center. This feature appears on early badges only (and maybe continued for Officers). Both have two D shaped copper looped lugs to back, with only the left Badge being maker impressed to "J R Gaunt, London". The right has suffered some damage/filing to front.
- Opposite: A pair of darkened bronze, semi-solid Cap or Collar badges to the 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment. Note the void around the shield to center. This feature appears on early badges only (and maybe continued for Officers). Both have two D shaped copper looped lugs to back, with only the left Badge being maker impressed to "J R Gaunt, London". The right has suffered some damage/filing to front.
- Opposite: Gaunt made, gilt brass Cap and or Collar badges to the 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment, with the scarce void area around the shield.
A cautionary tale with these.
A story circulated a few years back with regards to a NZ collector and his Jeweler mate, who mentioned that they were doing a rip-roaring trade in selling voided 10th badges by converting non-void versions, by cutting out the background. The difference in price when sold was apparently well worth their while. ;-(
A cautionary tale with these.
A story circulated a few years back with regards to a NZ collector and his Jeweler mate, who mentioned that they were doing a rip-roaring trade in selling voided 10th badges by converting non-void versions, by cutting out the background. The difference in price when sold was apparently well worth their while. ;-(
- Opposite Top Three: Gaunt made, more common non-void type gilt brass to the 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment. D shaped copper looped lugs to back.
- Opposite Bottom: A New Zealand made 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment Cap or Collar badge. Note the variation in size and shape to the Gaunt made badges. Copper loops to back, but no maker mark.
- Opposite Bottom: A New Zealand made 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment Cap or Collar badge. Note the variation in size and shape to the Gaunt made badges. Copper loops to back, but no maker mark.
11th (Taranaki Rifles) Infantry Regiment.
The 11th (Taranaki Rifles), was, like all the rest formed in 1911.
They wore a couple of variations to their badge.
- Top Right: A bronze Officers Cap badge to the 11th (Taranaki) Rifles Regiment. Note this and the one below, are the scarce early version with the Battle Honors to either side to front. It has been noted by a Commanding Officer of the 11th, that these badges were worn by the Men in France in December 1916. This badge has two tangs or blades to back and is maker impressed to "J R Gaunt, London".
- Bottom Center: Other Ranks, gilt brass version of the 11th (Taranaki) Infantry Regiment Cap or Collar badge with Battle Honors.
They wore a couple of variations to their badge.
- Top Right: A bronze Officers Cap badge to the 11th (Taranaki) Rifles Regiment. Note this and the one below, are the scarce early version with the Battle Honors to either side to front. It has been noted by a Commanding Officer of the 11th, that these badges were worn by the Men in France in December 1916. This badge has two tangs or blades to back and is maker impressed to "J R Gaunt, London".
- Bottom Center: Other Ranks, gilt brass version of the 11th (Taranaki) Infantry Regiment Cap or Collar badge with Battle Honors.
- Above: Cap and/or Collar badge in gilt brass to the 11th Taranaki Rifle Regiment. All three are made by "J R Gaunt London", with this being the standard badge for the Regiment later in WW1.
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- Above: More examples of the Cap and or Collar badge in gilt brass to the 11th Taranaki Rifle Regiment. None of these are maker marked, but have similar or slightly different detail to front from the Gaunt examples. The bottom center badge has 2 hex type brass lugs to back, much like you would find on a WW1 Reinforcements badge.
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After WW2 the 11th (Taranaki) Infantry Regiment amalgamated with the 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment to form the 7th/11th (Wellington West Coast & Taranaki) Regiment.
In 1964, they became the 5th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (RNZIR), and are now a Territorial Force of the RNZIR.
- Top Row: Opposing darkened metal collars to the 7th/11th. Worn today.
- Middle Row: Older 1950's/60's style Cap and opposing Collar badge to the 7th/11th (Wellington West Coast & Taranaki) Regiment in Gilt brass and White Metal. These badges also come in Anodised two tone Aluminium.
- Above Bottom Row: In 2008 the Regiment celebrated its 150th Anniversary (1858 to 2008) and badges were struck in gilded metal (bottom left), Bronze (not pictured) and Silver (bottom right) to commemorate the occasion. The silver badges are numbered to back. Mine is number 18.
In 1964, they became the 5th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (RNZIR), and are now a Territorial Force of the RNZIR.
- Top Row: Opposing darkened metal collars to the 7th/11th. Worn today.
- Middle Row: Older 1950's/60's style Cap and opposing Collar badge to the 7th/11th (Wellington West Coast & Taranaki) Regiment in Gilt brass and White Metal. These badges also come in Anodised two tone Aluminium.
- Above Bottom Row: In 2008 the Regiment celebrated its 150th Anniversary (1858 to 2008) and badges were struck in gilded metal (bottom left), Bronze (not pictured) and Silver (bottom right) to commemorate the occasion. The silver badges are numbered to back. Mine is number 18.
12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiment.
The 12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiment again formed in 1911.
- Opposite Top Center: A darkened Bronze Officer Cap badge to the 12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiment, with two blade tangs to back. Mine is missing one tang.
- Middle and Bottom Center: Darkened and gilt other ranks brass Cap and opposing Collar badges to the 12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiment. All are maker plaqued to "J R Gaunt, London".
- Opposite Top Center: A darkened Bronze Officer Cap badge to the 12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiment, with two blade tangs to back. Mine is missing one tang.
- Middle and Bottom Center: Darkened and gilt other ranks brass Cap and opposing Collar badges to the 12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiment. All are maker plaqued to "J R Gaunt, London".
In 1917, due to losses on the Western Front, part of the 13th (North Canterbury and Westland) Infantry Regiment merged with the 12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiment. On the 13th of April 1917, the title of the 12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiment was changed to the 12th (Nelson & Marlborough) Infantry Regiment. This was reflected in a new badge, which is rather hard to get.
- Top Center: A Cap badge to the 12th (Nelson & Marlborough) Infantry Regiment.
- Center Row: Opposing Collar badges to the 12th (Nelson & Marlborough) Infantry Regiment.
- Bottom Center: A unusual probably post WW1 bi-metal Collar badge to the 12th (Nelson & Marlborough) Infantry Regiment. I have yet to see a Cap and the other opposing Collar.
In 1923, the 12th merged with the 13th to form the 12th & 13th (Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast) Infantry Regiment. Their combined badge is further down.
- Top Center: A Cap badge to the 12th (Nelson & Marlborough) Infantry Regiment.
- Center Row: Opposing Collar badges to the 12th (Nelson & Marlborough) Infantry Regiment.
- Bottom Center: A unusual probably post WW1 bi-metal Collar badge to the 12th (Nelson & Marlborough) Infantry Regiment. I have yet to see a Cap and the other opposing Collar.
In 1923, the 12th merged with the 13th to form the 12th & 13th (Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast) Infantry Regiment. Their combined badge is further down.
13th (North Canterbury and Westland) Infantry Regiment
Formed in 1911, the 13th (North Canterbury) Infantry Regiment existed for just a year, before the Regiments title and badge were changed. Opposite are the rarest of the New Zealand Infantry Badges.
The Cap badge was reportedly re-issued to local Cub and Scout groups at the time, and seems more common than the Collar badges.
- Top Center: A semi-solid gilt and Silver Cap badge by J R Gaunt. Sadly its missing the top Silver feather over-lay to upper center.
- Middle Row: A pair of scarce white metal and brass Collar badges. Note the right has been re-painted with black to the feather. This is how they would have looked, when issued, but is not original. The left is as you find them now (if you can!).
- Bottom Center: A die stamped Gilt brass and white metal Cap badge to the 13th (North Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Both this Cap and the Collars have a Gaunt plaque to back.
The Cap badge was reportedly re-issued to local Cub and Scout groups at the time, and seems more common than the Collar badges.
- Top Center: A semi-solid gilt and Silver Cap badge by J R Gaunt. Sadly its missing the top Silver feather over-lay to upper center.
- Middle Row: A pair of scarce white metal and brass Collar badges. Note the right has been re-painted with black to the feather. This is how they would have looked, when issued, but is not original. The left is as you find them now (if you can!).
- Bottom Center: A die stamped Gilt brass and white metal Cap badge to the 13th (North Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Both this Cap and the Collars have a Gaunt plaque to back.
In January 1912, the regiment change its title to the 13th (North Canterbury and Westland) Infantry Regiment, and they adopted the opposite Cap and Collar badges until 1923 (in theory). All are gilt brass with white metal numbers soldered at 4 points on the frame. All these three have the "J R Gaunt, London" plaque to back.
In 1923, the 12th (Nelson & Marlborough) Infantry Regiment merged with the 13th to form the 12th & 13th (Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast) Infantry Regiment. At time the badges opposite were deeply unpopular with both Regiments, and they continued to wear the 12th (Nelson - not Nelson and Marlborough) and 13th (North Canterbury & Westland) badges.
After WW2, it was mandated that the Regiment (the 12th & 13th (Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast) Infantry Regiment) wear the new badge.
- Left: Die Stamped gilt brass Cap badge to the 12th & 13th. Rough strike, but does not appear to have ever been issued with similar type collars.
- Top Row, Right: Gilt Fired Kings Crowned versions of the 12th & 13th Cap and Collar badges. Note the Collar worn on the left (depicting the Stag facing the same way as the Cap badge) is impossible to get. Very few seem to have been made.
- Bottom Row, Right: Gilt Fired Queens Crowned (so Post 1952) versions of the 12th & 13th Cap and Collar badges.
In 1964 the 12th & 13th (Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast) Infantry Regiment amalgamated with the Canterbury Regiment becoming the 2nd Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (RNZIR).
After WW2, it was mandated that the Regiment (the 12th & 13th (Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast) Infantry Regiment) wear the new badge.
- Left: Die Stamped gilt brass Cap badge to the 12th & 13th. Rough strike, but does not appear to have ever been issued with similar type collars.
- Top Row, Right: Gilt Fired Kings Crowned versions of the 12th & 13th Cap and Collar badges. Note the Collar worn on the left (depicting the Stag facing the same way as the Cap badge) is impossible to get. Very few seem to have been made.
- Bottom Row, Right: Gilt Fired Queens Crowned (so Post 1952) versions of the 12th & 13th Cap and Collar badges.
In 1964 the 12th & 13th (Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast) Infantry Regiment amalgamated with the Canterbury Regiment becoming the 2nd Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (RNZIR).
14th (South Otago) Infantry Regiment.
The 14th (South Otago) Infantry Regiment Cap and Collar badges.
Formed in 1911, it merged with the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment in 1921 to become The Southland Regiment.
The Cap badge comes in two types
- Top Row: Die stamped, gilt brass with Gaunt plaques to back.
- Bottom Row: Non-void locally NZ made version in again die stamped brass. Not maker marked.
Formed in 1911, it merged with the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment in 1921 to become The Southland Regiment.
The Cap badge comes in two types
- Top Row: Die stamped, gilt brass with Gaunt plaques to back.
- Bottom Row: Non-void locally NZ made version in again die stamped brass. Not maker marked.
Some variations:
- Top Row: A bronze Officers Cap badge to the 14th. Tangs to back, but both have been broken off.
- Bottom Row: Right is a silver (not marked) collar badge (with lugs). Fair amount of wear to front, so I know that its not plated. The Gaunt plaqued Collar on the left is for comparison.
- Top Row: A bronze Officers Cap badge to the 14th. Tangs to back, but both have been broken off.
- Bottom Row: Right is a silver (not marked) collar badge (with lugs). Fair amount of wear to front, so I know that its not plated. The Gaunt plaqued Collar on the left is for comparison.
15th (North Auckland) Infantry Regiment.
The 15th (North Auckland) Cap and Collar Badges, which formed in 1911.
- Top Row: A darkened brass, Officers Cap badge, solid, with tangs and a matching Officers bronze collar badge. Both are impressed to J R Gaunt of London.
- Middle Row: A die stamped, other ranks, gilt brass set with Gaunt plaques to back.
- Bottom Row: A single gilt fired, semi-solid brass Collar badge. A Cap was also issued in this finish, but it is eluding me at the moment.
- Top Row: A darkened brass, Officers Cap badge, solid, with tangs and a matching Officers bronze collar badge. Both are impressed to J R Gaunt of London.
- Middle Row: A die stamped, other ranks, gilt brass set with Gaunt plaques to back.
- Bottom Row: A single gilt fired, semi-solid brass Collar badge. A Cap was also issued in this finish, but it is eluding me at the moment.
In 1951, the Regiment was renamed to the 15th (Northland) Infantry Regiment, and a Queens crown Cap and Collar badge were issued.
- Top Row: A gilt fired Queens crown set of badges to the 15th (Northland) Infantry Regiment.
- Bottom Row: A gilt brass Cap badge to the 15th (Northland) Infantry Regiment. It seems no corresponding collars were issued with this finish.
The 15th (Northland) Infantry Regiment amalgamated with the Auckland Regiment in 1964 and became the 3rd Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (RNZIR).
- Top Row: A gilt fired Queens crown set of badges to the 15th (Northland) Infantry Regiment.
- Bottom Row: A gilt brass Cap badge to the 15th (Northland) Infantry Regiment. It seems no corresponding collars were issued with this finish.
The 15th (Northland) Infantry Regiment amalgamated with the Auckland Regiment in 1964 and became the 3rd Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (RNZIR).
16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment.
The 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment Cap and Collar badges which formed in 1911.
- Top Row: A Officers Bronze Cap and Collar badge to the 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment, maker marked by J R Gaunt of London. The Cap badge is tanged or bladed to back.
- Bottom Row: A gilt brass (now darkened) Cap and opposing Collar badge pair other ranks pair to the 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment. All are Gaunt plaqued to back.
- Top Row: A Officers Bronze Cap and Collar badge to the 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment, maker marked by J R Gaunt of London. The Cap badge is tanged or bladed to back.
- Bottom Row: A gilt brass (now darkened) Cap and opposing Collar badge pair other ranks pair to the 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment. All are Gaunt plaqued to back.
Some Variations:
- Left: Darkened Cap badge with slider to the 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment.
- Right: Rare bi-metal Gilt fired brass and silver Cap badge to the 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment.
The 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment was absorbed into the 1st Armoured Regiment in 1950, but apparently a Queens crown version of the Cap badge was made by mistake (some 50 or so). I have yet to see one for sale.
- Left: Darkened Cap badge with slider to the 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment.
- Right: Rare bi-metal Gilt fired brass and silver Cap badge to the 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment.
The 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment was absorbed into the 1st Armoured Regiment in 1950, but apparently a Queens crown version of the Cap badge was made by mistake (some 50 or so). I have yet to see one for sale.
17th (Ruahine) Infantry Regiment.
The 17th (Ruahine) Infantry Regiment.
The Ruahine existed as a Volunteer unit based around Wellington prior to 1911. Its members were absorbed into the four Wellington Area Regiments when the New Zealand Army was established in 1911.
In early 1914 approval was given to establish the 17th (Ruahine) Infantry Regiment. Recruiting began, and its members boarded with the main body of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force, when it left NZ's shores in October 1914. There is some doubts on whether the unit actually had a badge issued to them by this time.
In Egypt, the Sultan gifted the Regiment its first sets of badges as a thank you from the Egyptian nation. Issued to the men at the time, was the British Sun hat, and gift included a large badge to fit the hat. This is unique, as no other NZ Regiment was issued with a Sun hat badge.
- Top: Bronze Officers semi-solid Cap or Collar badge (they were worn as either).
The Ruahine existed as a Volunteer unit based around Wellington prior to 1911. Its members were absorbed into the four Wellington Area Regiments when the New Zealand Army was established in 1911.
In early 1914 approval was given to establish the 17th (Ruahine) Infantry Regiment. Recruiting began, and its members boarded with the main body of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force, when it left NZ's shores in October 1914. There is some doubts on whether the unit actually had a badge issued to them by this time.
In Egypt, the Sultan gifted the Regiment its first sets of badges as a thank you from the Egyptian nation. Issued to the men at the time, was the British Sun hat, and gift included a large badge to fit the hat. This is unique, as no other NZ Regiment was issued with a Sun hat badge.
- Top: Bronze Officers semi-solid Cap or Collar badge (they were worn as either).
- Above Left: Gilt Brass Other Ranks Sun Hat Helmet Badge. It has a small J R Gaunt plaque to center back.
- Above Right: Darkened Bronze, semi-solid Officers Sun Hat Helmet Badge, and again marked to J R Gaunt of London.
- Bottom Row: Gilt brass Cap or Collars to the 17th. All are J R Gaunt of London marked to back.
- Above Right: Darkened Bronze, semi-solid Officers Sun Hat Helmet Badge, and again marked to J R Gaunt of London.
- Bottom Row: Gilt brass Cap or Collars to the 17th. All are J R Gaunt of London marked to back.
- Opposite: A WW1 era image of a unnamed Sergeant with his loved-one. Sadly no message to back other than the UK studio name of "Samuels Ltd, Photographers, 27 Piccadilly, 84 & 150 Strand, London.
Note the Cap badge to Lemon Squeezer and same sized Collars.
Note the Cap badge to Lemon Squeezer and same sized Collars.
The regiment was absorbed into the 9th (Wellington East Coast) Infantry Regiment in 1921 and became the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment in 1923. In 1941 the 2nd Battalion of the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment reformed into the 17th (Ruahine) Regiment and served with the 3rd New Zealand Division in the Pacific.
The Infantry Puggaree.
Above & Opposite: A puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat in the colours of the New Zealand Infantry. Khaki/Scarlet/Khaki. Marked to inside to 332213 Ramsey H.G. , with size in purple ink to "7 7/8".
Worn in from prior to WW1 and up to 1966 by the New Zealand Infantry, New Zealand Rifle Brigade, New Zealand Machine Gun Corps and New Zealand Pioneer Battalions. |
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- Opposite: A puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat in the colours of the Home Service branch of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force, worn from 1917. Khaki/Black/Khaki. Not marked and well worn/dirty.
The New Zealand Rifle Brigade
The New Zealand Rifle Brigade was formed in early 1915 as a desire to further contribute to New Zealand's current (at the time) War effort. It would be a whole new Regiment, with 4 battalions and associated reinforcements.
Nicknamed "The Dinks", they were disbanded on the 4th of Feb 1919 in the UK.
Nicknamed "The Dinks", they were disbanded on the 4th of Feb 1919 in the UK.
Opposite: A British made set of Cap Badge and/or Collar to the New Zealand Rifle Brigade. All maker plaqued to "J R Gaunt, London". They were issued with a painted black finish, which over the years has either usually polished off or worn. Note the wavy banner to top, which is associated with the 4 Ballation's badges worn overseas and in the field.
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- Above: A single, bronze Officers Collar Badge to the New Zealand Rifle Brigade. Maker plaqued to back to "J R Gaunt, London".
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- Opposite: Variations to the manufacture of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade Cap and/or Collar Badge. None are maker marked, but show differences in size, design of lion, banner and motto.
- Above: These are New Zealand made, and not maker marked to the NZRB. They were private purchase items, which the soldier could purchase and wear while training.
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(continued) Its the type also encountered in the center of their Reinforcement badges. Note the straight banner. Lots of variation in Lion, tail etc...
- Above: Both badges are the sand cast types to the NZRB, possible made in the Middle East as the troops arrived initially in Egypt, before then moving on to the UK, France and the Western Front. |
- Above: Black bone buttons to the New Zealand Rifle Brigade.
- Top Left: A fixed shank 23mm NZRB Button - maker marked to "Firmin & Sons LD, Halesowen". - Top Right: A fixed shank 23mm NZRB Button - maker marked to "Grove & Sons LD, Halesowen". - Bottom: A fixed shank 17mm NZRB Button - maker marked to "Firmin & Sons LD, Halesowen". |
- Above: When stocks were not available of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade Button, British Rifle Brigade buttons were worn.
- Top Left: A fixed shank 23mm British Rifle Brigade Button - maker marked to "Firmin & Sons LD, Halesowen". - Top Right: A fixed shank 23mm British Rifle Brigade Button (note the "RB" to front)- No maker mark. - Bottom: A fixed shank 16mm British Rifle Brigade Button - No maker mark. |
- Above: Darkened brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Rifle Brigade.
- Left: A pair of "J R Gaunt, London" maker marked shoulder titles. Hex type lugs to back. - Right Top: A maker marked shoulder title to "Tiptaft B'ham". Looped lugs to back - Right Bottom: A maker marked shoulder title to "Stokes & Sons". This Australian made title has looped lugs to back and stippling between the letters at the front, which is a feature of this manufacturer. |
- Above: More examples of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade shoulder titles.
- Top: A hand cut, straight example, possibly Officers, but may also be private purchase in New Zealand. - Below: Just showing variations. in make, size and shape. The bottom title is cast brass. |
New Zealand Mounted Rifle Regiments
Like their Infantry counterparts, the New Zealand Mounted Rifle Regiments were all formed in 1911, mainly from pre-existing Volunteer Mounted Rifle units. Unlike the Infantry, very few survived passed WW2, just due to changes in warfare and technology. New Zealand Mounted Rifle units, play a significant role in the Middle East, while the Otago Mounted Rifle Regiments fought on the Western Front during WW1 as Infantry.
1st (Canterbury) Mounted Rifles.
Cap and Collar badges to the 1st (Canterbury) Mounted Rifles.
- Top Row: Gaunt plaqued set of Cap and collar. Note the center top of the "Y", with its continuous bar across the top. A design feature of Gaunt made badges.
- Bottom Row Left: Locally made New Zealand example, note they top of the "Y" has a space in the middle.
- Bottom Row Middle: Bronze, semi-solid Officers collar, impressed with the details for J R Gaunt.
- Bottom Row Right: A semi-solid gilt fired version with J R Gaunt of London impressed to back.
The 1st (Canterbury) Mounted Rifles amalgamated with the 8th (South Canterbury) Mounted Rifles in 1921, and the Regiments title was changed to the 1st New Zealand Mounted Rifles (Canterbury Yeomanry Cavalry). The Regiment was then absorbed into the 3rd Armoured Regiment in March 1944.
- Top Row: Gaunt plaqued set of Cap and collar. Note the center top of the "Y", with its continuous bar across the top. A design feature of Gaunt made badges.
- Bottom Row Left: Locally made New Zealand example, note they top of the "Y" has a space in the middle.
- Bottom Row Middle: Bronze, semi-solid Officers collar, impressed with the details for J R Gaunt.
- Bottom Row Right: A semi-solid gilt fired version with J R Gaunt of London impressed to back.
The 1st (Canterbury) Mounted Rifles amalgamated with the 8th (South Canterbury) Mounted Rifles in 1921, and the Regiments title was changed to the 1st New Zealand Mounted Rifles (Canterbury Yeomanry Cavalry). The Regiment was then absorbed into the 3rd Armoured Regiment in March 1944.
2nd (Wellington, West Coast) Mounted Rifles.
The badges of the 2nd Queen Alexandra's (Wellington, West Coast) Mounted Rifles.
They where worn as both Cap and/or Collar Badge.
The badge is still worn today, and there is some variation in both composition and design. Today's version also now has Collar sized badges.
- Top Center: A darkened WW1 Bronze version of the Cap badge for a Officer, with tangs to back. Maker marked to back to "Bock, Wellington".
- Middle and Bottom Row: A Gaunt plaqued set in darkened brass.
They where worn as both Cap and/or Collar Badge.
The badge is still worn today, and there is some variation in both composition and design. Today's version also now has Collar sized badges.
- Top Center: A darkened WW1 Bronze version of the Cap badge for a Officer, with tangs to back. Maker marked to back to "Bock, Wellington".
- Middle and Bottom Row: A Gaunt plaqued set in darkened brass.
In 1921 the regiments title was changed to the 2nd New Zealand Mounted Rifles (Queen Alexandra's Wellington West Coast).
This was later altered to Queen Alexandra's (Wellington West Coast) Mounted Rifles.
They were absorbed into the 2nd Armoured Regiment in 1944.
- Opposite: A modern Cap and Collar badge set to Queen Alexandra's Squadron, Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps.
This was later altered to Queen Alexandra's (Wellington West Coast) Mounted Rifles.
They were absorbed into the 2nd Armoured Regiment in 1944.
- Opposite: A modern Cap and Collar badge set to Queen Alexandra's Squadron, Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps.
3rd (Auckland) Mounted Rifles.
Cap and Collar badges to the 3rd (Auckland) Mounted Rifles.
- Top Row: a Gaunt made Cap and Collar badge set in gilt brass.
- Bottom Left: A locally made gilt brass Cap badge to the 3rd. Apparently this was the first version, before the Gaunt produced ones were issued. It has a slider to back.
- Bottom Right: A darkened Bronze, semi solid collar badge for a Officer, made by J R Gaunt of London.
- Top Row: a Gaunt made Cap and Collar badge set in gilt brass.
- Bottom Left: A locally made gilt brass Cap badge to the 3rd. Apparently this was the first version, before the Gaunt produced ones were issued. It has a slider to back.
- Bottom Right: A darkened Bronze, semi solid collar badge for a Officer, made by J R Gaunt of London.
- Opposite: A rare, gilt fired cap badge to the 3rd (Auckland) Mounted Rifles. Superb detail to front, with a maker mark impressed to back to "J R Gaunt, London".
The Regiments title was changed in 1921 to the 3rd New Zealand Mounted Rifles (Auckland). This was then changed to the Auckland (East Coast) Mounted Rifles.
It was absorbed into the 1st Armoured Regiment in March 1944.
The Regiments title was changed in 1921 to the 3rd New Zealand Mounted Rifles (Auckland). This was then changed to the Auckland (East Coast) Mounted Rifles.
It was absorbed into the 1st Armoured Regiment in March 1944.
4th (Waikato) Mounted Rifles.
The 4th (Waikato) Mounted Rifles Cap and Collar badges.
- Top Row: A Officers Bronze set of Cap and Collar badges. All are semi-solid and impressed with the maker details of J R Gaunt. Note the Cap badge is tanged to back, while the Collars have lugs. One collar has three lugs, while the other has 2 at the base.
- Bottom Row: a Gilt brass Cap and Collar set, die stamped and made by J R Gaunt of London.
- Top Row: A Officers Bronze set of Cap and Collar badges. All are semi-solid and impressed with the maker details of J R Gaunt. Note the Cap badge is tanged to back, while the Collars have lugs. One collar has three lugs, while the other has 2 at the base.
- Bottom Row: a Gilt brass Cap and Collar set, die stamped and made by J R Gaunt of London.
A rare variation of the 4th (Waikato) Mounted Rifles Cap badge.
Issued with a hook to hold back the flap of a slouched hat, these are rare, and as mentioned with regards to the similar 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment hooked Cap badge, they came about prior to WW1 due to different Regiments adopting a wide range of Hats. At some stage the 4th (Waikato) Mounted Rifles adopted the slouch Hat, with the Cap Badge worn to the side, and the brim of the Hat worn up. The hook would have been used to hold the brim back.
Maker plaqued to J R Gaunt to back, and with a single screw post, nut and washer to back.
The Regiments title was changed in 1921 to the 4th New Zealand Mounted Rifles (Waikato). This was then changed to the Waikato Mounted Rifles.
It was absorbed into the 1st Armoured Regiment in March 1944.
Issued with a hook to hold back the flap of a slouched hat, these are rare, and as mentioned with regards to the similar 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment hooked Cap badge, they came about prior to WW1 due to different Regiments adopting a wide range of Hats. At some stage the 4th (Waikato) Mounted Rifles adopted the slouch Hat, with the Cap Badge worn to the side, and the brim of the Hat worn up. The hook would have been used to hold the brim back.
Maker plaqued to J R Gaunt to back, and with a single screw post, nut and washer to back.
The Regiments title was changed in 1921 to the 4th New Zealand Mounted Rifles (Waikato). This was then changed to the Waikato Mounted Rifles.
It was absorbed into the 1st Armoured Regiment in March 1944.
5th (Otago Hussars) Mounted Rifles.
Cap and Collar Badges to the 5th (Otago Hussars) Mounted Rifles.
- Top Row: Shows the difference between the 1st and 2nd Pattern of cap badges. The 1st pattern (on the left) is based on the design for the Volunteer period "1st Regt. Otago M.R." badge, with a rounded crown and fine leafed wreath. A scarce badge to find, with this example being darkened.
The 2nd pattern (on the right) has a more angular crown and broader leafed wreath.
Both are bi-metal, with white metal center and gilt brass wreath. Both are made by J R Gaunt of London.
- Bottom Row: A pair of Gilt Brass and White Metal collars to the 5th. Both are J R Gaunt of London made.
- Top Row: Shows the difference between the 1st and 2nd Pattern of cap badges. The 1st pattern (on the left) is based on the design for the Volunteer period "1st Regt. Otago M.R." badge, with a rounded crown and fine leafed wreath. A scarce badge to find, with this example being darkened.
The 2nd pattern (on the right) has a more angular crown and broader leafed wreath.
Both are bi-metal, with white metal center and gilt brass wreath. Both are made by J R Gaunt of London.
- Bottom Row: A pair of Gilt Brass and White Metal collars to the 5th. Both are J R Gaunt of London made.
Variations on the 5th NZMR badges.
- Top Center: A all brass version of the Cap badge. This has had a darkened finish applied
- Bottom Row: A pair of darkened Bronze Officers Collar badges, made by J R Gaunt of London. Again, single piece only.
In 1921, it was amalgamated with the 7th (Southland) Mounted Rifles and 12th (Otago) Mounted Rifles to become the 5th New Zealand Mounted Rifles (Otago).
This was then changed to the 5th New Zealand Mounted Rifles (Otago Hussars) in August 1923.
It became the Otago Mounted Rifles in 1927.
It was absorbed into the 3rd Armoured Regiment in March 1944.
- Top Center: A all brass version of the Cap badge. This has had a darkened finish applied
- Bottom Row: A pair of darkened Bronze Officers Collar badges, made by J R Gaunt of London. Again, single piece only.
In 1921, it was amalgamated with the 7th (Southland) Mounted Rifles and 12th (Otago) Mounted Rifles to become the 5th New Zealand Mounted Rifles (Otago).
This was then changed to the 5th New Zealand Mounted Rifles (Otago Hussars) in August 1923.
It became the Otago Mounted Rifles in 1927.
It was absorbed into the 3rd Armoured Regiment in March 1944.
6th (Manawatu) Mounted Rifles.
Cap and Collar badges to the 6th (Manawatu) Mounted Rifles.
- Top Left: Officers Bronze Cap badge with tangs to back. Made by J R Gaunt of London.
- Top Right and Bottom Row: Gilt brass Cap and collar set to the 6th. Now a dark tone. All have J R Gaunt of London plaque to back.
The Regiments title was changed in 1921 to the 6th New Zealand Mounted Rifles (Manawatu). This was then changed to the Manawatu Mounted Rifles.
It was absorbed into the 2nd Armoured Regiment in March 1944.
- Top Left: Officers Bronze Cap badge with tangs to back. Made by J R Gaunt of London.
- Top Right and Bottom Row: Gilt brass Cap and collar set to the 6th. Now a dark tone. All have J R Gaunt of London plaque to back.
The Regiments title was changed in 1921 to the 6th New Zealand Mounted Rifles (Manawatu). This was then changed to the Manawatu Mounted Rifles.
It was absorbed into the 2nd Armoured Regiment in March 1944.
7th (Southland) Mounted Rifles.
Cap and collar badges to the 7th (Southland) Mounted Rifles.
- Top Row: A bronze Officers Cap and collar badge. The Cap is marked to J R Gaunt to back and has tangs. The collar is unmarked.
- Bottom Row: A Gaunt plaqued Cap and collar set to the 7th in Gilt brass finish. Note the Cap badge is very similar in size to the right collar. Caution needs to be taken when purchasing, especially if you think you are buying a Cap and its turns out to be a Collar Badge.
- Top Row: A bronze Officers Cap and collar badge. The Cap is marked to J R Gaunt to back and has tangs. The collar is unmarked.
- Bottom Row: A Gaunt plaqued Cap and collar set to the 7th in Gilt brass finish. Note the Cap badge is very similar in size to the right collar. Caution needs to be taken when purchasing, especially if you think you are buying a Cap and its turns out to be a Collar Badge.
Variation to the 7th badges. This is a locally New Zealand made set, and has a non-void part to base of badge. All have copper wire loops to back.
The Regiment amalgamated with the 5th Mounted Rifles (Otago Hussars and 12th (Otago) Mounted Rifles in 1921 to become the 5th New Zealand Mounted Rifles (Otago).
The Regiment amalgamated with the 5th Mounted Rifles (Otago Hussars and 12th (Otago) Mounted Rifles in 1921 to become the 5th New Zealand Mounted Rifles (Otago).
8th (South Canterbury) Mounted Rifles.
A darkened Bronze set of Officers Cap and Collar badges to the 8th (South Canterbury) Mounted Rifles. All are semi-solid and impressed with the maker details of J R Gaunt of London.
The Cap badge has tangs to back, which the Collar badges have D shaped copper lugs.
The Cap badge has tangs to back, which the Collar badges have D shaped copper lugs.
- Top Row: A scarce large version of the gilt brass Cap badge. The below version is the standard size. The large version has makers plaque of J R Gaunt to back. Not often seen and unsure why these were made.
- Bottom Row: Gilt brass Cap and collar badges to the 8th. Note the Cap has had a subduing paint applied over the gilt finish. All have J R Gaunt plaque to back.
The 8th (South Canterbury) Mounted Rifles amalgamated with the 1st (Canterbury) Mounted Rifles in 1921, and the Regiments title was changed to the 1st New Zealand Mounted Rifles (Canterbury Yeomanry Cavalry).
- Bottom Row: Gilt brass Cap and collar badges to the 8th. Note the Cap has had a subduing paint applied over the gilt finish. All have J R Gaunt plaque to back.
The 8th (South Canterbury) Mounted Rifles amalgamated with the 1st (Canterbury) Mounted Rifles in 1921, and the Regiments title was changed to the 1st New Zealand Mounted Rifles (Canterbury Yeomanry Cavalry).
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- Above, Right and Opposite: A chance find by my Dad in the 1980's in a local Timaru, New Zealand household auction sale.
A 1918 dated, British made, wear-home hat to a Trooper in the 8th (South Canterbury) Mounted Rifles (it came in a kit-bag, with bandolier and corded MR breaches).
Note the unit patch to both sides of the Puggaree (cloth band in Khaki/Green/Khaki - Colours for the New Zealand Mounted Rifles). All NZ Mounted Rifle units were allowed from 1917, to wear a unit distinguish patch to their hat.
This Black and White patterned patch is to the 8th.
Maker marked to inside to "Hall & Phillips Ltd, Army Contractors, Nuneaton, 1918.
A 1918 dated, British made, wear-home hat to a Trooper in the 8th (South Canterbury) Mounted Rifles (it came in a kit-bag, with bandolier and corded MR breaches).
Note the unit patch to both sides of the Puggaree (cloth band in Khaki/Green/Khaki - Colours for the New Zealand Mounted Rifles). All NZ Mounted Rifle units were allowed from 1917, to wear a unit distinguish patch to their hat.
This Black and White patterned patch is to the 8th.
Maker marked to inside to "Hall & Phillips Ltd, Army Contractors, Nuneaton, 1918.
9th (Wellington East Coast) Mounted Rifles Regiment.
A selection of Cap and Collar badges to the 9th (Wellington East Coast) Mounted Rifles Regiment.
- Top Row: Is a Gaunt plaqued set of gilt brass Cap and Collar badges. The design of this badge was also used in some Mounted Reinforcement badges during WW1.
- Bottom Row: A slider version with the maker mark of Firmn to back. Note the slightly larger proportions of the badge to the Gaunt type above.
- Top Row: Is a Gaunt plaqued set of gilt brass Cap and Collar badges. The design of this badge was also used in some Mounted Reinforcement badges during WW1.
- Bottom Row: A slider version with the maker mark of Firmn to back. Note the slightly larger proportions of the badge to the Gaunt type above.
- Opposite: A Officers set in Bronze to the 9th. The Cap has two blades or tangs fitted to back, while the Collars have D shaped looped lugs. All are darkened, but one collar has been polished, and its finish removed.
The Regiments title was changed in 1921 to the 7th New Zealand Mounted Rifles (Wellington East Coast). This was then changed to the Wellington East Coast Mounted Rifles.
It was absorbed into the 2nd Armoured Regiment in March 1944.
The Regiments title was changed in 1921 to the 7th New Zealand Mounted Rifles (Wellington East Coast). This was then changed to the Wellington East Coast Mounted Rifles.
It was absorbed into the 2nd Armoured Regiment in March 1944.
10th (Nelson) Mounted Rifles Regiment.
Cap and Collar badges to the 10th (Nelson) Mounted Rifles.
- Top Row: A Gaunt plaqued set to the 10th. Noted the right collar (when worn, so the stag facing the opposite direction as the Cap badge) is extremely hard to find. There are stories that only a few runs of this collar were made, and then the men took to wearing two left collars. Certainly I have examples of Cast Brass versions, maybe to locally fix the issue in Egypt and the middle East, which is where they were deployed in WW1.
- Bottom Row: A Officers bronze Cap badge with a darken finish and two blades or tangs to back.
The Regiments title was changed in 1921 to the 8th New Zealand Mounted Rifles (Nelson). This was then changed to the Nelson-Marlborough Mounted Rifles.
It was absorbed into the 3rd Armoured Regiment in March 1944.
- Top Row: A Gaunt plaqued set to the 10th. Noted the right collar (when worn, so the stag facing the opposite direction as the Cap badge) is extremely hard to find. There are stories that only a few runs of this collar were made, and then the men took to wearing two left collars. Certainly I have examples of Cast Brass versions, maybe to locally fix the issue in Egypt and the middle East, which is where they were deployed in WW1.
- Bottom Row: A Officers bronze Cap badge with a darken finish and two blades or tangs to back.
The Regiments title was changed in 1921 to the 8th New Zealand Mounted Rifles (Nelson). This was then changed to the Nelson-Marlborough Mounted Rifles.
It was absorbed into the 3rd Armoured Regiment in March 1944.
11th (North Auckland) Mounted Rifles Regiment.
Cap and Collar badges to the 11th (North Auckland) Mounted Rifles. The badge design is based on a Volunteer unit badge, worn by the then 3rd (Auckland) Mounted Rifles, which was of the same size.
- Top Row: A selection of Cap and collar badges to the 11th. Note the Cap and Collars are the same size and are produced by Gaunt and local NZ manufactures. You do get a slight variation in the Boer's head size to center of badge, and this top row highlights a left and right Collar with small Boers head, while a large type is to center.
- Middle Row: A selection of same sized Cap and Collars. Note the center badge has a subdued finish to the Boer and top banner.
- Bottom Row: Left - A gilt brass and Silver bordered Collar with the impressed details of J R Gaunt of London to back.
- Bottom Row: Right - A Cap or Collar in Sandcast Brass. This also has a impression of a Gaunt plaque to back. Possible manufactured in Egypt during WW1.
The Regiments title was changed in 1921 to the 9th New Zealand Mounted Rifles (North Auckalnd). This was then changed to the North Auckland Mounted Rifles.
It was absorbed into the 1st Armoured Regiment in March 1944.
- Top Row: A selection of Cap and collar badges to the 11th. Note the Cap and Collars are the same size and are produced by Gaunt and local NZ manufactures. You do get a slight variation in the Boer's head size to center of badge, and this top row highlights a left and right Collar with small Boers head, while a large type is to center.
- Middle Row: A selection of same sized Cap and Collars. Note the center badge has a subdued finish to the Boer and top banner.
- Bottom Row: Left - A gilt brass and Silver bordered Collar with the impressed details of J R Gaunt of London to back.
- Bottom Row: Right - A Cap or Collar in Sandcast Brass. This also has a impression of a Gaunt plaque to back. Possible manufactured in Egypt during WW1.
The Regiments title was changed in 1921 to the 9th New Zealand Mounted Rifles (North Auckalnd). This was then changed to the North Auckland Mounted Rifles.
It was absorbed into the 1st Armoured Regiment in March 1944.
12th (Otago) Mounted Rifles Regiment.
Cap and Collars to the 12th (Otago) Mounted Rifles.
- Top Row: J R Gaunt plaqued Cap and collars to the 12th in Gilt Brass.
- Bottom Row: A locally made Cap badge to the 12th. Note it has a non-void section to center of badge. Maybe for extra strength or just a time saving/cost measure.
- Top Row: J R Gaunt plaqued Cap and collars to the 12th in Gilt Brass.
- Bottom Row: A locally made Cap badge to the 12th. Note it has a non-void section to center of badge. Maybe for extra strength or just a time saving/cost measure.
- Opposite: A non-void Cap and collar set to the 12th. Again, locally made in New Zealand.
The Regiment amalgamated with the 5th Mounted Rifles (Otago Hussars and 7th (Southland) Mounted Rifles in 1921 to become the 5th New Zealand Mounted Rifles (Otago).
The Regiment amalgamated with the 5th Mounted Rifles (Otago Hussars and 7th (Southland) Mounted Rifles in 1921 to become the 5th New Zealand Mounted Rifles (Otago).
WW1 New Zealand Camel Corps.
The New Zealand Battalion of the Camel Corps formed in July of 1916, from men of the New Zealand Mounted Rifles. They operated in Egypt, the Sinai Desert and Jordan Valley during 1917 and 1918. This sandcast original badge is a extremely rare, and it wasn't until recently, that photographic evidence was found, showing this badge being actually worn at the time.
It has been repeatedly faked over the years, and great caution needs to be taken when purchasing. Most fakes, esp from the 1990's don't replicate the colour of the sandcast brass, i.e. are too bright or overly dull. Also, the cast, taken from a original badge, are just ever so slightly smaller in size to the original examples.
Current fakes seem to ether been too thick on the legs and/or get the back and lugs wrong.
It has been repeatedly faked over the years, and great caution needs to be taken when purchasing. Most fakes, esp from the 1990's don't replicate the colour of the sandcast brass, i.e. are too bright or overly dull. Also, the cast, taken from a original badge, are just ever so slightly smaller in size to the original examples.
Current fakes seem to ether been too thick on the legs and/or get the back and lugs wrong.
New Zealand Onwards Badge
The New Zealand Onwards badge could probably have its own book written on it. Its history is very complicated and dates pre-WW1 with its connection to the Royal Naval Ship HMS New Zealand. During the outbreak of WW1, the British Section of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force formed in England. For many years, people attributed a Oak leafed version of the Onwards badge to this very small force of about 200 men in 1914. Reality is, it probably is just a manufacturers variation, whereby the fern's fronds look more "oak leaf" like than fern.
- Top Row: Tow Cap badge, the Left with lugs and the Right with a slider with the "Oak Leaf" wreath or border. Both are in Brass.
- Bottom Row: What photographic evidence we do have of the "British Section: of the N.Z.E.F is that they wore a small badge on their Cap. More collar size in proportion. These three collars display the "Oak Leaf" fronds. The Left and middle collar are marked Tiptaft, London to back.
- Top Row: Tow Cap badge, the Left with lugs and the Right with a slider with the "Oak Leaf" wreath or border. Both are in Brass.
- Bottom Row: What photographic evidence we do have of the "British Section: of the N.Z.E.F is that they wore a small badge on their Cap. More collar size in proportion. These three collars display the "Oak Leaf" fronds. The Left and middle collar are marked Tiptaft, London to back.
Interwar, the Onwards badge continued to be produced, and again with some variation. The cap badge on the Left, shows a WW1 Expeditionary Force Cap badge, worn as a generic Reinforcement badge from the 34th Infantry Reinforcements and thereafter. The Cap badge on the right, is a early Onwards badge, but with a similar wide frame as its WW1 Reinforcement counterpart.
Here is a selection of darkened Bronze Officers Hat and collar badges.
- Top Left: A unmarked Bronze Officers Cap badge with blades or tangs to back.
- Top Right: A unmarked Bronze Officers Cap badge with slider.
- Bottom Row: A Pair of Officers Bronze Collar badges, unmarked and with looped lugs to back.
- Top Left: A unmarked Bronze Officers Cap badge with blades or tangs to back.
- Top Right: A unmarked Bronze Officers Cap badge with slider.
- Bottom Row: A Pair of Officers Bronze Collar badges, unmarked and with looped lugs to back.
A selection of brass and copper Onwards Cap badges. This is just a small sample of a large range of variations encountered with this badge.
- Top Left: A Gaunt plaqued Onwards badge. Hard to find, as this London based manufacturer didn't make many of these badges.
- Middle Top: A Mayer and Kean made example. They were based in Wellington, and to back of some of there badges are their initials of "M & K, W" and sometimes a year date, like "44" for 1944. This is found on the ends of the banner at the base of the badge, on the back.
- Top Right: A middle Eastern made, cast brass cap badge with ribbon like slider to back.
- Bottom Left: A darkened copper Cap badge with lugs
- Bottom Middle: Same again, but different style
- Bottom Right: Die Stamped brass cap badge with brass slider to back. It also has a reinforcing wire to back base of crown and tops of fern wreath border.
- Top Left: A Gaunt plaqued Onwards badge. Hard to find, as this London based manufacturer didn't make many of these badges.
- Middle Top: A Mayer and Kean made example. They were based in Wellington, and to back of some of there badges are their initials of "M & K, W" and sometimes a year date, like "44" for 1944. This is found on the ends of the banner at the base of the badge, on the back.
- Top Right: A middle Eastern made, cast brass cap badge with ribbon like slider to back.
- Bottom Left: A darkened copper Cap badge with lugs
- Bottom Middle: Same again, but different style
- Bottom Right: Die Stamped brass cap badge with brass slider to back. It also has a reinforcing wire to back base of crown and tops of fern wreath border.
Like the Cap badge, the Collar also has much variation in style and lugs used.
Here are 4 pairs of Collars.
- Far Left Pair: A rounded frame with D shaped copper looped lugs to back.
- Pair Second from the Left: Solid to back, and again with D shaped lugs
- Pair Second from the Right: Die Stamped gilt brass, with D shaped copper looped lugs
- Far Right: Die Stamped gilt brass, but with brass hex type flat lugs to back.
Here are 4 pairs of Collars.
- Far Left Pair: A rounded frame with D shaped copper looped lugs to back.
- Pair Second from the Left: Solid to back, and again with D shaped lugs
- Pair Second from the Right: Die Stamped gilt brass, with D shaped copper looped lugs
- Far Right: Die Stamped gilt brass, but with brass hex type flat lugs to back.
At some stage in the 1950's the New Zealand Army re-introduced the Onwards badge for Ceremonial occasions, to be worn on the Lemon-squeezer on a red puggaree (cloth hat band). This was to be worn by the Honor Guard, which meet visiting dignitaries and heads of state.
- Top Center: Initial Honor Guard badges post 1952 are actually King Crowned badges, which have had the crown removed and a Queens Crown soldered in place.
- Bottom Row: Two of the current styled Queens Crowned Cap badges in gilt metal. Solid backed, they come either with pins and clutch fasteners or with screw posts and nuts.
- Top Row, Either Side: A pair of matching Gilt metal Onwards collars. Pin and Clutch fastener fittings to back.
- Top Center: Initial Honor Guard badges post 1952 are actually King Crowned badges, which have had the crown removed and a Queens Crown soldered in place.
- Bottom Row: Two of the current styled Queens Crowned Cap badges in gilt metal. Solid backed, they come either with pins and clutch fasteners or with screw posts and nuts.
- Top Row, Either Side: A pair of matching Gilt metal Onwards collars. Pin and Clutch fastener fittings to back.
- Above: A New Zealand Officer Cadets Belt Buckle. This pattern was introduced in 1976, and re-introduced the Kings Crown Onwards Badge, which was "on loan" from the 2nd NZEF (1939 to 45) and J Force (1946/47). Maker marked to back to "Hobson & Sons (London) Ltd".
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- Above: A current version of the New Zealand Officer Cadets Belt Buckle. To center is a Queens crown Onwards badge. This slightly worn example has no maker mark.
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The New Zealand Regiment
The 1st Battalion of the New Zealand Regiment was formed on the 9th of Jan 1947.
- Left: A Officers gilt brass, enamel and Silver Cap badge. Multi pieced, with two long looped copper lugs to back. Maker marked to J R Gaunt of London.
- Right: A nicely struck, gilt brass Cap badge by J R Gaunt of London.
- Left: A Officers gilt brass, enamel and Silver Cap badge. Multi pieced, with two long looped copper lugs to back. Maker marked to J R Gaunt of London.
- Right: A nicely struck, gilt brass Cap badge by J R Gaunt of London.
Below are variation in style of Cap and Collar badges to the New Zealand Regiment.
- Below Top Row: Gilt fired brass, solid backed Cap and collar badges to the New Zealand Regiment. Small than the above type and different style. Note the Cap to top center, is the same as the right collar (when worn), except that it has much longer lugs to back.
- Below Bottom Row: Referred to as the 'rough strike" these Cap and Collars are die stamped brass, with gilt wash. Cap and right collar (when worn) are the same, i.e. no difference in lug length to back, unlike the above.
- Below Top Row: Gilt fired brass, solid backed Cap and collar badges to the New Zealand Regiment. Small than the above type and different style. Note the Cap to top center, is the same as the right collar (when worn), except that it has much longer lugs to back.
- Below Bottom Row: Referred to as the 'rough strike" these Cap and Collars are die stamped brass, with gilt wash. Cap and right collar (when worn) are the same, i.e. no difference in lug length to back, unlike the above.
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- Above Left: A gilt brass 19mm fixed shank button to the New Zealand Regiment, with Kings Crown. Maker marked to back to "Gaunt London".
- Above Right: A Silver toned anodised aluminium 17mm fixed shank button to the New Zealand Regiment, with Queens Crown. Maker marked to back to "Gaunt London". |
With change the of monarch in 1952, the New Zealand Regiment updated its badge with the Queens Crown.
- Top Left: Officers Gilt fired brass, with enamel and silver or silver plated Kiwi to center.
- Top Right: A silver anodised aluminium Other Ranks cap badge.
- Bottom Left: A silver plate and gilt brass Collar badge pair of Bayonets, worn by the Regiment. These are two piece and made by J R Gaunt of London.
- Bottom Right: A anodised aluminium pair of Bayonet Collars. Note that both types are opposing, with handles and tips of blade indicating which collar they should be worn on. These are two tone, single piece, with pins to back and held onto the uniform collar with a clutch.
- Top Left: Officers Gilt fired brass, with enamel and silver or silver plated Kiwi to center.
- Top Right: A silver anodised aluminium Other Ranks cap badge.
- Bottom Left: A silver plate and gilt brass Collar badge pair of Bayonets, worn by the Regiment. These are two piece and made by J R Gaunt of London.
- Bottom Right: A anodised aluminium pair of Bayonet Collars. Note that both types are opposing, with handles and tips of blade indicating which collar they should be worn on. These are two tone, single piece, with pins to back and held onto the uniform collar with a clutch.
In 1964, all existing Infantry Regiments became Battalions of the New Zealand Regiment, it was also the year that it was awarded the prefix "Royal" to its title. This meant the change of badge too.
- Top Left: A 2 piece, 4 tone, anodised aluminium Cap Badge to the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (RNZIR).
- Bottom Left: A pair of 2 piece anodised aluminium collars to the RNZIR. Note opposing Kiwi's. These collars are getting harder to find and are associated with New Zealand's service in Vietnam. They have pin fittings to back, and are very prone to breaking, so finding a complete opposing set is near impossible.
- Right: A Helmet Plate Badge in metal to the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment's Band. They wore these on Home Service Style British helmets. The badge has two lugs to back and is numbered.
- Top Left: A 2 piece, 4 tone, anodised aluminium Cap Badge to the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (RNZIR).
- Bottom Left: A pair of 2 piece anodised aluminium collars to the RNZIR. Note opposing Kiwi's. These collars are getting harder to find and are associated with New Zealand's service in Vietnam. They have pin fittings to back, and are very prone to breaking, so finding a complete opposing set is near impossible.
- Right: A Helmet Plate Badge in metal to the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment's Band. They wore these on Home Service Style British helmets. The badge has two lugs to back and is numbered.
- Above: The current version of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment's Cap badge, but in bullion for Officers, to be worn on a Beret. No maker mark to back.
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- Above: The current version of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment's Cap badge in 2 piece metal, with enamel to center. No maker mark to back.
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Opposite are modern day buttons to the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment.
- Left: A silver toned, anodised aluminium 25mm fixed shank button to the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. Maker marked to back to "Gaunt London".
- Right: A silver toned, anodised aluminium 18mm fixed shank button to the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. Maker marked to back to "Gaunt London".
- Left: A silver toned, anodised aluminium 25mm fixed shank button to the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. Maker marked to back to "Gaunt London".
- Right: A silver toned, anodised aluminium 18mm fixed shank button to the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. Maker marked to back to "Gaunt London".
WW2 Home Guard Badges
During WW2, New Zealand looked to defend its shores against possible invasion from Japan. Many of the veterans from WW1 re-enlisted to do their bit again, but were by this stage in their 50's.
To old to be sent overseas, they instead formed the New Zealand National Military Reserve or local Home Guard Units.
- Opposite Top: Some of the old Soldiers had served in the New Zealand Rifle Brigade during WW1. So some of the Home Guard units adopted their old badge in WW2 as homage to their old unit. These two badges have a WW2 Onwards badge as a backing, which has had a NZRB Cap badge sweated to front. Just different strikes of NZRB to each (one with straight banner, and the other with wavy banner).
- Opposite Bottom: The New Zealand Home Guard Badge in two different versions, with and without bars to edge. Made by "M & K, W" or Mayer and Kean, Wellington.
To old to be sent overseas, they instead formed the New Zealand National Military Reserve or local Home Guard Units.
- Opposite Top: Some of the old Soldiers had served in the New Zealand Rifle Brigade during WW1. So some of the Home Guard units adopted their old badge in WW2 as homage to their old unit. These two badges have a WW2 Onwards badge as a backing, which has had a NZRB Cap badge sweated to front. Just different strikes of NZRB to each (one with straight banner, and the other with wavy banner).
- Opposite Bottom: The New Zealand Home Guard Badge in two different versions, with and without bars to edge. Made by "M & K, W" or Mayer and Kean, Wellington.
- Opposite: A darkened version of the New Zealand Home Guard Badge, again made by "M & K, W" or Mayer and Kean, Wellington. Marked to the back of the top bar.
Shoulder Titles.
New Zealand Forces have always worn a form of unit or national shoulder title, either in brass or cloth.
- Opposite: A Pair of darkened Bronze Officers shoulder titles. Not maker mark, but two D shaped looped copper lugs to each.
- Opposite: A Pair of darkened Bronze Officers shoulder titles. Not maker mark, but two D shaped looped copper lugs to each.
- Opposite Top: Early New Zealand gilt brass shoulder tiles worn by New Zealand Forces. Both are marked to back to "J R Gaunt, London", and have D shaped, copper looped lugs to back.
- Opposite Bottom: A rare pair of "Battalion" shoulder titles to the Auckland Battalion (made up of companies from the 3rd (Auckland), 6th (Hauraki), 15th (North Auckland), 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiments). These Battalion strength units made up the "Main Body" of men which left in October 1914. Titles to the NZ/Wellington, NZ/Canterbury and NZ/Otago Battalions also exist but are rare and command high prices.
In April 1916, New Zealand Overseas forces were greatly expanded after Gallipoli, for deployment in Egypt/Middle East and France/Belgium to Divisional strength.
- Opposite Bottom: A rare pair of "Battalion" shoulder titles to the Auckland Battalion (made up of companies from the 3rd (Auckland), 6th (Hauraki), 15th (North Auckland), 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiments). These Battalion strength units made up the "Main Body" of men which left in October 1914. Titles to the NZ/Wellington, NZ/Canterbury and NZ/Otago Battalions also exist but are rare and command high prices.
In April 1916, New Zealand Overseas forces were greatly expanded after Gallipoli, for deployment in Egypt/Middle East and France/Belgium to Divisional strength.
- Above: A Volunteer or Pre-WW1 pair of shoulder titles to the New Zealand Rifles. D shaped copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
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- Above: Again a Volunteer or Pre-WW1 selection of shoulder titles to the New Zealand Rifles. The top are a matching pair, while the bottom is slightly larger and different design. All have copper looped lugs to back and no maker mark.
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- Above: Three National titles in brass. Notably they have a large "dot" between the N and Z. Top left and bottom are maker marked to back to "Tiptaft Bham". Purpose unknown.
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- Above: A selection of "NZ" national titles. Top left has brass lugs, while bottom left is cast brass. Center has D shaped lugs to back, while the right pair have hex type brass lugs to back. Purpose unknown.
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Opposite is a selection of New Zealand Rifle shoulder titles, worn from WW1 and into the 1930's by the New Zealand Infantry Regiments.
- Top Pair: A gilt brass pair of shoulder titles to the New Zealand Rifles. Both have hex lugs to back and are maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London".
- Center: A brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Rifles. Made by "Stokes & Sons, Melb" to back. Looped lugs.
- Bottom Pair: A locally made NZ brass pair to the New Zealand Rifles. No maker mark, and wire lugs to back.
- Top Pair: A gilt brass pair of shoulder titles to the New Zealand Rifles. Both have hex lugs to back and are maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London".
- Center: A brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Rifles. Made by "Stokes & Sons, Melb" to back. Looped lugs.
- Bottom Pair: A locally made NZ brass pair to the New Zealand Rifles. No maker mark, and wire lugs to back.
- Opposite: A cropped or cut pair of titles made from possibly above "NZR" titles, but have had the R removed. One lug has also been re-attached to the back of the Z. Both have two hex type brass lugs to back. Purpose unknown.
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- Above Left: An early straight pair of gilt brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Mounted Rifles. Copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark.
- Above Right: An early two piece New Zealand Mounted Rifle Pair. All have hex type lugs to back.
- Above Right: An early two piece New Zealand Mounted Rifle Pair. All have hex type lugs to back.
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- Above Left: WW1 style New Zealand Mounted Rifle Shoulder titles. With the top in gilt brass maker marked to "Stokes & Sons, Melb", which has been stamped to back. The middle and bottom title are also "Stokes & Sons, Melb" but are in darkened brass, and have the mark mark in raised letters at back base of title.
- Above Right: WW1 style New Zealand Mounted Rifle Shoulder titles by "J R Gaunt, London". Both have D shaped copper looped lugs and are stamped with the maker mark.
- Above Right: WW1 style New Zealand Mounted Rifle Shoulder titles by "J R Gaunt, London". Both have D shaped copper looped lugs and are stamped with the maker mark.
From WW2, New Zealand overseas serving forces used a cloth National shoulder title. These were also worn in Japan (part of J-Force) and Korea.
- Above: A pair of early embroidered "slip-on" shoulder titles. These were designed to be worn over the shoulder strap of the battle dress, and literately "slipped-on". - Opposite: Three "sew-on" national shoulder titles, just showing slight variations in letter styles of New Zealand. |
(continued): Top and Middle: Though different widths, they are near matching, with a dark backing cloth.
Bottom: Has a black paper backing. |
- Above: A pair of sew-on National shoulder titles. These have a white cotton backing cloth.
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- Above Top: A large great coat National shoulder title?
- Above Bottom: A private purchase National slip-on shoulder title. New Zealand is in Silver Bullion thread. |
- Above: Another private purchase National slip-on shoulder title. New Zealand is in Silver Bullion thread. These were bought by Kiwi troops in Italy, to add a bit of "bling" to their uniforms. Sadly oxidised with age.
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- Above: A New Zealand Army issue Pacific theater of war national shoulder title. Black NZ letters printed on a light khaki material.
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- Above: As WW2 progressed, New Zealand experimented with ways of making the titles easier to produce. Above are three printed slip-on National shoulder titles. The top two are on a dark khaki ribbon. The bottom title has had its loop clipped off.
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- Above: New Zealand National shoulder titles in cast Brass. Not much information is available on these. David Corbett in his book "The Regimental Badges of New Zealand", has these displayed on the Home Service Branch of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force page, inferring that these were worn in NZ from 1916.
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- Opposite: Are a selection of Cloth and Embroidered lettered shoulder titles which were adopted by the New Zealand Army in the 1950's to be worn on both upper sleeves of the Tunic and Battle Dress. These continued to be worn until the 1980's by the various battalions of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (RNZIR), but were phased out or the Regiments themselves amalgamated or were disbanded.
New Zealand Forces Button.
The New Zealand Forces button was universally adopted in 1911 by all the newly created Infantry, Mounted Rifles and some Corps. The pattern is still used today in a anodised aluminium format by some Corps. This section covers some of the various makers of this widely used button:
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass, 25mm fixed shank button to the New Zealand Forces. This is maker marked to "Van Staveren, Wellington".
- Opposite Left: A gilt brass, 16mm fixed shank button to the New Zealand Forces. This is maker marked to "Van Staveren, Wellington".
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass, 25mm fixed shank button to the New Zealand Forces. This is maker marked to "Van Staveren, Wellington".
- Opposite Left: A gilt brass, 16mm fixed shank button to the New Zealand Forces. This is maker marked to "Van Staveren, Wellington".
During WW2, Bakelite (a early form of plastic) was used for buttons in New Zealand to conserve the use of Brass for other areas of War production. These appear to have only been worn in New Zealand and not overseas by active service soldiers.
- Opposite Left: A Bakelite, single piece (with integrated hole to back for sewing onto a tunic) in 24mm diameter. No maker mark.
- Opposite Right: A Bakelite, single piece in 17mm diameter. No maker mark.
- Opposite Left: A Bakelite, single piece (with integrated hole to back for sewing onto a tunic) in 24mm diameter. No maker mark.
- Opposite Right: A Bakelite, single piece in 17mm diameter. No maker mark.
- Opposite Left: A gilt brass, fixed shank 25mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "Stokes & Sons, Melbourne".
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass, fixed shank 16mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "Stokes & Sons, Melbourne".
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass, fixed shank 16mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "Stokes & Sons, Melbourne".
- Opposite Left: A gilt brass, fixed shank 25mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "Buttons Limited Birmingham".
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass, fixed shank 17mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "Buttons Limited Bham".
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass, fixed shank 17mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "Buttons Limited Bham".
- Opposite Top Left: A gilt brass, flexible shank 24mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "Woolley & Co (Birmingham) Ltd".
- Opposite Top Right: A chromed, flexible shank 24mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "Woolley & Co (Birmingham) Ltd".
- Opposite Bottom Left: A gilt brass, flexible shank 17mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "Woolley & Co (Birm) Ltd". Note no border around edge.
- Opposite Bottom Right: A gilt brass, flexible shank 17mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "Woolley & Co (Birm) Ltd". Note with border around edge.
- Opposite Top Right: A chromed, flexible shank 24mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "Woolley & Co (Birmingham) Ltd".
- Opposite Bottom Left: A gilt brass, flexible shank 17mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "Woolley & Co (Birm) Ltd". Note no border around edge.
- Opposite Bottom Right: A gilt brass, flexible shank 17mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "Woolley & Co (Birm) Ltd". Note with border around edge.
- Opposite: A gilt brass, flexible shank 17mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "Wm Dowler & Sons Ltd, Birm". Not yet seen a large 25mm version of this makers button.
- Opposite Left: A gilt brass, flexible shank, 23mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to "J W Tiptaft & Son Ltd, Birmingham".
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass, fixed shank 25mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "E Arnfield & Co Ltd, Birmingham".
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass, fixed shank 25mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "E Arnfield & Co Ltd, Birmingham".
- Opposite Left: A gilt brass, fixed shank 17mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "Arnfield Ltd Birmingham".
- Opposite Middle: A gilt brass, flexible shank 24mm button to the New Zealand Forces. No maker mark.
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass, fixed shank 17mm button to the New Zealand Forces. No maker mark.
- Opposite Middle: A gilt brass, flexible shank 24mm button to the New Zealand Forces. No maker mark.
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass, fixed shank 17mm button to the New Zealand Forces. No maker mark.
- Opposite: J R Gaunt was by far the largest producer of New Zealand Forces buttons, they came in either fixed or flexible shank.
- Top Row Left: A 25 mm, Gilt brass, fixed shank button with maker mark of "J. R. Gaunt & Son, London".
- Top Row Middle: A 25 mm, Gilt brass, flexible shank button with maker mark of "J. R. Gaunt & Son Ltd, London".
- Top Row Right: A 17 mm, Gilt brass, fixed shank button with maker mark of "J. R. Gaunt & Son Ltd, London".
- Bottom Row Left: A 17 mm, Gilt brass, fixed shank button with maker mark of "J. R. Gaunt & Son Ltd, London, Engd". The shank is in the horizontal position to back in relation to words to front.
- Bottom Row Middle: A 17 mm, Gilt brass, fixed shank button with maker mark of "J. R. Gaunt & Son Ltd, London, Engd". The shank is in the vertical position to back in relation to words to front.
- Bottom Row Right: A 17 mm, Gilt brass, fixed shank button with maker mark of "J. R. Gaunt & Son Ltd, London, Engd" in different font style to back. The shank is in the horizontal position to back in relation to words to front.
- Top Row Left: A 25 mm, Gilt brass, fixed shank button with maker mark of "J. R. Gaunt & Son, London".
- Top Row Middle: A 25 mm, Gilt brass, flexible shank button with maker mark of "J. R. Gaunt & Son Ltd, London".
- Top Row Right: A 17 mm, Gilt brass, fixed shank button with maker mark of "J. R. Gaunt & Son Ltd, London".
- Bottom Row Left: A 17 mm, Gilt brass, fixed shank button with maker mark of "J. R. Gaunt & Son Ltd, London, Engd". The shank is in the horizontal position to back in relation to words to front.
- Bottom Row Middle: A 17 mm, Gilt brass, fixed shank button with maker mark of "J. R. Gaunt & Son Ltd, London, Engd". The shank is in the vertical position to back in relation to words to front.
- Bottom Row Right: A 17 mm, Gilt brass, fixed shank button with maker mark of "J. R. Gaunt & Son Ltd, London, Engd" in different font style to back. The shank is in the horizontal position to back in relation to words to front.
Two later styled New Zealand Forces buttons
- Opposite Left: A gilt brass New Zealand Forces button in 25mm, with the maker mark of "J R Gaunt & Son, London", in large letters to back.
- Opposite Right: A silver toned, anodised aluminium (with brass backing), 25.5 mm New Zealand Forces button. Maker mark of "Gaunt, London", in large letters to back.
Possible Other Makers
- There has been talk of "A Levy, Wellington" making New Zealand Forces buttons around WW1, but I have yet to see one.
- I have seen "Woollen Co, Wellington" marked New Zealand Forces buttons, but do not have one to show.
- Opposite Left: A gilt brass New Zealand Forces button in 25mm, with the maker mark of "J R Gaunt & Son, London", in large letters to back.
- Opposite Right: A silver toned, anodised aluminium (with brass backing), 25.5 mm New Zealand Forces button. Maker mark of "Gaunt, London", in large letters to back.
Possible Other Makers
- There has been talk of "A Levy, Wellington" making New Zealand Forces buttons around WW1, but I have yet to see one.
- I have seen "Woollen Co, Wellington" marked New Zealand Forces buttons, but do not have one to show.
New Zealand Puggaree Colours.
Above is a chart of the colour bands or Puggaree's worn around the New Zealand Army's Lemon Squeezer or Slouch hat. These colours were adopted and evolved from 1911, until 1966, when the system was dropped. It was then re-introduced in 1994, but on a much limited scale.
The Puggaree is in the form of three bands of cloth, and vary in size, according to hat size. All were issued unmarked and undated. Usually they have a purple ink size (in inches), stamped on the inside of their hessian cloth backing. Sometimes a Soldier will mark it with his name or Service number.
There are as follows:
1. Khaki/Red/Khaki - Introduced 1912 and worn by the New Zealand Infantry, New Zealand Rifle Brigade, New Zealand Machine Gun Corps, New Zealand Pioneer Battalions.
2. Khaki/Green/Khaki - Introduced 1912 and worn by the New Zealand Mounted Rifles, Unposted Territorial Force Cadets and New Zealand Cycle Corps. Reintroduced in 1994 to be worn by Queen Alexandra's Mounted Rifles - RNZAC
3. Blue/Red/Blue - Introduced 1912 and worn by the New Zealand Artillery - RNZA and NZA.
4. Khaki/Dark Blue/Khaki - Introduced 1912 and worn by the New Zealand Engineers and New Zealand Corps of Signals (1st Pattern).
5. Khaki/Light Blue/Khaki - Introduced 1923 and worn by the New Zealand Corps of Signals (2nd Pattern).
6. Khaki/White/Light Blue/Khaki - Introduced 1935 and worn by the New Zealand Corps of Signals (3rd Pattern).
7. Light Blue/Dark Blue/Light Blue - Introduced 1939 and worn by the New Zealand Corps of Signals (4th Pattern).
8. Khaki/Maroon/Khaki - Introduced 1912 and worn by the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps.
9. Red/Dark Blue/Red - Introduced 1923 and worn by the New Zealand Ordnance Corps.
10. Black/Black/Black - Worn by unposted Regular Force Cadets, and in 1941 adopted by the New Zealand Armoured Corps.
11. Black/Khaki/Khaki/Black - Introduced in 1917 and worn by the New Zealand Chaplains Department (1st Pattern).
12. Purple/Purple/Purple - Introduced in the 1950's and worn by the New Zealand Chaplains Department (2nd Pattern).
13. Khaki/White/Khaki - Introduced in 1912 and worn by the New Zealand Army Service Corps.
14. Khaki/Yellow/Khaki - Introduced in 1923 (on paper only - research has shown that the Corps possibly had zero personnel, and it wasn't until WW2 that members were issued their Puggaree) and worn by the New Zealand Army Pay Corps.
15. Khaki/Cherry Red/Khaki - Introduced in 1912 and worn by the New Zealand Medical Corps.
16. Red/Red/Red - Introduced in 1912 and worn by a number of Units, New Zealand Permanent Staff, Coronation Contingent (1953), New Zealand Honor Guard (from 1977).
17. Red/Green/Red - Worn by the New Zealand Electrical & Mechanical Engineers (1st Pattern).
18. Dark Blue/Yellow (thin)/Red - Worn by the New Zealand Electrical & Mechanical Engineers (2nd Pattern).
19. Green/Green/Green - Introduced in 1941 and worn by New Zealand War Correspondents.
20. White/White/White - Introduced in 1915 and worn by New Zealand Officer Cadet Training Units, also worn in 1941 by Home Guard Traffic Control Units in 1942.
21. Green/Khaki/Green - Worn by the New Zealand Dental Corps (1st Pattern).
22. Dark Blue/Peacock Green/Dark Blue - Worn by the New Zealand Dental Corps (2nd Pattern).
23. Khaki/Black/Khaki - Introduced in 1917 and worn by the Home Service personnel of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force.
24. Dark Blue/Light Blue/Dark Blue - Worn by the New Zealand Education Corps.
25. Blue/Blue/Blue - Worn by the New Zealand Provost Corps.
26. Light Blue/White/Light Blue - Introduced in 1918 and worn by the Y.M.C.A (1st Pattern).
27. Black/White/Black - Introduced in 1941 and worn by the Y.M.C.A (2nd Pattern).
28. Red/Khaki/Red - Worn by NZ Senior Cadet Officers - 1911 to 1921, Training Cadets at Threntham Camp from 1927, Unposted Regular Service Recruits from 1932 until 1950 and troops stationed on Fanning Island during WW2.
29. Khaki/Khaki/Khaki - Initially worn by the New Zealand Rifle Brigade, before they then adopted the Infantry coloured Puggaree of Khaki/Red/Khaki. Worn also by Regular Force Cadets from 1949, with black diamond patches to either side.
The Puggaree is in the form of three bands of cloth, and vary in size, according to hat size. All were issued unmarked and undated. Usually they have a purple ink size (in inches), stamped on the inside of their hessian cloth backing. Sometimes a Soldier will mark it with his name or Service number.
There are as follows:
1. Khaki/Red/Khaki - Introduced 1912 and worn by the New Zealand Infantry, New Zealand Rifle Brigade, New Zealand Machine Gun Corps, New Zealand Pioneer Battalions.
2. Khaki/Green/Khaki - Introduced 1912 and worn by the New Zealand Mounted Rifles, Unposted Territorial Force Cadets and New Zealand Cycle Corps. Reintroduced in 1994 to be worn by Queen Alexandra's Mounted Rifles - RNZAC
3. Blue/Red/Blue - Introduced 1912 and worn by the New Zealand Artillery - RNZA and NZA.
4. Khaki/Dark Blue/Khaki - Introduced 1912 and worn by the New Zealand Engineers and New Zealand Corps of Signals (1st Pattern).
5. Khaki/Light Blue/Khaki - Introduced 1923 and worn by the New Zealand Corps of Signals (2nd Pattern).
6. Khaki/White/Light Blue/Khaki - Introduced 1935 and worn by the New Zealand Corps of Signals (3rd Pattern).
7. Light Blue/Dark Blue/Light Blue - Introduced 1939 and worn by the New Zealand Corps of Signals (4th Pattern).
8. Khaki/Maroon/Khaki - Introduced 1912 and worn by the New Zealand Veterinarian Corps.
9. Red/Dark Blue/Red - Introduced 1923 and worn by the New Zealand Ordnance Corps.
10. Black/Black/Black - Worn by unposted Regular Force Cadets, and in 1941 adopted by the New Zealand Armoured Corps.
11. Black/Khaki/Khaki/Black - Introduced in 1917 and worn by the New Zealand Chaplains Department (1st Pattern).
12. Purple/Purple/Purple - Introduced in the 1950's and worn by the New Zealand Chaplains Department (2nd Pattern).
13. Khaki/White/Khaki - Introduced in 1912 and worn by the New Zealand Army Service Corps.
14. Khaki/Yellow/Khaki - Introduced in 1923 (on paper only - research has shown that the Corps possibly had zero personnel, and it wasn't until WW2 that members were issued their Puggaree) and worn by the New Zealand Army Pay Corps.
15. Khaki/Cherry Red/Khaki - Introduced in 1912 and worn by the New Zealand Medical Corps.
16. Red/Red/Red - Introduced in 1912 and worn by a number of Units, New Zealand Permanent Staff, Coronation Contingent (1953), New Zealand Honor Guard (from 1977).
17. Red/Green/Red - Worn by the New Zealand Electrical & Mechanical Engineers (1st Pattern).
18. Dark Blue/Yellow (thin)/Red - Worn by the New Zealand Electrical & Mechanical Engineers (2nd Pattern).
19. Green/Green/Green - Introduced in 1941 and worn by New Zealand War Correspondents.
20. White/White/White - Introduced in 1915 and worn by New Zealand Officer Cadet Training Units, also worn in 1941 by Home Guard Traffic Control Units in 1942.
21. Green/Khaki/Green - Worn by the New Zealand Dental Corps (1st Pattern).
22. Dark Blue/Peacock Green/Dark Blue - Worn by the New Zealand Dental Corps (2nd Pattern).
23. Khaki/Black/Khaki - Introduced in 1917 and worn by the Home Service personnel of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force.
24. Dark Blue/Light Blue/Dark Blue - Worn by the New Zealand Education Corps.
25. Blue/Blue/Blue - Worn by the New Zealand Provost Corps.
26. Light Blue/White/Light Blue - Introduced in 1918 and worn by the Y.M.C.A (1st Pattern).
27. Black/White/Black - Introduced in 1941 and worn by the Y.M.C.A (2nd Pattern).
28. Red/Khaki/Red - Worn by NZ Senior Cadet Officers - 1911 to 1921, Training Cadets at Threntham Camp from 1927, Unposted Regular Service Recruits from 1932 until 1950 and troops stationed on Fanning Island during WW2.
29. Khaki/Khaki/Khaki - Initially worn by the New Zealand Rifle Brigade, before they then adopted the Infantry coloured Puggaree of Khaki/Red/Khaki. Worn also by Regular Force Cadets from 1949, with black diamond patches to either side.