New Zealand Infantry Badges (Part 1)
Just prior to the beginning of WW1, New Zealand had an established, regular Army and Territorial organisation, 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 Districts.
Prior to 1911, under the Volunteer system, there were five Military Districts, but in 1911, the Nelson District was amalgamated with Canterbury.
Each district was to initially have 4 Territorial Infantry Regiments, and was given a "letter". These letters become important when discussing Reinforcement badges worn during WW1 while training.
The districts were as follows:
For administration purposes, New Zealand had been divided into four Army Districts.
Prior to 1911, under the Volunteer system, there were five Military Districts, but in 1911, the Nelson District was amalgamated with Canterbury.
Each district was to initially have 4 Territorial Infantry Regiments, and was given a "letter". These letters become important when discussing Reinforcement badges worn during WW1 while training.
The districts were as follows:
A - Auckland District - 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
B - Wellington District - 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
- 17th (Ruahine) Infantry Regiment - Formed April 1914
- Opposite: A map showing the two Military Districts for the North Island (Map taken from the 1910 AJHR H19a - page 7).
Infantry Regiments consisted of:
- 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment
- 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment
- 15th (North Auckland) Infantry Regiment
- 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment
B - Wellington District - 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
- 17th (Ruahine) Infantry Regiment - Formed April 1914
- Opposite: A map showing the two Military Districts for the North Island (Map taken from the 1910 AJHR H19a - page 7).
C - Canterbury District - 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
D - Otago Distict - 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
- Opposite: A map showing the two Military Districts for the South Island (Map taken from the 1910 AJHR H19a - page 7).
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
D - Otago Distict - 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
- Opposite: A map showing the two Military Districts for the South Island (Map taken from the 1910 AJHR H19a - page 7).
Prior to WW2, the Canterbury/Nelson and Otago Army Districts were amalgamated into the Southern Army District, to cover the whole of the South Island. The Auckland and Wellington Army Districts remained as is.
This section of the website will look at the huge variation of Cap and Collar badges worn by the 17 New Zealand Infantry Regiments from 1911 until now.
This section of the website will look at the huge variation of Cap and Collar badges worn by the 17 New Zealand Infantry Regiments from 1911 until now.
New Zealand Infantry Regiments
1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment.
Formed in 1911 (from the 1st North Canterbury Battalion).
Headquarters at Christchurch.
On the 30th of May 1911, the following designs were submitted for approval for the Regiment's badges:
Headquarters at Christchurch.
On the 30th of May 1911, the following designs were submitted for approval for the Regiment's badges:
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- Above: The Collar Badge - "Bird surmounting scrolls bearing the motto & words "1st Regiment Canterbury".
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ). |
- Above: The Cap badge was described as a "Bird (white crane) surrounded by oval bearing the words "1st Regiment New Zealand Infantry" flanked by fern fronds and surmounted by a crown. Motto "Ake Ake Kia Kaha" and words "Canterbury" on scroll at base". (Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Motto: AKE AKE KIA KAHA (Forever and ever be strong).
- Above: A bi-metal Officers Bronze and Silver (not marked as such to back) Cap badge to the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Two tangs or blades to back, which is semi-solid. Maker plaque to back to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 46mm by 34mm.
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- Above: A solid backed, gilt fired Officers 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. To looped lugs to back. Size 46mm by 34mm.
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- Above Right: An image if 6/15 2nd Lieutenant Stanley George Brister, here wearing likely a bronze a 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment darkened Cap badge to his lemon squeezer, and a pair of 1st opposing Collars. He was a main body man, leaving with the Regiment in Oct 1914 as a Private. He was awarded the Military Medal, which was gazetted on the 21st of Sept 1916. Its ribbon can be seen here, above his left pocket, along with his award of the Cross of St George, which is a Russian decoration (2nd Class), and who's ribbon is also on display (Gold & Black stripes). Stanley was also part of "B" Company, 35th Reinforcements on his 2nd embarkation from New Zealand (R24184930, Archives New Zealand).
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- Above Right: A Gaunt made and plaqued gilt brass and white metal Cap badge to the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment, with hook. In 1911 there was some indecision or direction on what Hat or Cap the newly formed New Zealand Army should wear. 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 a normal Cap badge. Size overall with hook is 56.5mm by 34mm.
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- Above: An image of Quartermaster Sergeant Phillips, wearing a Cap and Collar badge set to the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. No badge to his shoulder strap, but note the Quartermaster's star to above his Sergeant chevrons to sleeve (Auckland Library Heritage Collections 31-P4568).
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- Above Right: An possible image 6/2426 Private Harry Francis Hewson of the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Here a returned soldier, wearing his large NZ Returned Solders Association badge. Harry was discharged in August 1917, due to wounds received while on active service in France. He is wearing a set of 1st Cap and Collar badges, with a "1" over a curved "NZR". He also has his 1914/15 Star ribbon on the opposite side to his RSA badge. Harry left with the 5th Reinforcements in June 1915. Note his Lemon Squeezer has a metal vent hole to its side, which is usually an indication of a British made hat (Auckland Library Heritage Collections 31-H4315).
The following are two Field Service Post Cards (of five) written by 6/44 Lance Corporal William (Bill) Furneaux, who was a main body man, and served with the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment at Gallipoli and 1916/1917 in France.
The following are two Field Service Post Cards (of five) written by 6/44 Lance Corporal William (Bill) Furneaux, who was a main body man, and served with the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment at Gallipoli and 1916/1917 in France.
- Above & Opposite: The front and back of a Field Service Post Card written by 6/44 L/Cpl William Furneaux to a Miss A. P. Ritchie, c/o Forbes & Co, Lyttelton, Canterbury, New Zealand. Note the post mark of :HEADQUARTERS FIELD 12-AU-15, POST OFFICE N.Z. DIVISION". This possibly would have been the first chance Bill could write back after the Battle of Chunuk Bair which took place from the 8th of August with much NZ losses. Note the back, which was very restrictive, and only allowed the crossing out of sentences and a few words to convey back to the soldiers loved ones that they were alright. Bill has signed his name and dated it the "12/8/15".
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- Above & Opposite: A similar set of front and back images of a Field Service Post Card written by 6/44 L/Cpl William Furneaux to a Miss A. P. Ritchie, c/o Forbes & Co, Lyttelton, Canterbury, New Zealand. This has a post mark of "INFANTRY BRIGADE FIELD 21-OC-15, POST OFFICE N.Z. DIVISION".
Bill wrote three other cards like this, dated the 31st of Jan 1915, 25th of Feb 1915, and the 22nd of July 1915 all to Miss A. P. Ritchie. He was slightly wounded on duty on the 25th of July at Gallipoli, but remained there. On the 18th of June, 1916, he was wounded in the chest, in France, at Armentières. This caused him to be evacuated out to London, and eventually be classed as "unfit" at the bullet or shrapnel couldn't be removed, and remained in his chest. He returned to NZ and was discharged on the 28th of May 1917. |
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- Opposite: A pre-WW1 image of Bill Furneaux, here a member of No. 4 Company, New Zealand Garrison Artillery, which were based at Lyttelton, where Bill came from (image from the Auckland Cenotaph).
- Above: It turns out that Miss A. P. Ritchie was Bill's fiancé, and happily Annie and Bill tied the knot on the 17th of April 1918, in St Albans, Christchurch (Papers Past - Press, Volume LIV, Issue 16213, 16 May 1918, Page 1). |
- Above: A matching, opposing bi-metal pair of Collar badges to the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. White metal backing with a gilt brass banner. Two copper D shaped looped lugs to back, so likely Gaunt, but not marked. Size 29mm by 24.5mm.
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- Above: A pair of bi-metal Collar badges to the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Right when worn, both are impressed to back, with the left in small letters to "J R GAUNT LONDON" and the right to "J R GAUNT L'DON". Both have copper looped lugs. Size 29mm by 25mm.
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- Opposite: A solid backed, gilt fired Officers Cap badge to the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Impressed to back to "J R GAUNT LONDON", this is the Queens Crowned version, and is post 1952 to 1964. Extra long looped lugs to back. Size 47mm by 33.5mm.
- Above: 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. Size 29mm by 25mm. |
- Above Left: A bi-metal Collar badge to the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Wide flat, pressed type brass lugs to back, with sweat-holes to back of white metal frame. No maker mark and size 28mm by 25mm.
- Above Right: A all white metal version of the Collar. It could be its just lost the upper banner over-lay. No maker mark. Size 30mm by 26mm. |
- Above: A unusual collar size badge, which looks to have been cut from a Cap badge (but is missing the wreath). Purpose unknown. Two copper looped lugs to back. Size 26mm by 26mm.
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- Above Right: A WW1 era Canterbury Battalion, Machine Gun sleeve badge. Cast brass, within Fern leaves and a kings crown. This badge has no lugs, they have been clipped off. The date 1864 is the founding of the Canterbury Regiment in New Zealand. Size 43.5mm by 33mm.
During WW1 the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment contributed to the NZEF in the:
- Canterbury Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (1/CIR) - 1 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (2/CIR) - 1 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (3/CIR) - 1 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
- Canterbury Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (1/CIR) - 1 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (2/CIR) - 1 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (3/CIR) - 1 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
During WW2, the 1st contributed to the following overseas Battalions of the 2NZEF:
- 20th Battalion
- 23rd Battalion
- 26th Battalion
In August 1947 the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment was designated a Territorial Force (TF)
- Opposite: A pair of embroidered and felt cloth shoulder titles worn post 1961 to 1994 to elements of the Canterbury Regiment of the 2 RNZIR. Size 20mm by 125mm.
On the 1st of April 1964 it amalgamated with the Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast Regiment and became:
2 RNZIR – 2nd Battalion, (Canterbury, and Nelson-Marlborough and West Coast), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment.
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
- 20th Battalion
- 23rd Battalion
- 26th Battalion
In August 1947 the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment was designated a Territorial Force (TF)
- Opposite: A pair of embroidered and felt cloth shoulder titles worn post 1961 to 1994 to elements of the Canterbury Regiment of the 2 RNZIR. Size 20mm by 125mm.
On the 1st of April 1964 it amalgamated with the Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast Regiment and became:
2 RNZIR – 2nd Battalion, (Canterbury, and Nelson-Marlborough and West Coast), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment.
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regimental Band
The following needs a wee bit more pictorial evidence to firm up this theory.
In May, 1965, the recently entitled band of the 2nd Battalion, (Canterbury, and Nelson-Marlborough and West Coast), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (2 RNZIR) visited Nelson to play and parade to the Town and Mayor.
The below right photograph shows a member of the band holding a Sousaphone (part of the Tuba musical instrument family). To his white service helmet (with ball to top) is the below helmet plate.
In May, 1965, the recently entitled band of the 2nd Battalion, (Canterbury, and Nelson-Marlborough and West Coast), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (2 RNZIR) visited Nelson to play and parade to the Town and Mayor.
The below right photograph shows a member of the band holding a Sousaphone (part of the Tuba musical instrument family). To his white service helmet (with ball to top) is the below helmet plate.
- Above: A Band helmet plate to the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Not recorded in the books, and worn with the white Home Service helmet (see opposite).
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- Above: A band member of the 2nd Battalion, Royal NZ Infantry Regiment with his Sousaphone. Note the 1st (Cant) Infantry Regt Collar badge, and the opposite left Helmet plate to his Home Service Helmet (Nelson Museum 704_fr6).
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- Above: An enlargement of the photo, showing the distinctive "spiky" wreath on the helmet plate (Nelson Museum 704_fr6).
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- Above: This is then likely the Peaked Cap badge, for members of the Band to the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Bi-metal, it has two copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark. Size 47mm by 32mm.
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- Above: A later, post 1965 2nd Battalion, Royal NZ Infantry Regiment Bandsman's Helmet, with characteristic ball top, but this time with the RNZIR Bandsman's badge, which is an oversized version of the RNZIR Cap badge (image from the internet).
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- Above: A pair of modern, shiny, brass coloured, opposing collars to the 2nd Battalion (Canterbury, Nelson and Marlborough West Coast) Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. Note the middle banner with "2 CANT NMWC". Both have a pair of pins to back, to be used with clutches. No maker mark, and size 28mm by 24.5mm.
- Opposite: A collection of Company patches to the 2 Battalion, RNZIR which appeared in a auction catalogue in the early 00's, and shows the sleeve patch worn by each unit. I have overwritten the titles beneath each to make them clearer. Note they were introduced for wear on the 25th of Jan 1985. |
In March 2013, the Regiment was further merged with the 4th Battalion (Otago and Southland), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment to form:
2nd/4th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (2/4 RNZIR - see below for their Collar badge).
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (see above for Collar badge) with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ / Logistic Company – Christchurch
- Alpha Company – Greymouth
- Bravo Company – Christchurch
- Charlie Company - Timaru
- Delta Company – Nelson
- Support Company - Christchurch / Blenheim /Ashburton
2nd/4th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (2/4 RNZIR - see below for their Collar badge).
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (see above for Collar badge) with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ / Logistic Company – Christchurch
- Alpha Company – Greymouth
- Bravo Company – Christchurch
- Charlie Company - Timaru
- Delta Company – Nelson
- Support Company - Christchurch / Blenheim /Ashburton
2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment.
Formed in 1911, from the South Canterbury Battalion of Infantry, it became the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment.
Headquarters at Timaru.
Headquarters at Timaru.
Cap Badge - In 1911, their badge was described as a "Maltese cross with the words "South Canterbury Battalion NZ" in a circle surrounding a Kiwi".
Collar Badge - "Similar".
On the 20th of Dec 1911, the opposite drawing was submitted for approval to the General Officer Commanding (G.O.C), with the following:
"The Officer Commanding 2nd (South Canterbury) Regt. N.Z.I applies for permission to make the following alterations in the regimental badge approved on 8.7.11.
On a Maltese Cross a Kiwi within a garter inscribed 2nd (South Canterbury) Regt. N.Z.I. the cross surmounted by a crown and based on a scroll bearing the inscription Pro Patria.
It is proposed to use the complete design on the cap and the cross without the crown and scroll on the collar.
Samples of previous and proposed badges enclosed.
I have the honour to be, Sir, your obedient servant.
W. Stuart, Lieut-Col, Canterbury Military District"
Collar Badge - "Similar".
On the 20th of Dec 1911, the opposite drawing was submitted for approval to the General Officer Commanding (G.O.C), with the following:
"The Officer Commanding 2nd (South Canterbury) Regt. N.Z.I applies for permission to make the following alterations in the regimental badge approved on 8.7.11.
On a Maltese Cross a Kiwi within a garter inscribed 2nd (South Canterbury) Regt. N.Z.I. the cross surmounted by a crown and based on a scroll bearing the inscription Pro Patria.
It is proposed to use the complete design on the cap and the cross without the crown and scroll on the collar.
Samples of previous and proposed badges enclosed.
I have the honour to be, Sir, your obedient servant.
W. Stuart, Lieut-Col, Canterbury Military District"
The reply was as follows on the 6th of Jan 1912:
"The G.O.C approves of the words 2nd (S. Canterbury) Regiment being substituted for S. Canterbury Battalion N.Z.I. and thinks it an improvement as it is the proper name of the Regiment. He thinks the letters N.Z.I. superfluous. As regards the addition of the crown and scroll he thinks they (especially the crown) spoil the badge, which is now a particularly neat and soldierlike looking one. But if the Regiment is particularly keen to have it he has no objection to the scroll.
H. O. Knox, Lt-Col, Quartermaster General".
- Opposite: Another sketch of the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment's badge held by Archive NZ in the 1911 files. It shows the badge adopted by the regiment in 1898.
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Motto: PRO PATRIA (For our country).
There are many variations to the center of this badge both with the size of the Kiwi featured, and the ground upon which it stands.
Here are a few examples.
"The G.O.C approves of the words 2nd (S. Canterbury) Regiment being substituted for S. Canterbury Battalion N.Z.I. and thinks it an improvement as it is the proper name of the Regiment. He thinks the letters N.Z.I. superfluous. As regards the addition of the crown and scroll he thinks they (especially the crown) spoil the badge, which is now a particularly neat and soldierlike looking one. But if the Regiment is particularly keen to have it he has no objection to the scroll.
H. O. Knox, Lt-Col, Quartermaster General".
- Opposite: Another sketch of the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment's badge held by Archive NZ in the 1911 files. It shows the badge adopted by the regiment in 1898.
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Motto: PRO PATRIA (For our country).
There are many variations to the center of this badge both with the size of the Kiwi featured, and the ground upon which it stands.
Here are a few examples.
- Above: A bronze and silver (not marked), solid back Officers Cap badge to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Two tangs or blades to back and a impressed maker mark of "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 36mm by 33mm.
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- Above: A bronze and silver (not marked), solid back Officers Collar badge to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Two D-shaped pressed lugs to back and impressed with the maker details of "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 30mm by 30mm.
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- Above: A silver and gold, solid back sweethearts badge in the size of a Cap badge to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Brooch fitting to back with "STERLING" stamped to back base. Size 36mm by 32mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass and white metal Cap badge to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Large Kiwi to center, with copper looped lugs and a maker plaque to back (top) to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 36.5mm by 32mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass and white metal Cap badge to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Earlier type Kiwi to center (found on the South Canterbury Rifle Volunteer badges), with copper looped lugs and a maker plaque to back (bottom arm) to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 36mm by 32mm.
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- Above: A darkened brass and white metal Cap badge to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Thinner Kiwi to center, with copper looped lugs but no maker mark. Size 36.5mm by 31mm.
- Opposite: An image of Corporal 48180 Private James Aloysius Devons, here part of the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment with an unidentified British soldier (Guards Machine Gun Corps, note the pattern of Sergeants chevrons to sleeve. He has "MGC" over "1" to his shoulder board). Dated 1917- 1918, James is wearing a set of 2nd badges to his lemon squeezer and tunic. He has curved "NZR" titles to his shoulder boards (Te Papa PS.003454). |
- Above: A pair of gilt brass and white metal Collar badges to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Larger Kiwi to center, with copper D shaped looped lugs and maker mark of "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 30mm by 30mm.
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- Above: A pair of darkened brass and white metal Collar badges to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Larger Kiwi to center, with copper D shaped looped lugs and maker mark of "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 30mm by 30mm.
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- Above: A pair of gilt brass and white metal Collar badges to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Thinner Kiwi to center, with copper D shaped looped lugs but no maker mark. Size 30mm by 30mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass and white metal Collar badge (right when worn) to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Earlier type Kiwi to center (found on the South Canterbury Rifle Volunteer badges), with copper D shaped lugs and a maker plaque to back (bottom arm) to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 30mm by 30mm.
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- Above: A darkened all brass Collar badge to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Thinner Kiwi to center, with copper looped lugs (with feet) but no maker mark. Size 30mm by 30mm.
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- Above: A group photo, taken in France (it says 1916 to back) of Officers to the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Sadly not all are yet identified at this stage.
Front Row Left: 6/408 Captain Douglas Playfair Fraser, MID, sadly KIA on the 20th Sept 1916 on the Somme, France.
Back Row, 2nd from the Right: A possible ID of 6/478 William Moyse Hocking.
During WW1 the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment contributed to the NZEF in the:
- Canterbury Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (1/CIR) - 2 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (2/CIR) - 2 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (3/CIR) - 2 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
During WW2, the 1st contributed to the following overseas Battalions of the 2NZEF:
- 20th Battalion
- 23rd Battalion
- 26th Battalion
The 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment was absorbed into the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment in 1921.
Front Row Left: 6/408 Captain Douglas Playfair Fraser, MID, sadly KIA on the 20th Sept 1916 on the Somme, France.
Back Row, 2nd from the Right: A possible ID of 6/478 William Moyse Hocking.
During WW1 the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment contributed to the NZEF in the:
- Canterbury Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (1/CIR) - 2 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (2/CIR) - 2 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (3/CIR) - 2 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
During WW2, the 1st contributed to the following overseas Battalions of the 2NZEF:
- 20th Battalion
- 23rd Battalion
- 26th Battalion
The 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment was absorbed into the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment in 1921.
Re-issue of the 2nd (South Canterbury) Badge
In late 1938, the National Military Reserve (NMR) was formed.
It was a reserve force for the Territorial Army, which was to be called up in times of emergency.
They were issued and wore obsolete uniforms and webbing, but were also issued with badges which originated from 1911, yet, had been made obsolete due to amalgamations of Regiments after the Great War, in the 1920's.
In the Southern Military District (covering the whole of the South Island of New Zealand), the following NMR units wore the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment Cap badge from 1938 and into WW2:
- 3rd Battalion, Christchurch NMR
- 15th Coy, Nelson NMR
- 16th Coy, Blenheim & Picton NMR
- 18th Coy, Timaru NMR
In late 1938, the National Military Reserve (NMR) was formed.
It was a reserve force for the Territorial Army, which was to be called up in times of emergency.
They were issued and wore obsolete uniforms and webbing, but were also issued with badges which originated from 1911, yet, had been made obsolete due to amalgamations of Regiments after the Great War, in the 1920's.
In the Southern Military District (covering the whole of the South Island of New Zealand), the following NMR units wore the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment Cap badge from 1938 and into WW2:
- 3rd Battalion, Christchurch NMR
- 15th Coy, Nelson NMR
- 16th Coy, Blenheim & Picton NMR
- 18th Coy, Timaru NMR
- Above: An image of 8909 Pte. Claude D'Arcy Hatsell who enlisted in 1940 and saw service with the Supply Column of the NZASC, leaving with the 1st Echelon of the 2NZEF. He is wearing a 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment Cap badge to his Lemon Squeezer. This is likely due to him being part of the NMR prior to enlisting in the Regular Army.
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- Above: An image entitled "Hall, gp 3", which clearly shows two members of the Royal New Zealand Air Force (left and right) with a likely member of the NMR wearing a Cap and Collar badge set of the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. He also has, above his left tunic pocket, his medal ribbons from WW1 (BWM and Victory Medal). He also wears a P37 webbed belt (Nelson Museum collection 189179).
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3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment.
The 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment was formed in 1911 (from the 1st Battalion, Auckland Infantry (Countess of Ranfurly's Own).
Headquarters were at Auckland.
The city of Auckland and its surrounding province, got its name from the 1st Earl of Auckland, George Eden (1784 to 1849 - British Politician & Governor General of India (1836-42)).
Its Infantry Regiment took parts of the Eden family crest to form the design of its Cap badge.
On the 10th of July 1911, their badge was described as:
"Badge.- Mailed arm holding sheaf over motto "Sisit Prudentia" surrounded by circle bearing words “1st Battalion Auckland Infantry” and wreath is surmounted by a crown, and having words “New Zealand” on scroll at base.
Collar Badges.- Mailed arm and sheaf over motto and words “1st Battalion Auckland Infantry".
The G.O.C. approves these badges if word "Third" is substituted for "1st Battalion"".
A memo dated the 24th of Nov 1911, notes the "Motto "Sisit Prudentia" will be inserted under the 3rd (Auckland) Regiment ("Countess of Ranfurly's Own") in the next issue of the New Zealand Army List".
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
- Opposite: The Eden family crest at the time of the 1st Earl of Auckland, George Eden. Note the mailed Arm to top, with sheaf of wheat, and the family motto to base (image from the internet).
Motto: SISIT PRUDENTIA (Ever prudent).
Headquarters were at Auckland.
The city of Auckland and its surrounding province, got its name from the 1st Earl of Auckland, George Eden (1784 to 1849 - British Politician & Governor General of India (1836-42)).
Its Infantry Regiment took parts of the Eden family crest to form the design of its Cap badge.
On the 10th of July 1911, their badge was described as:
"Badge.- Mailed arm holding sheaf over motto "Sisit Prudentia" surrounded by circle bearing words “1st Battalion Auckland Infantry” and wreath is surmounted by a crown, and having words “New Zealand” on scroll at base.
Collar Badges.- Mailed arm and sheaf over motto and words “1st Battalion Auckland Infantry".
The G.O.C. approves these badges if word "Third" is substituted for "1st Battalion"".
A memo dated the 24th of Nov 1911, notes the "Motto "Sisit Prudentia" will be inserted under the 3rd (Auckland) Regiment ("Countess of Ranfurly's Own") in the next issue of the New Zealand Army List".
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
- Opposite: The Eden family crest at the time of the 1st Earl of Auckland, George Eden. Note the mailed Arm to top, with sheaf of wheat, and the family motto to base (image from the internet).
Motto: SISIT PRUDENTIA (Ever prudent).
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- Above: A darkened semi-solid, bronze Officers Cap badge to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. Two tangs or blades to back, with maker impressed mark to back to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 44.5mm by 38mm.
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- Above: 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. Size 32.5mm by 32mm.
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- Above: An image of 12/472 Lieutenant (later Lt-Colonel) Robert Tilsley, here a Officer in the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. He was awarded a DCM (the ribbon he is maybe wearing in the picture), as a Sergeant, and then later a MC and also MID during WW1. He served as a Captain and later rose to the rank of Lt-Colonel between 1920 and 1936. He then served during WW2 (service number 65661) on-board hospital ships. Robert wears a set of 3rd badges to his lemon squeezer and tunic. To his shoulder board is a curved brass "NZR" (© IWM HU 96745).
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- Above Right: An image of 12/2337 Captain Joseph Fleming Keith Hunter, here wearing a set of 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment badges to his slouch hat and tunic. I believe that he has a curved brass "NZR" title to his shoulder board. He was sadly killed in action on the 15th of Sept 1916 on the Somme (© IWM HU 116083).
- Above: A superb image of the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment Band in Rotorua on the 4th of Jan 1920. A mixture of peaked Caps and Lemon Squeezers worn by its members (Nigel Robson Collection).
- Above: A single piece, gilt brass Cap badge to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. No maker mark to back, and thick copper wire loops. Size 44mm by 39mm.
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- Above: A semi-solid gilt brass Cap badge to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. Thin wire looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Size 46mm by 38mm.
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- Above: A variation to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment Cap badge. Non-voided to center, with thin wire looped lugs to back. No maker mark. Size 46mm by 39mm.
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- Above: An image of 12/291 Corporal George Frederick Wilson who left New Zealand as part of the Main Body in Oct 1914. I presume this is a pre-WW1 photo of him wearing a set of gilt brass 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment Cap badge and Collars. He has a "3" over a curved "NZR" title to his shoulder boards. Note the generic British Forces buttons to his tunic with the Lion and Unicorn beneath a crown (Auckland Library Heritage Collections 31-W1371).
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- Above: An image of Sergeant Major Richardson, a member of the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. He wears a Cap badge and Collars to the 3rd, along with a set of cloth wound stripes to his left cuff. Note one is Red, while the other gold. Red indicates more than one other time wounded. So 3 or more times. On his right breast is a large NZ Returned Soldiers Association badge. It appears to have a backing ribbon attached. He has a curved "NZR" title to his shoulder boards (Auckland Library Heritage Collections 31-R3918).
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Sleeve Crowns
The following are just some examples of the large sleeve crown used by Company and Regimental Sergeant Majors (see picture above) and later, Warrant Officers 2nd Class. Its noted that not all wore the "large" crown, and there were smaller cloth and metal types used.
- Above: A large, padded sleeve crown, on khaki cloth, in thread. No backing or maker, and removed from a uniform. Size 45mm by 60mm.
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- Above: A variation to the large, padded sleeve crown, on khaki cloth, in thread. With hessian cloth backing, still no maker mark. Size 45mm by 45mm.
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- Above: A large, flat sleeve crown, on khaki cloth, in thread. No backing or maker. Size 51mm by 55mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. Non-void crown, and with brass Slider to back. No maker mark. Size 45mm by 43mm.
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- Above: A gilt fired Officers Cap badge to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. Solid to back, with looped lugs. Maker impressed to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Note the extra voiding to bottom center. Size 44.5mm by 43mm.
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- Above: A gilt fired Officers Cap badge to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. Semi-solid to back, with extra long lugs to back. No maker mark. Size 45mm by 43mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass, opposing pair of Collar badges to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. Both are maker marked to back of top banner ends to "M & K" and "W" for Mayer and Kean, Wellington. Two copper wire looped lugs to back of each. Size 33mm by 33mm.
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- Above: A pair of Collar badges to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. This is the type with "3rd (Auck) Regt NZ Infantry" in the base banner. Usually they have the full word Regiment. No maker mark to either, and wire looped lugs to the back of the above right collar. Size 31mm by 30.5mm.
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During WW1 the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment contributed to the NZEF in the:
- Auckland Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (1/AIR) - 3 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (2/AIR) - 3 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (3/AIR) - 3 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
In 1921 the Regiments title changed to the Auckland Regiment (Countess of Ranfurly's Own).
During WW2, the 3rd contributed to the following overseas Battalions of the 2NZEF:
- 18th Battalion
- 21st Battalion
- 24th Battalion
- Auckland Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (1/AIR) - 3 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (2/AIR) - 3 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (3/AIR) - 3 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
In 1921 the Regiments title changed to the Auckland Regiment (Countess of Ranfurly's Own).
During WW2, the 3rd contributed to the following overseas Battalions of the 2NZEF:
- 18th Battalion
- 21st Battalion
- 24th Battalion
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- Opposite & Above: A Queens crown gilt fired Officers Cap and Collar badge set to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. The Cap is solid to back, with extra long lugs, and maker impress to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Both Collars are also solid to back, and have two D shaped copper lugs each. No maker mark. Size of Cap is 45mm by 37.5mm, while Collars are 33mm by 31.5mm.
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- Above: A pair of embroidered and felt cloth shoulder titles worn post 1961 to 1994 to elements of the Auckland Regiment of the 3 RNZIR. Size 20mm by 128mm.
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- Above: A pair of shoulder boards which have been removed from a uniform. They are to the 3rd (Auckland) Infantry Regiment, with a brass "3" and a curved "NZR" (New Zealand Rifles) brass shoulder title (image from the internet).
In August 1947 the Auckland Regiment (Countess of Ranfurly's Own) was designated a Territorial Force (TF)
On the 1st of April 1964 it amalgamated with the North Auckland Regiment and became:
3 RNZIR – 3rd Battalion, (Auckland (Countess of Ranfurly's Own) and Northland), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
In March 2013, the Regiment was further merged with the 6th Battalion (Hauraki), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment to form:
3rd/6th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (3/6 RNZIR)
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ / Support / Logistic Company – Arch Hill - Auckland
- Alpha Company – Whangarei
- Bravo Company – Fort Cautley - Auckland
- Charlie Company – Arch Hill - Auckland
- Delta Company - Papakura
On the 1st of April 1964 it amalgamated with the North Auckland Regiment and became:
3 RNZIR – 3rd Battalion, (Auckland (Countess of Ranfurly's Own) and Northland), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
In March 2013, the Regiment was further merged with the 6th Battalion (Hauraki), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment to form:
3rd/6th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (3/6 RNZIR)
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ / Support / Logistic Company – Arch Hill - Auckland
- Alpha Company – Whangarei
- Bravo Company – Fort Cautley - Auckland
- Charlie Company – Arch Hill - Auckland
- Delta Company - Papakura
4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment.
Formed in 1911 from the 1st Battalion, Otago Rifles, it became the 4th Regiment (Otago Rifles).
Headquarters at Dunedin.
Headquarters at Dunedin.
- Opposite: A sketch of the proposed badge to the 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment held by Archive NZ.
Cap Badge - In 1911, their badge was described as a "A Kiwi flanked by fern fronds. Scroll at base bearing the words "4th Regiment N.Z.R"".
Collar Badge - "Smaller"
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
In 1911, the Regiments Band full dress uniformed was described as:
"Headdress - Dark blue helmet with brass mountings.
Blue forage cap with red band.
Tunic - Pleated cloth dark blue collar & cuffs.
Austrian knot on sleeves, shoulder straps piped white, seams of tunic piped white, shoulder epaulets trimmed white, side edges of back of tunic 6 buttons, 6 buttons down front.
Trousers - Blue cloth with 1/4 scarlet-welt side pockets"
(Cadets, Regimental Badges and Uniforms R21078962 Box 19 AD37 24 c1912 Archives N.Z.).
Motto: (none in the 1st NZEF - as noted in R17187868 AALI W3508 7291 Archives NZ)
Cap Badge - In 1911, their badge was described as a "A Kiwi flanked by fern fronds. Scroll at base bearing the words "4th Regiment N.Z.R"".
Collar Badge - "Smaller"
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
In 1911, the Regiments Band full dress uniformed was described as:
"Headdress - Dark blue helmet with brass mountings.
Blue forage cap with red band.
Tunic - Pleated cloth dark blue collar & cuffs.
Austrian knot on sleeves, shoulder straps piped white, seams of tunic piped white, shoulder epaulets trimmed white, side edges of back of tunic 6 buttons, 6 buttons down front.
Trousers - Blue cloth with 1/4 scarlet-welt side pockets"
(Cadets, Regimental Badges and Uniforms R21078962 Box 19 AD37 24 c1912 Archives N.Z.).
Motto: (none in the 1st NZEF - as noted in R17187868 AALI W3508 7291 Archives NZ)
- Above: A possible proto-type badge to the 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment. Gilt brass, with two short copper looped lugs to back in a East/West configuration, there is no maker mark (image from the internet).
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- Opposite & Above: This is the first pattern of badges worn by the 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment, from 1911 and during WW1. All brass, with short copper looped lugs to back. Note, not much difference in size between Collars and Cap. No maker mark. Size of Cap is 27mm by 34mm, while the Collars are 23mm by 30.5mm.
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- Above: A Collar badge to the 6th Regt, N.Z.R - it has been mentioned that this could be a Reinforcement Badge. Not often seen. Two copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark. Size 23mm by 30.5mm.
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- Above: A non-voided, Cap badge to the 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment in darkened brass. No maker mark, and with two short copper looped lugs to back.
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- Above: Non-voided, opposing collar badges to the 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment in brass. Again, no maker mark, and short copper looped lugs to back. Size 23mm by 30.5mm.
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- Above: A darkened Copper Cap badge to the 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment. No maker mark to back, with two small copper looped lugs to back. Size 27mm by 35mm.
- Opposite: An image of Private A Williams of the 4th (Otago Rifles) Infantry Regiment. He is wearing a Cap and Collar badge set to the 4th, with a "4" over "NZR" on his shoulder strap (Auckland Library Heritage Collections 31-W1344). |
- Above: A darkened Copper Cap badge to the 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment. No maker mark to back, and with a long brass slider. Size 26mm by 35mm.
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- Above: 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. Size 58mm by 69mm.
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During WW1 (possibly 1916 with its move to France), the Regiment changed its Cap and Collar design to the below:
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- Opposite and Above: A Cap and opposing Collar badges to the 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment. Gilt brass, with each having two D shaped, copper looped lugs to back. Each also has a maker plaque to back with "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size of Cap is 34mm by 41mm, while Collar badge size is 25mm by 31mm.
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- Opposite and Above: A Cap and opposing Collar badges to the 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment. Gilt brass, with round, copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark. Size of Cap is 34mm by 41mm, while Collar badge size is 25mm by 31mm.
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- Above: A superb image of 8/2614 Sgt Gilbert Hayton (DCM, MM), here wearing a set of 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment badges. He also has his DCM, MM and 1914/15 star medals attached to his tunic. He has ribbons for his BWM and Victory medal, which may not have been issued by this stage.
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- Above: A darkened collar badge to the 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment. Two D shaped looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Size is 25mm by 31mm.
- Opposite: (continued) A 4 year service chevron is to is right sleeve, and a wound stripe to his left. He has a curved "NZR" shoulder title, and to above his Sergeants chevron are the crossed flags of a signaler trade sleeve badge in metal. Gilbert also saw home service during WW2 (service number 824137 - Archive NZ R24184682). |
Above: An image of 4/2027 Captain Herbert Simmonds (MC), here of the 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment (he started out with the NZ Field Engineers). He is wearing a set of 4th Cap and Collar badges. Note the 3 year service chevrons to his right sleeve(© IWM HU 119079).
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- Opposite: An image of 8/2184 Lance Sergeant John Hugh Wilson (MM & Bar, MC), here a Officer Cadet, with a white band over his puggaree, and a "5" to center. He wears a pair of gilt brass 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment to his tunic Collar. John finished the war a 2nd Lieutenant, but went on to also serve in WW2 (service No. 822283 - Archive NZ R24184031).
During WW1 the 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment contributed to the NZEF in the: - Otago Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916 1st Battalion - Otago Infantry Regiment (1/OIR) - 4 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities. 2nd Battalion - Otago Infantry Regiment (2/OIR) - 4 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities. 3rd Battalion - Otago Infantry Regiment (3/OIR) - 4 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918. The 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment amalgamated with the 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment in 1921 to form the Otago Regiment. During WW2, the 4th contributed to the following overseas Battalions of the 2NZEF: - 20th Battalion - 23rd Battalion - 26th Battalion |
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In 1948 it merged again to form the Otago and Southland Regiment (their badges are shown further below).
By this stage it was designated a Territorial Force (TF)
On the 1st of April 1964 it became:
4 RNZIR – 4th Battalion, (Otago and Southland), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
By this stage it was designated a Territorial Force (TF)
On the 1st of April 1964 it became:
4 RNZIR – 4th Battalion, (Otago and Southland), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
In March 2013, the Regiment was further merged with the 2nd Battalion (Canterbury and Nelson-Marlborough and West Coast), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment to form:
2nd/4th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (2/4 RNZIR)
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ / Support 1 Company – Dunedin
- Alpha Company – Invercargill
- Bravo Company – Dunedin
- Mortar Platoon – Gore
- Reconnaissance Platoon – Alexandra
- Assault Pioneer Platoon – Oamaru
- Above: A pair of gilt metal Collar badge to the 2nd/4th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. These are NOT opposing, so two of the same are worn together. Two pins to back, in a North-east/South-west configuration to be used with clutches. No maker mark and size 30mm by 28mm.
2nd/4th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (2/4 RNZIR)
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ / Support 1 Company – Dunedin
- Alpha Company – Invercargill
- Bravo Company – Dunedin
- Mortar Platoon – Gore
- Reconnaissance Platoon – Alexandra
- Assault Pioneer Platoon – Oamaru
- Above: A pair of gilt metal Collar badge to the 2nd/4th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. These are NOT opposing, so two of the same are worn together. Two pins to back, in a North-east/South-west configuration to be used with clutches. No maker mark and size 30mm by 28mm.
5th (Wellington Rifles) Infantry Regiment
Formed in 1911 (from the 1st Battalion, Wellington Rifles).
Headquarters at Wellington.
Cap Badge - In 1911, their badge was described as a "Duke of Wellington's crest, i.e. Lion bearing pendant over Coronet. Motto "Virtutis Fortuna Comes" on scroll at base".
Collar Badge - Cap badge larger than Collar badge and omitting motto".
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
A 18th of May, 1912 memo states
"Mess Dress:
Mess jacket. Scarlet cloth, edged all round with white piping Roll collar, pointed cuffs 6 inches deep at the point and 2¾ inches behind, cloth shoulder straps, edged like the jacket, except where the facings are white. Small buttons down the jacket with button holes 6 - correspond
Mess Waistcoat. Blue, four buttons.
Collar Badges. The Duke of Wellington's Crest in gold embroidery, the flag in Silver within a gold edging, the cross scarlet.
The Roll collar to be of Blue. The shoulder straps of Blue.
The Cuffs of Blue."
(Cadets, Regimental Badges and Uniforms R21078962 Box 19 AD37 24 c1912 Archives N.Z.).
- Above Right: A image of the Duke of Wellingtons crest (image from the internet).
Motto: VIRTUTIS FORTUNA COMES (Good fortune is the companion of courage).
Headquarters at Wellington.
Cap Badge - In 1911, their badge was described as a "Duke of Wellington's crest, i.e. Lion bearing pendant over Coronet. Motto "Virtutis Fortuna Comes" on scroll at base".
Collar Badge - Cap badge larger than Collar badge and omitting motto".
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
A 18th of May, 1912 memo states
"Mess Dress:
Mess jacket. Scarlet cloth, edged all round with white piping Roll collar, pointed cuffs 6 inches deep at the point and 2¾ inches behind, cloth shoulder straps, edged like the jacket, except where the facings are white. Small buttons down the jacket with button holes 6 - correspond
Mess Waistcoat. Blue, four buttons.
Collar Badges. The Duke of Wellington's Crest in gold embroidery, the flag in Silver within a gold edging, the cross scarlet.
The Roll collar to be of Blue. The shoulder straps of Blue.
The Cuffs of Blue."
(Cadets, Regimental Badges and Uniforms R21078962 Box 19 AD37 24 c1912 Archives N.Z.).
- Above Right: A image of the Duke of Wellingtons crest (image from the internet).
Motto: VIRTUTIS FORTUNA COMES (Good fortune is the companion of courage).
At the outbreak of WW1, the 5th (Wellington Rifles) Infantry Regiment's members made up part of the Samoan Expeditionary Force, sent in August 1914 to capture German held island of Samoa. Upon its return in early 1915, many of its members re-enlisted, include forming parts of the 1st and 2nd Battalions of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade, who went on to see action in France.
- Opposite: A superb pre-war/early WW1 image of 14025 Capt. Daniel Cornelius Bowler MC. Daniel was involved with the New Zealand Cadet force prior to WW1 (he was a teacher by profession), and then as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Territorial Force of the 5th (Wellington Rifles) Infantry Regiment. He seems to have missed the call-up for the Samoan Expeditionary Force, and though pestering the Regimental Headquarters for a position, he eventually joined the 14th Reinforcements as a 2nd Lieutenant on the 10th of Jan 1916. He was a member of G Company (3rd Batt, NZRB), 14th Reinforcements on the 22nd of Feb 1916.
Daniel sailed on the SS Tahiti from New Zealand on the 26th of June 1916, and disembarked at Devonport on the 22 of Aug 1916.
After a small stint at Sling Camp, he proceeded overseas where he was assigned to D Company, 2/3rd New Zealand Rifle Brigade.
On the 11th of Jan 1917 he was promoted Lieutenant.
On the 2nd of March 1917, Daniel was awarded the Military Cross for gallantry and devotion to duty in the field:
"For conspicuous gallantry in action. He led a successful raid against the enemy with great gallantry, captured a large number of prisoners, and effected his withdrawal at a critical time with marked ability"
On the 31st of July 1917, he took over command of his company with the rank of Temporary Captain.
Wounded in the hand on the 14th of Aug 1917 (barbed wire).
Killed in action on the 12th of October 1917.
Remembered on the Tyne Cot Memorial, Tyne Cot Cemetery, Zonnebeke, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium.
His wife would later accept his Military Cross, in a private ceremony, held in New Zealand.
Note his Cap and collar badges, which were worn only by Officers. In 1923, the badge was adopted by all ranks of the regiment.
(Image taken from the Auckland Cenotaph)
- Opposite: A superb pre-war/early WW1 image of 14025 Capt. Daniel Cornelius Bowler MC. Daniel was involved with the New Zealand Cadet force prior to WW1 (he was a teacher by profession), and then as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Territorial Force of the 5th (Wellington Rifles) Infantry Regiment. He seems to have missed the call-up for the Samoan Expeditionary Force, and though pestering the Regimental Headquarters for a position, he eventually joined the 14th Reinforcements as a 2nd Lieutenant on the 10th of Jan 1916. He was a member of G Company (3rd Batt, NZRB), 14th Reinforcements on the 22nd of Feb 1916.
Daniel sailed on the SS Tahiti from New Zealand on the 26th of June 1916, and disembarked at Devonport on the 22 of Aug 1916.
After a small stint at Sling Camp, he proceeded overseas where he was assigned to D Company, 2/3rd New Zealand Rifle Brigade.
On the 11th of Jan 1917 he was promoted Lieutenant.
On the 2nd of March 1917, Daniel was awarded the Military Cross for gallantry and devotion to duty in the field:
"For conspicuous gallantry in action. He led a successful raid against the enemy with great gallantry, captured a large number of prisoners, and effected his withdrawal at a critical time with marked ability"
On the 31st of July 1917, he took over command of his company with the rank of Temporary Captain.
Wounded in the hand on the 14th of Aug 1917 (barbed wire).
Killed in action on the 12th of October 1917.
Remembered on the Tyne Cot Memorial, Tyne Cot Cemetery, Zonnebeke, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium.
His wife would later accept his Military Cross, in a private ceremony, held in New Zealand.
Note his Cap and collar badges, which were worn only by Officers. In 1923, the badge was adopted by all ranks of the regiment.
(Image taken from the Auckland Cenotaph)
- Above: A semi-solid gilt brass Officers Cap badge to the 5th (Wellington Rifles) Infantry Regiment. To back were three tangs, all of which have been cut off, and two wire loops crudely soldered to back. Maker impressed to back of upper lower center banner to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 41mm by 52mm.
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- Above: A semi-solid darkened brass Cap badge to an Officer in the 5th (Wellington Rifles) Infantry Regiment. To back are two out of three tangs, with the top tang behind the flag snapped off. Maker plaqued to back of lower banner to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 41mm by 52mm.
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- Opposite & Above: A semi-solid darkened bronze Cap and Collar badge set to a Officer in the 5th (Wellington Rifles) Infantry Regiment. To back, each badge has two tangs. Maker impressed to back of all to "FIRMIN LONDON". Cap size 41mm by 52mm, Collar size 34mm by 33mm.
Note the Collar badges were also worn by some Officers of the British Duke Of Wellington's Regiment (West Riding). |
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- Opposite & Above: Other Ranks Cap & Collar badges to 5th (Wellington Rifles) Infantry Regiment. Often referred to in the books as "1st Battalion badges" and certainly worn from 1911 to 1923. Both Cap and opposing Collars have 2 copper looped lugs to back in a North South configuration. All have a small plaque to back to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Cap size 47.5mm by 37.5mm, Collars 28mm by 23.5mm.
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The above 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 the peaked Cap.
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- Above: An Other Ranks Cap badge to 5th (Wellington Rifles) Infantry Regiment. Maker marked to back of pennant to "C. M. BAY" in raised letters. A rare badge, as nearly all of this type of the Regiments badges were made by Gaunt. Likely Cecil Montague Bay made these at the start of WW1, when there was high demand. There are no lugs to back of this badge, and doesn't appear to ever had.
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- Opposite: An image of the back top. of the pennant of the above badge, showing the "C. M. BAY" maker mark. Size of Cap badge, 47mm by 38mm.
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- Opposite & Above: A gilt brass other ranks Cap and Collar badge to the 5th (Wellington Rifle) Infantry Regiment. All are die stamped, with copper looped lugs to Cap, and D shaped copper looped lugs to Collars. No maker mark, but likely Gaunt.
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- Above: A gilt brass other ranks Cap badge to the 5th (Wellington Rifles) Infantry Regiment. Die stamped, with thick copper looped lugs to back. Maker marked to "M & K W" for Mayer & Kean Wellington. Size 42mm by 53mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass other ranks Cap badge to the 5th (Wellington Rifles) Infantry Regiment. Die stamped, with two short bolt threads to back, and large brass flanges. No maker mark.
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- Above Right: A possible image of 42783 Lt Bryan Nelson Vickerman. The image is dated 1940, in Wellington, and taken by Spencer Digby Studios. Bryan's service file is not yet online to confirm. He wears a Cap and Collar badge set to the 5th (Wellington Rifles) Infantry Regiment. If it is him, he also saw service with Jayforce (Japanese Occupation Force - Te Papa B.084576).
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- Opposite & Above: A gilt fired Officers Cap and Collar badge set to the 5th (Wellington Rifles) Infantry Regiment. The Cap badge is semi-solid, with long looped lugs to back. The Collars are die stamped, but have a very heavily gilt finish. All have no maker mark. Cap size 41mm by 53mm, Collar 35mm by 33.5mm.
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- Above: A pair of similar made Cap badges to the 5th (Wellington Rifles) Infantry Regiment. Both are die stamped, with pressed type brass lugs, more commonly seen on NZ badges in the 1940's/50's. One has a darkened finish, while the other is in gilt brass. Both have no maker mark.
- Above: A pair of early gilt fired Collar badges to the 5th (Wellington Rifles) Infantry Regiment. These are semi-solid to back, with D shaped copper looped in a North South configuration. They are not maker marked. I have yet to see a matching gilt fired Cap badge. Size 29mm by 23mm.
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- Above: A variation in the gilt brass Collar badge to the 5th (Wellington Rifles) Infantry Regiment. Note the finer detail and strike, which matches the Volunteer HP center, so pre-1911 or just a variation? Two brass looped lugs and no maker mark. Size 29mm by 25mm.
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- Above: A later chromed collar badge to the 5th (Wellington Rifles) Infantry Regiment. Possibly Regimental Band, which would have worn white metal or chromed insignia as a distinction. Two D shaped chromed lugs to back, with no maker mark.
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- Opposite: A rare WW1 era Band Cap badge to the 1st Battalion, Wellington Regiment. Made from die stamped, gilt brass, with two hex type brass lugs to back. No maker mark (Ian Hamilton Collection).
- Above: A single embroidered and felt cloth shoulder titles worn post 1961 to 1994 to elements of the Wellington Regiment of the 7 RNZIR. Size 20mm by 122mm. |
In 1921 the regiments title changed to the Wellington Regiment (City of Wellington's Own).
During WW2, the 5th contributed to the following overseas Battalions of the 2NZEF:
- 19th Battalion
- 22nd Battalion
- 25th Battalion
In August 1947 the Wellington Regiment (City of Wellington's Own) was designated a Territorial Force (TF)
On the 1st of April 1964 it merged with the Hawkes Bay Regiment and became:
7 RNZIR – 7th Battalion, (Wellington (City of Wellington's Own) and Hawke's Bay), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
In March 2013, the Regiment was further merged with the 5th Battalion (Wellington West Coast and Taranaki), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment to form:
5th/7th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (5/7 RNZIR)
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ/Logistics Company - Napier
- Alpha Company -Gisborne
- Bravo Company - Petone
- Charlie Company - Waipukurau
- Delta Company - Masterton
- Support Company - Trentham
During WW2, the 5th contributed to the following overseas Battalions of the 2NZEF:
- 19th Battalion
- 22nd Battalion
- 25th Battalion
In August 1947 the Wellington Regiment (City of Wellington's Own) was designated a Territorial Force (TF)
On the 1st of April 1964 it merged with the Hawkes Bay Regiment and became:
7 RNZIR – 7th Battalion, (Wellington (City of Wellington's Own) and Hawke's Bay), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
In March 2013, the Regiment was further merged with the 5th Battalion (Wellington West Coast and Taranaki), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment to form:
5th/7th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (5/7 RNZIR)
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ/Logistics Company - Napier
- Alpha Company -Gisborne
- Bravo Company - Petone
- Charlie Company - Waipukurau
- Delta Company - Masterton
- Support Company - Trentham
Fakes & Forgeries
Below is a fake or reproduction cap badge to the 1st type, 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment.
- Orangey-Yellow in colour, with some pitting to front, around stomach of Lion and crown and its base.
- To back is a mess, with a very large edge all the way round. Lacking in detail, which a die-stamped version would have.
- Two small copper lugs, soldered on, where as the originals have a different kind of braze, which does not turn black with time.
- Size 47.5mm by 37mm.
- Orangey-Yellow in colour, with some pitting to front, around stomach of Lion and crown and its base.
- To back is a mess, with a very large edge all the way round. Lacking in detail, which a die-stamped version would have.
- Two small copper lugs, soldered on, where as the originals have a different kind of braze, which does not turn black with time.
- Size 47.5mm by 37mm.
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Below is a fake or reproduction cap badge to the 2nd type, 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment.
- Orangey-Yellow in colour, with some pitting and material faults to front. Note the black oxidsed patches.
- To back is stippled, with holes, and a large flat area to base, where the excess brass has been filed down from the casting process. It lacks the detail, which a die-stamped version would have.
- Two small copper lugs, soldered on, where as the originals have a different kind of braze, which does not turn black with time.
- Size 40.5mm by 51.5mm.
- Orangey-Yellow in colour, with some pitting and material faults to front. Note the black oxidsed patches.
- To back is stippled, with holes, and a large flat area to base, where the excess brass has been filed down from the casting process. It lacks the detail, which a die-stamped version would have.
- Two small copper lugs, soldered on, where as the originals have a different kind of braze, which does not turn black with time.
- Size 40.5mm by 51.5mm.
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6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment
Formed in 1911 (from the 2nd Battalion, Auckland (Hauraki) Infantry).
Headquarters at Paeroa.
On the 10th of July 1911, their badge was described as "The badges in use are approved i.e. "Eight pointed star bearing lion and motto "Honi soit qui mal y pense" in a circle, also motto "Nulli secundus". Word "Hauraki" on scroll at base". Collar badges - smaller, omitting the word "Hauraki"".
On the 4th of April 1912, the NZ Army Quartermaster General approved a change to the badge motto, from "Nulli secundus" to "Whaka Tangata Kia Kaha"
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Motto: KIA KAHA (Be strong).
Also: HONI SOIT QUI MAL Y PENSE (Shame on him who thinks evil of it).
Also: WHAKA TANGATA KIA KAHA (as noted in R17187868 AALI W3508 7291 Archives NZ).
- Opposite: A image of 12/963 Lieutenant Frank Justin Adeane of the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. He is wearing a voided darkened bronze Cap badge to his peaked Cap, and a voided darkened bronze Collar badge on the collar of his Tunic. A gilt brass "NZR" title is to his shoulder boards (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-A3329).
Headquarters at Paeroa.
On the 10th of July 1911, their badge was described as "The badges in use are approved i.e. "Eight pointed star bearing lion and motto "Honi soit qui mal y pense" in a circle, also motto "Nulli secundus". Word "Hauraki" on scroll at base". Collar badges - smaller, omitting the word "Hauraki"".
On the 4th of April 1912, the NZ Army Quartermaster General approved a change to the badge motto, from "Nulli secundus" to "Whaka Tangata Kia Kaha"
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Motto: KIA KAHA (Be strong).
Also: HONI SOIT QUI MAL Y PENSE (Shame on him who thinks evil of it).
Also: WHAKA TANGATA KIA KAHA (as noted in R17187868 AALI W3508 7291 Archives NZ).
- Opposite: A image of 12/963 Lieutenant Frank Justin Adeane of the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. He is wearing a voided darkened bronze Cap badge to his peaked Cap, and a voided darkened bronze Collar badge on the collar of his Tunic. A gilt brass "NZR" title is to his shoulder boards (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-A3329).
- Above: A rare bi-metal, multi-piece Officers Cap badge to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. Possible silver, with certainly frosting still to back, but not marked. Two long tangs to back and with a makers plaque to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 40.5mm by 52.5mm.
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- Above: A pair of incomplete bi-metal collars to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. Note I am missing the gilt brass center piece on both of them. They are opposing, with the two Lion's facing inwards. They do also have part of the lower banner in raised letters to base of banner "KIA KAHA". Size 30mm by 27mm.
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- Opposite: A semi-solid, Officers Bronze Cap badge to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. Note the voiding to center, which seems to be a feature on Officers Cap badges (and also the Collars, though I have none to show) to this regiment. This example has had its tangs or blades removed, and a long brooch fitting attached. Maker impressed to back to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 40.5mm by 52mm.
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- Above: A gilt fired brass, Officers Cap badge to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. Semi-solid to back, with long looped lugs. No maker mark and size 40mm by 52mm.
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- Above: An image of 12/373 Captain (later Major) George Henry Holland, here wearing a set of gilt 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment badges to his lemon squeezer and tunic. He likely also has gilt brass "NZR" titles to his shoulder boards, which just can be seen in the picture. George rose through the ranks, serving at Gallipoli and the Western Front. He won the MC (he is wearing its ribbon to his tunic) and was also MID. Sadly he was killed in action on the 15th of May 1918 (© IWM HU 115787).
- Above: A pair of darkened copper Collar badges to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. Both have D shaped lugs to back, and one is more polished than the other. No maker mark, and note the Lion's are opposing to center. Size 31mm by 23mm.
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- Above: A pair of gilt fired brass Officers Collars badges (note the lions face in different directions to center) to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment.
Semi-solid to back, with D shaped lugs. No maker mark to either. Size 29.5mm by 23mm. |
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- Above: A pair of shoulder boards which have been removed from a uniform. They are to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment, with a NZ Forces, 4 Star button to top, a "6" and a curved "NZR" (New Zealand Rifles) brass shoulder title (image from the internet).
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- Above: An image of Sergeant Shearman of the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. He is wearing a gilt brass set of Cap and Collar badges to the 6th, with a "NZR" title to his shoulder board. Note the "LG" (Lewis Gun) pair of trade badges in brass, just above his Sergeant rank chevrons. He also has a "cage" cover over his wrist watch (to protect the glass) and 3 year overseas service chevrons to his right sleeve (Auckland Library Heritage Collections 31-S4661).
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- Above: An image of Captain Ward of the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. He is wearing a darkened bronze, voided set of Cap and Collar badges to the 6th with a 3 year overseas service chevrons to his right sleeve. Note the cuff ranks still being worn on a 1918-1919 dated photo. New Zealand Officers were permitted to wear cuff rank until their uniform needed replacing and some chose to wear it home (Auckland Library Heritage Collections 31-W4767).
- Above: A gilt brass, other ranks Cap badge to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. Maker plaqued to back base to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Two copper looped lugs, with size 40mm by 52mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass, other ranks Collar badge (left, when worn) to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. Maker plaqued to back top to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Two copper D shaped lugs, with size 29mm by 23mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass, other ranks Cap badge to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. Two wire looped lugs to back, and a marker mark, in raised letters to "M & K Ltd, Wgtn, NZ" for Mayer & Kean, Wellington, New Zealand, on the lower left of the banner back. Size 41mm by 51mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass, other ranks Cap badge to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. Two copper looped lugs (with feet) to back, but no maker mark. Size 42mm by 53mm.
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- Above: A pair of opposing gilt brass Collar badges to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. Die-stamped, with two D shaped copper looped lugs, these are not maker marked, but likely Gaunt. Size 29mm by 22.5mm.
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- Above: A slight variation in the Collar badge to the 6th. Note the elongated center rays of the star to top and bottom. They are opposing, with no maker mark to back. Two D shaped copper looped lugs and size 31mm by 23mm (the left is bent/curved)..
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- Opposite: A superb image from WW1, showing two soldiers of the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment, with gilt brass Cap badges to their peaked caps, and gilt brass Collars to their tunic. Note the 08 Pattern webbing they are wearing, with bayonets, likely 1888 Pattern, just by their pommel and also length (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-C0317).
- Above: A pair of embroidered and felt cloth shoulder titles worn post 1961 to 1994 to elements of the Hauraki Regiment of the 6 RNZIR. Size 20mm by 125mm. |
During WW1 the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment contributed to the NZEF in the:
- Auckland Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (1/AIR) - 6 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (2/AIR) - 6 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (3/AIR) - 6 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
In 1921 the regiments title was changed to 2nd Battalion, Auckland Regiment.
In 1923 the regiments title was again changed to the Hauraki Regiment.
During WW2, the 6th contributed to the following overseas Battalions of the 2NZEF:
- 18th Battalion - Briefly till the 5th October 1942.
- 21st Battalion
- 24th Battalion
- 29th Battalion
In August 1947 the Hauraki Regiment was designated a Territorial Force (TF)
On the 1st of April 1964 the Regiment became:
6 RNZIR – 6th Battalion, (Hauraki), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment.
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
- Auckland Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (1/AIR) - 6 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (2/AIR) - 6 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (3/AIR) - 6 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
In 1921 the regiments title was changed to 2nd Battalion, Auckland Regiment.
In 1923 the regiments title was again changed to the Hauraki Regiment.
During WW2, the 6th contributed to the following overseas Battalions of the 2NZEF:
- 18th Battalion - Briefly till the 5th October 1942.
- 21st Battalion
- 24th Battalion
- 29th Battalion
In August 1947 the Hauraki Regiment was designated a Territorial Force (TF)
On the 1st of April 1964 the Regiment became:
6 RNZIR – 6th Battalion, (Hauraki), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment.
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
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- Opposite & Above: A large painted chrome metal badge to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regimental Band. Semi-solid to back, with two looped lugs. Maker marked to "PAC" to lower banner. Size 60mm by 71mm.
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In March 2013, the Regiment was further merged with the 3rd Battalion (Auckland [Countess of Ranfurly's Own] and Northland), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment to form:
3rd/6th Battalion (Hauraki), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (3/6 RNZIR)
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ / Support/ Logistic Company – Tauranga (TGA)
- Alpha Company – Rotorua
- Bravo Company - Whakatane
- Charlie Company – Tokoroa
- Delta Company - Hamilton
Below are the modern version of the Hauraki Cap and Collar badge which are still worn today
3rd/6th Battalion (Hauraki), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (3/6 RNZIR)
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ / Support/ Logistic Company – Tauranga (TGA)
- Alpha Company – Rotorua
- Bravo Company - Whakatane
- Charlie Company – Tokoroa
- Delta Company - Hamilton
Below are the modern version of the Hauraki Cap and Collar badge which are still worn today
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- Opposite & Above: A gilt metal, semi-solid Cap and opposing Collars (note the lions face in different directions to center) to the 3rd/6th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. Pins to back of all, to be used with clutches, but no maker mark. Size of Cap is 40.5mm by 50.5mm, size of Collars is 27mm by 21mm.
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- Opposite & Above: A blackened metal, semi-solid Cap and opposing Collars to the 3rd/6th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. Pins to back of Collars, to be used with clutches, while the Cap has two thread posts to be used with nuts. No maker mark. Size of Cap is 40.5mm by 50.5mm, size of Collars is 28mm by 22mm.
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- Opposite: A grey coloured, metal, semi-solid Collars to the 3rd/6th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. Pins to back, to be used with clutches. No maker mark. Size of Collars is 27mm by 21mm.
7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment.
Cap and Collar badges to the 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment. Formed in 1911 (from the 2nd Battalion, Wellington (West Coast) Rifles).
Headquarters were at Whanganui.
Cap Badge - In 1911, their badge was described as a "Lion over Coronet with motto "Acer in armis" on scroll at base".
Collar Badge - "Similar"
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Motto: ACER IN ARMIS (Strong in Arms).
- Opposite: An Officers, semi-solid, darkened bronze Cap badge to the 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment. Two tangs or blades to back (both snapped off) in a North/South configuration, with a maker plaque added to center to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Under the bottom tang, to the back of the banner is also the impressed maker mark of "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 39mm by 33mm.
Headquarters were at Whanganui.
Cap Badge - In 1911, their badge was described as a "Lion over Coronet with motto "Acer in armis" on scroll at base".
Collar Badge - "Similar"
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Motto: ACER IN ARMIS (Strong in Arms).
- Opposite: An Officers, semi-solid, darkened bronze Cap badge to the 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment. Two tangs or blades to back (both snapped off) in a North/South configuration, with a maker plaque added to center to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Under the bottom tang, to the back of the banner is also the impressed maker mark of "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 39mm by 33mm.
- Above: An image of 11/1641 Lieutenant Cecil Bertrand Lockyer, here a officer in the 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment. Note the gilt brass Cap badge to his lemon squeezer (© IWM HU 124263).
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- Above: An image of 11795 Corporal Leslie Wilton Andrew VC, here wearing his medal ribbon and a gilt brass set of badges to the 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment (© IWM Q 70010).
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- Above: An image of 10/1171 Lieutenant Robert Davis Hardie, wearing a set of 7th badges. Note the Collar size badge to his peaked hat. A "NEW ZEALAND" curved brass shoulder title to his shoulder board. Taken in May 1918 by Elliott & Fry, London (© IWM HU 122862).
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11795 Corporal Leslie Wilton Andrew Victoria Cross: Awarded 6 September 1917. Citation: "On 31 July 1917 at La Bassee Ville, France, Corporal Andrew was in charge of a small party in an attack on the enemy's position. His objective was a machine-gun post which had been located in an isolated building, but on leading his men forward he encountered another machine-gun post which was holding up the advance of another company. He immediately attacked it, capturing the gun and killing several of the crew. He then continued with his attack on the original objective and finally captured the post, killing a number of the enemy and putting the remainder to flight."
- Above: A other ranks, darkened brass Cap badge to the 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment. Two D shaped copper looped lugs in a North/South configuration. Maker plaqued to center back to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 39mm by 33mm.
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- Above: A other ranks, gilt brass Cap badge to the 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment. Two looped copper lugs in a North/South configuration. No maker mark, and size 39mm by 33mm.
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- Above: A modified other ranks Cap badge to 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment. Banner has been removed, for unknown reason, and therefore resembles a 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment Cap badge. Two copper looped lugs to back in a North/South configuration. Plaque to back to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 45mm by 38mm.
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- Above: A single darkened bronze Officers Collar to the 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment. Left (when worn), it is semi-solid to back and impressed to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 29mm by 25mm.
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- Above: A pair of gilt brass Collar badges 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment. Two copper D shaped lugs in a North/South configuration, with makers plaque to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 28mm by 25mm.
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- Above: A pair of gilt brass Collar badges 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment. Two copper D shaped lugs in a North/South configuration, but no makers mark. Size 28mm by 25mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass Collar badge to the 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment (left when worn). Two copper looped lugs, but no maker mark. Size 27.5mm by 25mm.
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- Above: A sand cast Collar badge to the 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment (left when worn). Probably middle Eastern manufacture, around WW1. Two copper looped lugs, with size 27mm by 23mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass Collar badge to the 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment (right when worn). Brooch fitting to back, but no maker mark. Size 28mm by 24.5mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass Collar badge to the 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment (left when worn). Brooch fitting to back, but no maker mark. Size 28mm by 24.5mm.
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- Above: An image of 10/3809 2nd Lieutenant Alfred Cranstone Cowie, here wearing a set of 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment badges. Note they are all Collar size, and he wears his "collars" outward. Sadly Alfred was KIA'ed on the 2nd of Oct 1916, on the Somme, and is buried at Warlencourt British Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France (Archive NZ R24183996).
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- Above: An image of 38697 Pte Arthur Roy Henderson (MM), here wearing a set of 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment badges. To his shoulder board is a curved "NZR". Note also the slip-on coloured band, which was used in the UK to signify fitness of a soldier (Cat "B" men - blue, Cat "C" men - red) Arthur is likely wearing a red band to his shoulder board (Image copyright Archive NZ R24184458).
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- Above: A 24mm unknown blazer or livery button with the Duke of Wellington's coat of arms. Looks to have been silver plated in the past, on copper, which has worn/oxidised with time. Maker marked to "Firmin & Sons Ltd, 153 Strand, London".
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During WW1 the 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment contributed to the NZEF in the:
- Wellington Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (1/WIR) - 7 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (2/WIR) - 7 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (3/WIR) - 7 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
The regiments title changed in 1921 to 2nd Battalion, Wellington Regiment.
In 1923 it was changed again to the Wellington West Coast Regiment.
During WW2, the 7th contributed to the following overseas Battalions of the 2NZEF:
- 19th Battalion - Briefly till the 5th October 1942.
- 22nd Battalion
- 25th Battalion
- 36th Battalion
In 1948, the Wellington West Coast Regiment amalgamated with the Taranaki Regiment form the 7th/11th Wellington West Coast & Taranaki Regiment (its badges are further down).
By this stage it was designated a Territorial Force (TF)
On the 1st of April 1964 the Regiment became:
5 RNZIR – 5th Battalion, (Wellington West Coast and Taranaki), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
In March 2013, the Regiment was further merged with the 7th Battalion (Wellington [City of Wellington's Own], Hawkes Bay) , Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment to form:
5th/7th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (5/7 RNZIR)
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ / Support/ Logistic Company - Whanganui
- Alpha Company – New Plymouth
- Bravo Company - Hawera
- Charlie Company - Palmerston North
- Wellington Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (1/WIR) - 7 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (2/WIR) - 7 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (3/WIR) - 7 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
The regiments title changed in 1921 to 2nd Battalion, Wellington Regiment.
In 1923 it was changed again to the Wellington West Coast Regiment.
During WW2, the 7th contributed to the following overseas Battalions of the 2NZEF:
- 19th Battalion - Briefly till the 5th October 1942.
- 22nd Battalion
- 25th Battalion
- 36th Battalion
In 1948, the Wellington West Coast Regiment amalgamated with the Taranaki Regiment form the 7th/11th Wellington West Coast & Taranaki Regiment (its badges are further down).
By this stage it was designated a Territorial Force (TF)
On the 1st of April 1964 the Regiment became:
5 RNZIR – 5th Battalion, (Wellington West Coast and Taranaki), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
In March 2013, the Regiment was further merged with the 7th Battalion (Wellington [City of Wellington's Own], Hawkes Bay) , Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment to form:
5th/7th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (5/7 RNZIR)
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ / Support/ Logistic Company - Whanganui
- Alpha Company – New Plymouth
- Bravo Company - Hawera
- Charlie Company - Palmerston North
Fakes & Forgeries
Below is a fake or reproduction cap badge to the 7th (Wellington West Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment.
- Orangey-Yellow in colour, with some pitting to front, and lacking the sharpness in detail.
- To back is a mess, with pitting and stippling. Again, lacking the smooth reverse detail, which a die-stamped version would have.
- Two small copper lugs, soldered on, where as the originals have a different kind of braze, which does not turn black with time.
- Size 38mm by 33mm.
- Orangey-Yellow in colour, with some pitting to front, and lacking the sharpness in detail.
- To back is a mess, with pitting and stippling. Again, lacking the smooth reverse detail, which a die-stamped version would have.
- Two small copper lugs, soldered on, where as the originals have a different kind of braze, which does not turn black with time.
- Size 38mm by 33mm.
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8th (Southland Rifles) Infantry Regiment.
Formed in 1911 (from the 2nd Battalion, Otago Rifles).
Headquarters were at Invercargill.
Their badge was submitted for approval with designs on the 28th of July 1911.
Cap Badge - was described as a "Effigy of a Maori grasping a spear (Taiaha) and club (Mere). Motto "Kia Mate Toa" (Die Game) on a scroll below".
Collar Badge - "Cap and Collar badges similar".
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Motto: KIA MATE TOA (Die bravely).
- An image of 5/369 Corporal Leonard Hardcastle, here of the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment. He served 3 separate times during WW1, initially with the Samoan Advance Party, then as part of the 5th Reinforcements and NZASC (as a Driver, hence the 5/ service number) and finally as of the Otago Infantry Regiment, which the 8th were part of. Here he is wearing a pair of brass 8th Collars and a curved brass "NZR" title to his shoulder boards. On his sleeves are his Corporal rank chevrons along with a badge of appointment for Regimental Bomber (Grenade - Red on Khaki Colour - embroidered cloth). The lady sitting beside him has a sweethearts badge to the "V" of her white shirt, which looks like a bar brooch, but sadly cannot be identified (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-H4328).
Headquarters were at Invercargill.
Their badge was submitted for approval with designs on the 28th of July 1911.
Cap Badge - was described as a "Effigy of a Maori grasping a spear (Taiaha) and club (Mere). Motto "Kia Mate Toa" (Die Game) on a scroll below".
Collar Badge - "Cap and Collar badges similar".
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Motto: KIA MATE TOA (Die bravely).
- An image of 5/369 Corporal Leonard Hardcastle, here of the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment. He served 3 separate times during WW1, initially with the Samoan Advance Party, then as part of the 5th Reinforcements and NZASC (as a Driver, hence the 5/ service number) and finally as of the Otago Infantry Regiment, which the 8th were part of. Here he is wearing a pair of brass 8th Collars and a curved brass "NZR" title to his shoulder boards. On his sleeves are his Corporal rank chevrons along with a badge of appointment for Regimental Bomber (Grenade - Red on Khaki Colour - embroidered cloth). The lady sitting beside him has a sweethearts badge to the "V" of her white shirt, which looks like a bar brooch, but sadly cannot be identified (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-H4328).
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- Above: A two piece, gilt fired brass and enamel Cap and Collar badge set to the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment. These are very rare badges, and nearly never come up for sale, so it must have been a very short run of manufacture. Separate Taiaha or spear to each, with a solid back and two looped lugs in a North/South configuration. Maker impressed to "J R GAUNT LONDON" (image from the internet).
- Opposite: An image of 8/1406 Lieut-Colonel William Gibson Allan Bishop (MC, MID), here wearing what appears to be a gilt fired Collar badge, with base enamel banner, to the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment. William commenced his service in December 1914, and served throughout the war with the Otago Infantry Battalion, reaching the rank of Lieut-Colonel (Archive NZ collection R24184453). |
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- Opposite: A semi-solid bronze Cap badge with Silver Spear to the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment. A little toned and "polished", its difficult to distinguish the separately applied Taiaha (Spear in Maori) in Silver. The badge is impressed to back to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Note 2 feathers to head, and size 46mm by 25mm.
- Above: A opposing pair of bronze or bronzed Collar badges to the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment. Two D shaped copper lugs to the back of each. No maker mark, and again note 2 feathers to head. Size 38mm by 21mm. |
- Above: A Cap and opposing Collar badges set in gilt brass to the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment. All have a marker plaque to "J R GAUNT LONDON" to back and 2 feathers to head. D shaped looped lugs are in a North/South configuration. Size of Cap 46.5mm by 26mm, and Collars 38mm by 22mm.
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- Above: A darkened copper Cap badge to the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment. Most of the darkened finish has been polished off. Note the non-void area, maybe to prevent the spear from breaking. Two copper wire looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Size 47mm by 26mm.
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- Above: A Cap and opposing Collar badge set in darkened copper to the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regt. All three have thick copper looped wire lugs to back. With maker mark to front of "GW" for possibly George Whitehouse (1906 to 1969, a die sinker with Mayer & Kean of Wellington) to front, above the "TO" in TOA on the above left Collar, and above the "KI" in KIA on the Cap and above right collar. Note just 1 feather to head. Lugs are again in a North/South config to back. Size of Cap 47mm by 26mm, while Collars are 39mm by 21mm.
- Opposite Right: A closeup of the above left collar showing the location of the maker initials of "GW" to front (in the highlighted white circle), above the lower banner.
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- Above: An image of 8/2512 Sergeant Leonard Beaumont Rowe, here a member of the 6th Reinforcements. He served overseas with the 8th (Southland Rifles) Regiment, and here is wearing a pair of darkened Collar badges. Note the straight "NZR" brass shoulder title to his tunic. Image is dated 1915 (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-R0992).
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- Opposite and Above: The scarce "Spear Across the Body" type, possible to counter the issue of the spear tip catching and 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 NZ. Size of Cap 47mm by 26.5mm, while Collars are 38.5mm by 21mm.
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- Above: A tunic shoulder board to the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment. Note the early double Scarlet or Red cording to edge (colour of the NZ Infantry), which was a feature on pre-WW1 and early WW1 New Zealand uniforms A "NZ Forces", 4 Star button to top, with a "8" for the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment, and a curved brass "NZR" or New Zealand Rifles title to base. The shoulder board has had a different title in the past, with holes in the cloth to base, which due to its position would likely have been a earlier straight title (Lee Hawkes collection).
- Above: An image of 27471 Cpl George Davidson, here wearing a pair of Collar badges to the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment. They are the "spear across the body" type. George was part of "D" Company, 17th Reinforcements and spent 2 years and 235 days overseas in France and the western front (Iain Davidson collection).
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- Above: An image of 7/1315 Major William George Wray, here wearing a set of 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment Cap and Collars. William also served in the Anglo-Boer War, prior to his WW1 service (© IWM HU 127940).
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- Above: An image of 8/3465 2nd Lieutenant Edwin Simpson Andrews, here a member of the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment. He was made a 2nd Lt 23rd of Dec 1918. I believe he also has his service chevrons to his right sleeve (3 for 3 years and 243 days. Note the spear tip to his Cap badge appears to be missing, a common fault (© IWM HU 112871).
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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.
During WW1 the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment contributed to the NZEF in the:
- Otago Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Otago Infantry Regiment (1OIR) - 8 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Otago Infantry Regiment (2OIR) - 8 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Otago Infantry Regiment (3OIR) - 8 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
In 1921 the 8th merged with the 14th (South Otago) Infantry Regiment to form the 2nd Battalion, Otago Regiment.
In 1923 the regiments title changed again to the Southland Regiment.
During WW2, the 8th contributed to the following overseas Battalions of the 2NZEF:
- 20th Battalion - Briefly till the 5th October 1942.
- 23rd Battalion
- 26th Battalion
- 30th Battalion
- 37th Battalion
In 1948 the Otago Regiment and Southland Regiments merged to formed The Otago and Southland Regiment.
By this stage it was designated a Territorial Force (TF)
- Otago Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Otago Infantry Regiment (1OIR) - 8 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Otago Infantry Regiment (2OIR) - 8 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Otago Infantry Regiment (3OIR) - 8 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
In 1921 the 8th merged with the 14th (South Otago) Infantry Regiment to form the 2nd Battalion, Otago Regiment.
In 1923 the regiments title changed again to the Southland Regiment.
During WW2, the 8th contributed to the following overseas Battalions of the 2NZEF:
- 20th Battalion - Briefly till the 5th October 1942.
- 23rd Battalion
- 26th Battalion
- 30th Battalion
- 37th Battalion
In 1948 the Otago Regiment and Southland Regiments merged to formed The Otago and Southland Regiment.
By this stage it was designated a Territorial Force (TF)
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- Above: A Officers gilt fired Cap and Collar badge set 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. Cap badge has looped lugs, while the two collars have D shaped lugs. All have a raised maker mark of "J R GAUNT LONDON" to back. Size 36mm by 32mm.
- Above: the backs of the Officers gilt fired Cap and Collar badge set to The Otago and Southland Regiment. Note the center Cap badge has long lugs to back to accommodate fitting through hat material opposed to the Collars.
- Opposite: A die stamped, gilt brass, Cap badge to the Otago and Southland Regiment. Rough strike, it does not appear to have had Collars issued with it. Two pressed type brass lugs to back. No maker mark and size 36mm by 33.5mm. |
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- Above: A gilt brass, die stamped Cap badge to the Otago and Southland Regiment. Better strike, this has two thick copper wire lugs to back and the maker mark of "M & K, Ltd" on the Warriors chest for Mayer & Kean Limited of Wellington. Size 35.5mm by 32.5mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass, die stamped Cap badge to the Otago and Southland Regiment. Like the opposite, a better strike, which also have two thick copper wire lugs to back, but no maker mark. Size 35.5mm by 32.5mm.
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On the 1st of April 1964 the Regiment became:
4 RNZIR – 4th Battalion, (Otago and Southland), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
- Opposite: A pair of embroidered and felt cloth shoulder titles worn post 1961 to 1994 to elements of the Otago & Southland Regiment of the 4 RNZIR (image from the Internet).
In March 2013, the Regiment was further merged with the 2nd Battalion (Canterbury and Nelson-Marlborough and West Coast) , Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment to form:
2nd/4th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (2/4 RNZIR)
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ / Support 1 Company – Dunedin
- Alpha Company – Invercargill
- Bravo Company – Dunedin
- Mortar Platoon – Gore
- Reconnaissance Platoon – Alexandra
- Assault Pioneer Platoon – Oamaru
4 RNZIR – 4th Battalion, (Otago and Southland), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
- Opposite: A pair of embroidered and felt cloth shoulder titles worn post 1961 to 1994 to elements of the Otago & Southland Regiment of the 4 RNZIR (image from the Internet).
In March 2013, the Regiment was further merged with the 2nd Battalion (Canterbury and Nelson-Marlborough and West Coast) , Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment to form:
2nd/4th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (2/4 RNZIR)
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ / Support 1 Company – Dunedin
- Alpha Company – Invercargill
- Bravo Company – Dunedin
- Mortar Platoon – Gore
- Reconnaissance Platoon – Alexandra
- Assault Pioneer Platoon – Oamaru
Fakes & Forgeries
The below is a fake or reproduction badge to the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment. Its a bit of a worry.
- Made from a "one feather to head" type, which is usually copper in composition, this is cast brass.
- Finish to front is OK, some strikes of the original badge aren't great anyway, and this at a passing glance would fool most collectors. But just lacking the fine detail in depth. I just wonder if the blackened finish, hides much of the faulting from the casting too.
- The back just lets it down, with again, just lack of detail from what a back die would do on a original die-stamped badge... but again its OK/nearly there.
- Small ribbon copper lugs to back, which is not on the originals, but the fixing material is hidden by the darkened finish.
- Size 46mm by 25.5mm.
- Made from a "one feather to head" type, which is usually copper in composition, this is cast brass.
- Finish to front is OK, some strikes of the original badge aren't great anyway, and this at a passing glance would fool most collectors. But just lacking the fine detail in depth. I just wonder if the blackened finish, hides much of the faulting from the casting too.
- The back just lets it down, with again, just lack of detail from what a back die would do on a original die-stamped badge... but again its OK/nearly there.
- Small ribbon copper lugs to back, which is not on the originals, but the fixing material is hidden by the darkened finish.
- Size 46mm by 25.5mm.
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9th (East Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment.
A selection of Cap and Collar badges to the 9th (Wellington East Coast) Infantry Regiment which formed in 1911 (from the 5th Battalion Wellington (Center or Ruahine) Rifles which also amalgamated at the time 3rd Battalion Wellington (East Coast) Rifles.
Re-designated 9th (Hawke's Bay) Regiment on the 27th March 1914.
Headquarters was at Napier.
Re-designated 9th (Hawke's Bay) Regiment on the 27th March 1914.
Headquarters was at Napier.
- Opposite: A sketch of the proposed badge for the 9th (East Coast Rifles) Infantry Regiment held by Archive NZ. Note the sketch shows a "3" to center, which would have referred to the 3rd Battalion Wellington (East Coast) Rifles, but has been "corrected" to the 9th.
Cap Badge - In 1911, their badge was described as "Fern fronds surmounted by a crown surrounding a red deer's head with No. of Regt's IX between. Motto "Kia Toa" on scroll at base".
Collar Badge - "Omit fern fronds, crown & motto".
Collar badge was approved on the 24th of July 1911 by the G.O.C.
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Another file mentions the Mess Dress of the Regiment as:
"1st Battalion - Mess Dress - Universal for Infantry of the Line with blue facings".
(Cadets, Regimental Badges and Uniforms R21078962 Box 19 AD37 24 c1912 Archives N.Z.).
Motto: KIA TOA (Be brave).
Cap Badge - In 1911, their badge was described as "Fern fronds surmounted by a crown surrounding a red deer's head with No. of Regt's IX between. Motto "Kia Toa" on scroll at base".
Collar Badge - "Omit fern fronds, crown & motto".
Collar badge was approved on the 24th of July 1911 by the G.O.C.
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Another file mentions the Mess Dress of the Regiment as:
"1st Battalion - Mess Dress - Universal for Infantry of the Line with blue facings".
(Cadets, Regimental Badges and Uniforms R21078962 Box 19 AD37 24 c1912 Archives N.Z.).
Motto: KIA TOA (Be brave).
- Above: A Officers darkened bronze Cap badge to the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment. Semi-solid to back, with the maker details impressed to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Two D shaped looped lugs to back and size 41.5mm by 37.5mm.
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- Above: A rare variation of the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment Cap badge. This badge has been 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
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(continued): 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 LONDON" to back, with copper looped lugs and size 41.5mm by 38mm (excluding hook). |
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- Opposite: A "Other Ranks" gilt brass Cap badge to the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment. Copper looped lugs to back and a maker plaque to "J R GAUNT LONDON", and size 41.5mm by 38mm.
- Above: A matching pair of darkened Collar badges to the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment. D shaped copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Likely Gaunt. Size 25.5mm by 23mm. |
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- Opposite: A gilt fired brass, Officers Cap badge to the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment. Long looped lugs to back, which is semi-solid. No maker mark and size 41.5mm by 37.5mm.
- Above: A matching pair of gilt fired Collar badges to the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment. D shaped copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Likely Gaunt and size 24mm by 21mm. |
- Above: An image of 10/3806 Major William Hugh McLean (MC, MID), here a member of the 9th (Hawke's Bay) Infantry Regiment. William is wearing a gilt brass set of Cap and Collars, and has a curved brass "NZR" to his shoulder board (© IWM HU 117689).
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- Above: An image of Lance Corporal Johnstone of the 9th (Hawke's Bay) Infantry Regiment. He wears a gilt brass set of Cap and two Collars to the 9th. To his shoulder board is a curved brass "NZR" title (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-J4374).
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- Above: An image of Private Prendergast of the 9th (Hawke's Bay) Infantry Regiment. He has a pair of 9th Collars to his tunic, and a curved "NEW ZEALAND" title to his shoulder board. Note the large New Zealand Returned Soldiers Association badge to above left breast pocket (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-P4579A).
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- Opposite: A gilt brass Cap badge to the 9th (Hawke's Bay) Infantry Regiment. Non-void crown, with wider roman numbers to center. Two copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Size 42.5mm by 37.5mm.
During WW1 the 9th (Hawke's Bay) Infantry Regiment contributed to the NZEF in the:
- Wellington Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (1/WIR) - 9 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (2/WIR) - 9 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (3/WIR) - 9 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
At the end of WW1 the 9th (Hawke's Bay) Infantry Regiment absorbed the 17th (Ruahine) Infantry Regiment.
In 1921 its title changed to the 3rd Battalion, Wellington Regiment.
In 1923 its title changed again to the Hawke's Bay Regiment.
But in 1941, the 2nd Battalion of the Hawke's Bay Regiment was mobilised and designated the 1st Battalion Ruahine Regiment.
During WW2, the 9th contributed to the following overseas Battalions of the 2NZEF:
- 19th Battalion - Briefly till the 5th October 1942.
- 22nd Battalion
- 25th Battalion
- 36th Battalion
During WW1 the 9th (Hawke's Bay) Infantry Regiment contributed to the NZEF in the:
- Wellington Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (1/WIR) - 9 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (2/WIR) - 9 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (3/WIR) - 9 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
At the end of WW1 the 9th (Hawke's Bay) Infantry Regiment absorbed the 17th (Ruahine) Infantry Regiment.
In 1921 its title changed to the 3rd Battalion, Wellington Regiment.
In 1923 its title changed again to the Hawke's Bay Regiment.
But in 1941, the 2nd Battalion of the Hawke's Bay Regiment was mobilised and designated the 1st Battalion Ruahine Regiment.
During WW2, the 9th contributed to the following overseas Battalions of the 2NZEF:
- 19th Battalion - Briefly till the 5th October 1942.
- 22nd Battalion
- 25th Battalion
- 36th Battalion
- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment. Copper wire looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Note the wider frame and smaller crown. Size 42mm by 38mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment. Two pressed type lugs to back. No maker mark and size 44mm by 38mm.
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- Above: 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. Size 42mm by 37.5mm.
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- Above: A matching pair of gilt brass Collar badges to the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment. Two thick copper wire lugs to back, but no maker mark. Size 25.5mm by 22.5mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass Collar badge to the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment. Two D shaped copper lugs to back, but no maker mark. Size 25mm by 22mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass Collar badge to the 9th (Hawkes Bay) Infantry Regiment. Two round copper wire lugs to back, but no maker mark. Size 24mm by 21mm.
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- Opposite: A pair of embroidered and felt cloth shoulder titles worn post 1961 to 1994 to elements of the Hawke's Bay Regiment of the 7 RNZIR. Size 20mm by 130mm.
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- Above Right: A pair of shiny brass coloured, modern collars to the 7th Battalion (Wellington (City of Wellington's Own) and Hawkes Bay) Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. Both have a pair of pins to back to be used with clutches. No maker mark and size 26mm by 23mm.
In August 1947 the Hawke's Bay Regiment was designated a Territorial Force (TF)
On the 1st of April 1964 it merged with the Wellington (City of Wellington's Own) Regiment and became:
7 RNZIR – 7th Battalion, (Wellington (City of Wellington's Own) and Hawke's Bay), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
In August 1947 the Hawke's Bay Regiment was designated a Territorial Force (TF)
On the 1st of April 1964 it merged with the Wellington (City of Wellington's Own) Regiment and became:
7 RNZIR – 7th Battalion, (Wellington (City of Wellington's Own) and Hawke's Bay), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
In March 2013, the Regiment was further merged with the 5th Battalion (Wellington West Coast and Taranaki), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment to form:
5th/7th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (5/7 RNZIR)
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ/Logistics Company - Napier
- Alpha Company -Gisborne
- Bravo Company - Petone
- Charlie Company - Waipukurau
- Delta Company - Masterton
- Support Company - Trentham
5th/7th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (5/7 RNZIR)
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ/Logistics Company - Napier
- Alpha Company -Gisborne
- Bravo Company - Petone
- Charlie Company - Waipukurau
- Delta Company - Masterton
- Support Company - Trentham
10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment.
Formed in 1911 (from the 3rd Battalion, Otago Rifles).
Headquarters were at Oamaru.
A memo dated the 4th of April 1911 states:
"Sir,
I have the honour to forward a sample and description of Regimental badge for approval and registration.
I would suggest that "10th Regiment (North Otago Rifles)" be substituted for the present lettering "3rd Battn Otago Rifle Volunteers", also that the New Zealand (conventional) cross --- enclosure (a) --- be substituted for the Australian cross which is now on the face of the shield in the centre of the badge.
The description of the proposed badge is. therefore --- two fern leaves surmounted by a crown, enclosing circular lettering "10th Regiment (North Otago Rifles)", within which is a shield embossed with the New Zealand Cross, the whole footed by a scroll bearing the legend "Pro Patria"".
This was confirmed later with
Cap Badge - "Circle bearing words "10th Regiment North Otago Rifles", surrounding N.Z. cross (4 stars) flanked by fern fronds & surmounted by Crown. Motto "Pro Patria" on scroll at base".
Collar Badge - "Similar".
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Motto: PRO PATRIA (For our Country).
Headquarters were at Oamaru.
A memo dated the 4th of April 1911 states:
"Sir,
I have the honour to forward a sample and description of Regimental badge for approval and registration.
I would suggest that "10th Regiment (North Otago Rifles)" be substituted for the present lettering "3rd Battn Otago Rifle Volunteers", also that the New Zealand (conventional) cross --- enclosure (a) --- be substituted for the Australian cross which is now on the face of the shield in the centre of the badge.
The description of the proposed badge is. therefore --- two fern leaves surmounted by a crown, enclosing circular lettering "10th Regiment (North Otago Rifles)", within which is a shield embossed with the New Zealand Cross, the whole footed by a scroll bearing the legend "Pro Patria"".
This was confirmed later with
Cap Badge - "Circle bearing words "10th Regiment North Otago Rifles", surrounding N.Z. cross (4 stars) flanked by fern fronds & surmounted by Crown. Motto "Pro Patria" on scroll at base".
Collar Badge - "Similar".
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Motto: PRO PATRIA (For our Country).
- Above: A image of 18434 2nd Lieutenant Kenneth Alexander Sneddon with the badges of the 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment to his uniform. He wears a voided version of the Cap badge to his hat, yet his collar is a cut-down version of the badge, with the crown and fern-fronds removed. Image taken in 1916. His service file indicates he was part of the 16th Reinforcements, but saw service overseas with the Auckland Infantry Regiment (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-S1095).
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- Above: Another darkened bronze Officers, semi-solid Cap or Collar badge to the 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment. Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Note there is a large amount of damage to front, right side and center. Size 39mm by 41.5mm.
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- Opposite: A darkened bronze Officers Cap or Collar badge to the 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment. Rough to back, with stippling, but appear correct and could be just a locally made version. William Bock of Wellington made a number of Officers badges, though he did stamp his maker mark to back (this has none), and are also rough to back.
Badge has been brooched and is semi-solid to back. As mentioned, no maker mark (image from the internet).
Badge has been brooched and is semi-solid to back. As mentioned, no maker mark (image from the internet).
- Above & Right: A Cap and Collar badge set in gilt brass to the 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment. All are voided, around the center shield and have a maker plaque to "J R GAUNT LONDON" to behind the crown. Size 39mm by 40mm.
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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 just cutting out the background. The difference in price when sold was apparently well worth their while. ;-( |
- Above & Right: the more commonly encountered Cap and Collar badge set in gilt brass to the 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment.
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(continued) All are non-voided, around the center shield and have a brass makers plaque to "J R GAUNT LONDON" to behind the crown. Two D shaped copper looped lugs to each. Size 38.5mm by 41mm.
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- Above: An image of 8/3613 Corporal Andrew Hall (MM), here wearing a Cap and Collar set to the 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment. To his shoulder boards, he has a "10" over curved "NZR" title, and his tunic has a set of 4 stars NZ Forces, gilt brass buttons (Archive NZ R24184439).
- Opposite: An image of 8/2666 2nd Lt Peter Thomas Moir (DCM & MM), here wearing voided Cap and Collar badges to the 10th (North Otago Infantry Regiment (Archive NZ R24184074). |
- Above: A thin, gilt brass Cap or Collar badge to the 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment. Two copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark. Size 39.5mm by 39.5mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap or Collar badge to the 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment. Two copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark. Size 41mm by 40mm.
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- Above: A darkened brass Cap or Collar badge to the 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment. Two copper looped lugs have been clipped off, with no maker mark. Size 40mm by 40.5mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment. Large brass slider to back, with no maker mark. Size 39.5mm by 38mm.
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- Above: A pre-WW1/WW1 of the 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment in Camp, in New Zealand. A mix of missing insignia, with one having nothing, while another with just a Cap badge. The center kneeling soldier is showing his shoulder strap which clearly has a "10" over "NZR". Sadly no names or date.
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- Above: A image entitled "Widdowsden" which I think is of 2nd Lt (later Captain) 8/2804 William Hugh Stanley Widdowson, with his Wife. He was an Officer with the 7th Reinforcements, who then went on to serve with the O.I.B and 4th N.Z.L.T.M.B. Note non voided Collar badges to his tunic. William served as a Major in the N.M.R during WW2 (Nelson Museum collection 87436).
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- Above Right: An image of 74677 Pte. Leonard Maxwell Morrison, taken in March 1919, in Germany, by Samson & Co. Leonard is wearing a gilt brass set of 10th Cap and/or Collar badges to his lemon squeezer and tunic. He has a curved gilt brass "NZR" title to his shoulder board (Te Papa PS.003442).
During WW1 the 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment contributed to the NZEF in the:
- Otago Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Otago Infantry Regiment (1/OIR) - 10 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Otago Infantry Regiment (2/OIR) - 10 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Otago Infantry Regiment (3/OIR) - 10 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
In 1921, they were merged with the 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment, and became the Otago Regiment.
In late 1938, the National Military Reserve (NMR) was formed.
It was a reserve force for the Territorial Army, which was to be called up in times of emergency.
They were issued and wore obsolete uniforms and webbing, but were also issued with badges which originated from 1911, yet had been made obsolete due to amalgamations of Regiments after the Great War, in the 1920's.
In the Southern Military District (covering the whole of the South Island of New Zealand), the following NMR units wore the 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment Cap badge from 1938 and into WW2:
- 4th Battalion, Dunedin NMR
- 19th Coy, Oamaru NMR
- 20th Coy, Invercargill NMR
During WW1 the 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment contributed to the NZEF in the:
- Otago Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Otago Infantry Regiment (1/OIR) - 10 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Otago Infantry Regiment (2/OIR) - 10 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Otago Infantry Regiment (3/OIR) - 10 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
In 1921, they were merged with the 4th (Otago) Infantry Regiment, and became the Otago Regiment.
In late 1938, the National Military Reserve (NMR) was formed.
It was a reserve force for the Territorial Army, which was to be called up in times of emergency.
They were issued and wore obsolete uniforms and webbing, but were also issued with badges which originated from 1911, yet had been made obsolete due to amalgamations of Regiments after the Great War, in the 1920's.
In the Southern Military District (covering the whole of the South Island of New Zealand), the following NMR units wore the 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment Cap badge from 1938 and into WW2:
- 4th Battalion, Dunedin NMR
- 19th Coy, Oamaru NMR
- 20th Coy, Invercargill NMR
Fakes & Forgeries
Below is a fake or reproduction cap badge to the 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment.
- Orangey-Yellow in colour, but OK to front in terms of detail.
- To back is stippled, with holes, and a large flat area to side, where the excess brass has been filed down from the casting process. It lacks the detail, which a die-stamped version would have.
- Two small copper lugs, soldered on, where as the originals have a different kind of braze, which does not turn black with time.
- Size 38.5mm by 41.5mm.
- Orangey-Yellow in colour, but OK to front in terms of detail.
- To back is stippled, with holes, and a large flat area to side, where the excess brass has been filed down from the casting process. It lacks the detail, which a die-stamped version would have.
- Two small copper lugs, soldered on, where as the originals have a different kind of braze, which does not turn black with time.
- Size 38.5mm by 41.5mm.
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11th (Taranaki Rifles) Infantry Regiment.
The 11th (Taranaki Rifles), was formed in 1911 (from the 4th Battalion, Wellington (Taranaki) Rifles).
Headquarters were at Stratford.
Headquarters were at Stratford.
- Above: A sketch of the proposed badge of the 11th (Taranaki) Infantry Regiment held at Archive NZ. The G.O.C in a memo dated the 10th of July 1911 stated:
"The General Commanding Officer considers there is too much verbiage in this- honours should not appear on badges- and suggests the omission of the circle etc. in the middle of mountain and insertion of "11th Taranaki Rifles" on scroll at foot. There is now no such Regiment as the "4th Wellington Battalion."" |
Above: A inspirational view of Mt Egmont for the 11th (Taranaki) Infantry Regiment badge. Picture taken recently on a visit to the area (July 2024) in New Zealand.
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The following badge was approved on the 24th of July 1911.
Cap Badge - "Facsimile of Mt Egmont with words "11th Taranaki Rifles on scroll at base"."
Collar Badge - "Similar".
Written in pencil "Regimental Motto (not fond of badge) "Primus in Bello"".
A memo dated 22nd of Aug 1911 notes that the regimental motto is "Primus in Bello".
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Motto: PRIMUS IN ARMIS (First in arms).
They wore a number of variations to their badge.
Cap Badge - "Facsimile of Mt Egmont with words "11th Taranaki Rifles on scroll at base"."
Collar Badge - "Similar".
Written in pencil "Regimental Motto (not fond of badge) "Primus in Bello"".
A memo dated 22nd of Aug 1911 notes that the regimental motto is "Primus in Bello".
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Motto: PRIMUS IN ARMIS (First in arms).
They wore a number of variations to their badge.
- Above: A bronze, semi-solid, Officers Cap badge to the 11th (Taranaki Rifles) Regiment. Note the Battle Honors to either side to front, with "WAIREKA", "NEW ZEALAND" and "SOUTH AFRICA". Two tangs or blades to back, with a maker impressed marked to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 25.5mm by 49mm.
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- Above: A pair of Other Ranks, gilt brass versions of the 11th (Taranaki Rifles) Regiment Cap or Collar badges with Battle Honors.It has been noted from the memoirs of a Commanding Officer of the 11th, that these badges were worn by the men in France in December 1916. Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back, with maker plaque to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 25.5mm by 50mm.
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- Opposite: An image of Lieutenant Colonel 10/2478 Claude Horace Weston, here a member of the 11th (Taranaki) Infantry Regiment. He wears a pair of Cap/Collar badges to his Tunic collar.
In his memoirs entitled "Three Years with the New Zealanders", Chapter 3 "Lemnos" he mentions the above badge being worn at the time on the Peninsula at Gallipoli in the following passage:
"Lieutenant-Colonel Hart gave me the command of the Taranaki (C) Company, a command that I had the fortune to retain, with a few weeks' exception, until December, 1916; a long time as time goes in this war. The Company represented in the Battalion the 11th Taranaki Rifles Regiment, which wears on its badge the honours "Waireka" and "South Africa." The fathers and grandfathers of the present generation of that very attractive and flourishing Province of New Zealand had fought for their footing in the country in the Sixties, and probably that struggle left an imprint on them that was passed down by inheritance to their children."
In his memoirs entitled "Three Years with the New Zealanders", Chapter 3 "Lemnos" he mentions the above badge being worn at the time on the Peninsula at Gallipoli in the following passage:
"Lieutenant-Colonel Hart gave me the command of the Taranaki (C) Company, a command that I had the fortune to retain, with a few weeks' exception, until December, 1916; a long time as time goes in this war. The Company represented in the Battalion the 11th Taranaki Rifles Regiment, which wears on its badge the honours "Waireka" and "South Africa." The fathers and grandfathers of the present generation of that very attractive and flourishing Province of New Zealand had fought for their footing in the country in the Sixties, and probably that struggle left an imprint on them that was passed down by inheritance to their children."
- Above: A Cap and/or Collar badge in gilt brass to the 11th (Taranaki Rifles) Regiment. Rectangular plaque marked to "J R GAUNT LONDON" to back. Size 25.5mm by 49.5mm.
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- Above: A pair of Cap or Collar badges in gilt brass to the 11th (Taranaki Rifles) Regiment. Oval maker plaques to "J R GAUNT LONDON" to back. Two D shaped copper looped lugs. This is the most commonly found type of badge found to the regiment. Size 25.5mm by 49.5mm.
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- Above: A darkened brass Cap or Collar badge to the 11th (Taranaki Rifles) Regiment. Two D shaped lugs to back, with no maker mark. Size 26mm by 49.5mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap or Collar badge to the 11th (Taranaki Rifles) Regiment. Two D shaped lugs to back, with no maker mark. Size 25.5mm by 49.5mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap or Collar badge to the 11th (Taranaki Rifles) Regiment. Two D shaped lugs to back, with no maker mark. Size 25.5mm by 49.5mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap or Collar badge to the 11th (Taranaki Rifles) Regiment. Two hex type brass lugs to back, much like you would find on a WW1 Reinforcements badge. No maker mark. Size 26mm by 49.5mm.
- Opposite: A very detailed image of 10/2499 Temporary Captain Robert Kenneth Nicol who enlisted as a Sergeant with the 6th Reinforcements, "B" Company. He served with both the 1st and 2nd Wellington Battalions, at Gallipoli (Murdros), Egypt and the Western Front, where he won the Military Cross in Dec 1917 as a 2nd Lieutenant attached to the NZ 1st Light Trench Mortar Battalion. He was sadly killed in action on the 5th of August 1918 as a part of Dunsterforce, which was a Allied Expeditionary Force set up to fight the Ottoman forces in Armenia, after the Russian Tsarist army collapsed in 1917. Robert is wearing a set of 2nd type 11th (Taranaki) Infantry Regiment Cap/Collar badges. He has his "MC" ribbon bar just above his tunic pocket. His puggaree to his hat is infantry, with colours khaki/scarlet/khaki. I believe his hat may be American, as it has a vent or badge hole to the front, with metal grommet. He looks to just have a metal shoulder title to his shoulder boards (R24183992 AALZ 25044 F1032 Archives NZ). |
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap or Collar badge to the 11th (Taranaki Rifles) Regiment which has been converted into a sweethearts badges, with lugs removed and a brooch fitting attached. Maker plaque to back base to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 25.5mm by 49.5mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass and Silver plated Cap or Collar badge to the 11th (Taranaki Rifles) Regiment. Converted into a sweethearts badges, with Silver plate applied to peak to depict snow, a brooch fitting is to back with maker plaque of "J R GAUNT LONDON" (image from the internet).
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- Above: An image of 71502 Private Ernest Nigel Oatridge of the 11th (Taranaki Rifles) Infantry Regiment. He was part of "C" Company, 36th Reinforcements. He wears two badges to his tunic (no battle honour type), while to his shoulder boards is a curved "NZR" title. To his right cuff is a 2 year overseas service chevron (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-O4532).
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- Above: An image of 2nd Lieutenant Robertson of the 11th (Taranaki Rifles) Infantry Regiment. He wears two badges to his tunic (no battle honour type), while to his shoulder boards is a rank pip and a curved "NZR" title. To his right cuff is a 4 year overseas service chevron (made of two 2 year ones, sewn together) and to his left brest is a ribbon bar for the 1914/15 Star (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-R4619).
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During WW1 the 11th (Taranaki) Infantry Regiment contributed to the NZEF in the:
- Wellington Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (1/WIR) - 11 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (2/WIR) - 11 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (3/WIR) - 11 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
- Wellington Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (1/WIR) - 11 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (2/WIR) - 11 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (3/WIR) - 11 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
In 1921 the 11th Taranaki Regiment was re-designated the 4th Battalion, Wellington Regiment, and then its title was changed again to just the Taranaki Regiment in 1923.
It is thought that the following badges were made for the title change in 1921, but with pictorial evidence showing them still being worn into the 1930's alongside the earlier versions.
- Opposite: A darkened bronze, solid Officers Cap badge, to the IVth Battalion, Wellington Regiment, Taranaki Rifles. Two tangs or blades to back and impressed to center back to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 25mm by 49mm.
It is thought that the following badges were made for the title change in 1921, but with pictorial evidence showing them still being worn into the 1930's alongside the earlier versions.
- Opposite: A darkened bronze, solid Officers Cap badge, to the IVth Battalion, Wellington Regiment, Taranaki Rifles. Two tangs or blades to back and impressed to center back to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 25mm by 49mm.
- Above: A darkened bronze, solid Officers Collar badge, to the IVth Battalion, Wellington Regiment, Taranaki Rifles. Two looped lugs to back in a East/West configuration, with maker impressed mark to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 25mm by 49mm.
- Opposite: An image of a Captain "McLeod", who's details have yet to be found. He is wearing a set of 4th Batt, Wellington Regiment badges to his Hat and tunic collar. Image is dated 1929-1930 (Swainson/Woods Collection, Puke Ariki and District Libraries SW1923-1930.04838). |
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- Above Right: An image entitled "Eva", and showing a young trumpet player with the above "IV Batt" Cap/Collar badges to the collar of his tunic. Note the long lower banner, whih is the tell-tail sign of them being worn. Sadly the number cannot be made out to front.
Image is dated 1940 (Swainson/Woods Collection, Puke Ariki and District Libraries SW1940.0305)
Image is dated 1940 (Swainson/Woods Collection, Puke Ariki and District Libraries SW1940.0305)
- Above: Gilt brass Other Ranks Cap and/or Collar Badge with the title, IVth Battalion, Wellington Regiment, Taranaki Rifles. To back are D shaped copper looped lugs, with maker plaque to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 25mm by 49mm.
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- Above: A Gilt brass Other Ranks pair of Cap or Collar Badge with the title, IVth Battalion, Wellington Regiment, Taranaki Rifles. To back are D shaped copper looped lugs, with maker plaque to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 25mm by 49mm.
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- Above Left & Right: A possible image of 52870 Capt Charles Frederick Norton. I've included both images to ensure the slight different angles and light on his badges. He is wearing as a Collar badge, the "4th Batt" type, but on his Lemon Squeezer, he wears the "XI" type. I cannot distinguish whether the hat badge has the "honors". Charles served in WW1 with the NZRB, attesting in March 1917. He finished the war with the rank of Corporal. Interwar, he served with the Territorial Force, with Papers Past noting that he sat his Lieutenants exams in August 1925, as part of the 1st Battalion, Taranaki Regiment. By WW2, when he attested again (service number 804545), he held the rank of Captain. On the 19th of March 1942, he was appointed Temporary Major, and then was moved to the Retired List in 1943, with the rank of Major. The image is dated 1923-1926, but I think its actually later. He was awarded a "Efficiency Decoration" in 1941, which signified 12 years service with the NZ Territorial Force, but doesn't appear to be wearing its ribbon. He was awarded a BWM and Victory for his services in WW1, who's ribbon is in both photo's (Swainson/Woods Collection, Puke Ariki and District Libraries SW1923-1930.00533 & SW1923-1930.00532).
- Above: An image of Lance Corporal Wilhemshurst, who is wearing a set of 4th Batt, Wellington Regt badges to both Hat and tunic. Note the "4" to shoulder strap, above the curved "N.Z.R"Serviceman (Swainson/Woods Collection, Puke Ariki and District Libraries SW1923-1930.02312).
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- Above: Another images of Lance Corporal Wilhemshurst confirming both Collar badges are the same, and also that he is wearing two "MG" trade sleeve patches. Both images are dated 1926-1927 (Swainson/Woods Collection, Puke Ariki and District Libraries SW1923-1930.02313).
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- Above: An image of Company Sergeant Major Brewster, taken in 1926-1927. He is wearing a 4th Batt Cap badge, but 11th Collar badges. Note the Prize Award on his left sleeve, a Star over crossed rifles. Presumably a champion shot, with shield (Swainson/Woods Collection, Puke Ariki and District Libraries SW1923-1930.02331).
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- Opposite: A small flyer commemorating the "Presentation of Colours" at New Plymouth on 22nd of March 1936 for the 1st Battalion, The Taranaki Regiment. Note the Battle honours below.
- Above: An image of members of the Taranaki Regiment's brass Band. Note a Cap badge to their Lemon Squeezer (and no "collars" to their Battle dress). Likely a "XI" type badge based on the small size of the lower banner. Dated 18th of March 1947 (Swainson/Woods Collection, Puke Ariki and District Libraries SW1947.1683). |
During WW2, the 11th contributed to the following overseas Battalions of the 2NZEF:
- 19th Battalion - Briefly till the 5th October 1942.
- 22nd Battalion
- 25th Battalion
- 36th Battalion
- 19th Battalion - Briefly till the 5th October 1942.
- 22nd Battalion
- 25th Battalion
- 36th Battalion
In 1948, the Taranaki Regiment amalgamated with the Wellington West Coast Regiment form the 7th/11th Wellington West Coast & Taranaki Regiment).
By this stage it was designated a Territorial Force (TF)
By this stage it was designated a Territorial Force (TF)
- Above: A post 1948 to 1964 style Cap badge in gilt brass and white metal to the 7th/11th (Wellington West Coast & Taranaki) Regiment. Two thick, wire looped lugs to back. No maker mark, but possibly Mayer & Kean or Wellington. Size 44mm by 43mm.
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- Above: A post 1948 to 1964 style Cap badge in gilt brass and white metal to the 7th/11th (Wellington West Coast & Taranaki) Regiment. Two pressed type copper lugs to back. No maker mark and size 44mm by 43mm.
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- Opposite: A matching, opposing Collar badge pair in gilt brass and white metal to the 7th/11th (Wellington West Coast & Taranaki) Regiment. Two thick, wire looped lugs to the back of each. No maker mark, but possibly Mayer & Kean or Wellington and match the above Cap badge.
On the 1st of April 1964 the Regiment became:
5 RNZIR – 5th Battalion, (Wellington West Coast and Taranaki), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
On the 1st of April 1964 the Regiment became:
5 RNZIR – 5th Battalion, (Wellington West Coast and Taranaki), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
As part of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment, the 5th/7th Battalion wear the RNZIR Cap badge. Opposite are pre-2012 Collar badges to the unit.
- Far left: A gilt brass and white metal Collar with two pins to back to be used with clutches. No maker mark and size 31mm by 29mm.
- Center and Right: A opposing pair of darkened copper 2 piece Collars badges. The center badges has three pins, while the right has two. No maker mark and size 31mm by 29mm.
- Far left: A gilt brass and white metal Collar with two pins to back to be used with clutches. No maker mark and size 31mm by 29mm.
- Center and Right: A opposing pair of darkened copper 2 piece Collars badges. The center badges has three pins, while the right has two. No maker mark and size 31mm by 29mm.
- Above: A pair of pre-2012 cloth badges to the 5th/7th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. Note the Phoenix heads are opposing.
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- Above: A post 2013 set of opposing Collar badges to the 5th/7th Battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. Single piece, they are Gilt and Silver tone metal, with two pins to the back of each, to be used with clutches. No maker mark. Size 24.5mm by 30mm.
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In March 2013, the Regiment was further merged with the 7th Battalion (Wellington [City of Wellington's Own], Hawkes Bay) , Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment to form:
5th/7th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (5/7 RNZIR)
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ / Support/ Logistic Company - Whanganui
- Alpha Company – New Plymouth
- Bravo Company - Hawera
- Charlie Company - Palmerston North
5th/7th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (5/7 RNZIR)
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ / Support/ Logistic Company - Whanganui
- Alpha Company – New Plymouth
- Bravo Company - Hawera
- Charlie Company - Palmerston North
In 2008, elements of the Taranaki Regiment celebrated its 150 years. Three types of badges were struck for the occasion.
- Above: A darkened bronze coloured metal version of the Cap badge to the 11th (Taranaki) Rifles Regiment, with battle honors and the dates "1858 - 2008". It has two pins to back to be used with clutches. No maker mark and size 25mm by 50mm.
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- Above: A gilt metal version of the Cap badge to the 11th (Taranaki) Rifles Regiment, with battle honors and the dates "1858 - 2008". It has two looped lugs to back. No maker mark and size 25mm by 50mm.
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- Bottom: A Stirling Silver version of the Cap badge to the 11th (Taranaki) Rifles Regiment, with battle honors and the dates "1858 - 2008". It has two lugs to back, along with the mark of "St.Silv" and is numbered "18". No maker mark and size 25mm by 50mm.
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Fakes & Forgeries
Below is a fake or reproduction cap badge to the 11th (Taranaki) Infantry Regiment.
- Orangey-Yellow in colour, but lacking detail to front.
- To back is stippled, with holes, and a large flat area to base, where the excess brass has been filed down from the casting process. It lacks the detail, which a die-stamped version would have.
- Two small copper lugs which are not used on originals.
- Size 25mm by 48mm.
- Orangey-Yellow in colour, but lacking detail to front.
- To back is stippled, with holes, and a large flat area to base, where the excess brass has been filed down from the casting process. It lacks the detail, which a die-stamped version would have.
- Two small copper lugs which are not used on originals.
- Size 25mm by 48mm.
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Above and opposite is a reproduction cap badge to the 11th (Taranaki) Infantry Regiment still being done in the UK (other regimental badges are now appearing too).
- Detail is good to front, and for most, at a glance this badge would pass, except for the fact that it has a silver colour.
- To back also is good, with a readable Gaunt maker plaque. Its up-side-down, but that is sometimes encountered on originals too.
- Stamped to back to "SILVER" just at the summit of Mt Egmont.
- Two silver coloured lugs to back. Shape is OK and similar to originals, but you can see the base of the lug.
- Size 23.5mm by 47mm.
Basically a fantasy badge, maybe not sold to fool the collector as such, but then there is no reason for it to exist either. No badges were issued in solid silver to the New Zealand Army. Some gilt fired brass examples, have silver components, but the 11th (Taranaki) Infantry Regiment never had this distinction.
- Detail is good to front, and for most, at a glance this badge would pass, except for the fact that it has a silver colour.
- To back also is good, with a readable Gaunt maker plaque. Its up-side-down, but that is sometimes encountered on originals too.
- Stamped to back to "SILVER" just at the summit of Mt Egmont.
- Two silver coloured lugs to back. Shape is OK and similar to originals, but you can see the base of the lug.
- Size 23.5mm by 47mm.
Basically a fantasy badge, maybe not sold to fool the collector as such, but then there is no reason for it to exist either. No badges were issued in solid silver to the New Zealand Army. Some gilt fired brass examples, have silver components, but the 11th (Taranaki) Infantry Regiment never had this distinction.
12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiment.
The 12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiment was formed in 1911 from the amalgamation of 1st and 2nd Battalions of Nelson Infantry.
Headquarters were at Nelson.
Headquarters were at Nelson.
- Opposite: A sketch of the proposed badge for the 12th (Nelson) Infantry held by the NZ Archive.
Cap Badge - In 1911, their badge was described as a "Stag surrounding by circle bearing the words "Nelson Infantry" flanked by fern fronds & surmounted by the number of Regt. 12". Collar Badge - "Similar". (Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ). Motto: (none in the 1st NZEF - as noted in R17187868 AALI W3508 7291 Archives NZ) - Opposite: An image of 6/359 Major Frederick Starnes (DSO, OBE, MID x 2), here a Lieutenant, and member of the 12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiment. He wears a Cap and Collar badge set, and to his shoulder boards a "NEW ZEALAND" title ((© IWM HU 126884). |
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- Above & Above Right: A darkened Bronze Officer Cap and Collar badge set to the 12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiment. Semi-solid to back, with two blades or tangs to Cap, while the Collars have two D shaped copper lugs in a East/West configuration. Sadly one tang to the Cap badge has bust off. All have the impressed maker mark of "J R GAUNT LONDON" to Cap, while Collars just have "GAUNT LONDON". Size of Cap 32mm by 37mm, while Collars are 26mm by 29mm.
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- Above & Above Right: A brass Cap and Collar badge set to the 12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiment. A mix of finishes, with the Cap and one collar having a darkened finish, while the other Collar is in gilt. All are die-stamped, with two D shaped copper looped lugs to back, and small maker plaque to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size of Cap 32.5mm by 37mm, while Collars are 26mm by 28mm.
- Above: An image of J Williams, circa 1920, taken in Wellington, by Berry & Co. Note the likely brooched 12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiment Cap badge she wears as a sweethearts badge to her blouse (Te Papa B.044203).
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- Above: An image of 6/752 Edward John Baigent, here a member of the 12th, with a set of Cap and Collars to the regiment. Note his shoulder strap has a "12" in separate brass numbers, over a curved "NZR". Edward was part of the main body, which left New Zealand in Oct 1914 (Auckland Cenotaph).
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- Above: A darkened brass Cap badge to the 12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiment. Die-stamped, with two looped lugs to back and no maker mark. Variations in the bow to base and the antlers to the Stag. Size 34mm by 38mm.
- Opposite: A returned soldier, with the image dated 1920. This is Private Burke, who is wearing a gilt brass 12th (Nelson) Cap badge to his Lemon Squeezer, and a pair of Collars to his tunic. He has a "NZR" brass title to his shoulder boards as well as a 4 year service chevron badge to his right arm. To his left sleeve are two wound stripes, indicating hie was injured twice while serving (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-B4102). |
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- Above: A matching darkened pair of brass Collar badges to the 12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiment. Copper D shaped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Size 27mm by 28mm.
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- Above: A darkened brass Cap badge to the 12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiment. Die-stamped, with two D shaped looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Note the "12" to top is joined. Size 33mm by 37mm.
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.
In March 1919, the 12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiment requested a change to its badge to include the "Marlborough" part in the title to front.
In March 1919, the 12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiment requested a change to its badge to include the "Marlborough" part in the title to front.
- Above: A letter dated the 19th of March 1919 from the Commanding Officer of the Canterbury District requesting the title change be made on the Cap and Collar badges of the 12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiment to be 12th (Nelson & Marlborough) (Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
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- Opposite Above Right: There was some push-back, as the funds would come out of the Regiments "Maintenance Grant", which was a public purse. The initial cost would be to the sum of 68 Pounds, 13 Shillings and 4 pense, including postage (Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
On the 6th of May 1919 approve was given to order the below modified badges, with a initial order for 1000 sets.
Today, it is a very hard badge to find and collect, so one wonders where they have all gone over the years!
On the 6th of May 1919 approve was given to order the below modified badges, with a initial order for 1000 sets.
Today, it is a very hard badge to find and collect, so one wonders where they have all gone over the years!
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- Above & Opposite: A Cap and Collar badge set to the 12th (Nelson & Marlborough) Infantry Regiment. All have a darkened finish applied, though both collars are polish to front, with just the finish to back. All have two D shaped copper looped lugs and a makers plaque to back to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size of Cap 32.5mm by 37mm, size of Collar 27mm by 29mm.
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- Above: A single darkened Collar badge to the 12th (Nelson & Marlborough) Infantry Regiment. This has its full darkened finish to front with two D shaped copper looped lugs and a makers plaque to back to "J R GAUNT LONDON"
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- Above: A post WW1 bi-metal Collar badge to the 12th (Nelson & Marlborough) Infantry Regiment. Semi-solid to back, with 2 D shaped copper looped lugs to back and the impressed maker mark of "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 26.5mm by 29mm.
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During WW1 the 12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiment contributed to the NZEF in the:
- Canterbury Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (1/CIR) - 12 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (2/CIR) - 12 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (3/CIR) - 12 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
In 1921, the 12th merged with the 13th (North Canterbury and Westland) to form the 2nd Battalion, The Canterbury Regiment.
This changed again in June 1923 to The Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast Regiment.
The 12th & 13th badges are discussed further below in the next section.
During WW2, the 12th contributed to the following overseas Battalions of the 2NZEF:
- 20th Battalion - Briefly till the 5th October 1942.
- 23rd Battalion
- 26th Battalion
- 30th Battalion
- 37th Battalion
In August 1947 the Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast Regiment was designated a Territorial Force (TF)
On the 1st of April 1964 it amalgamated with the Canterbury Regiment and became:
2 RNZIR – 2nd Battalion, (Canterbury, and Nelson-Marlborough and West Coast), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment.
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
In March 2013, the Regiment was further merged with the 4th Battalion (Otago and Southland), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment to form:
2nd/4th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (2/4 RNZIR)
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ / Logistic Company – Christchurch
- Alpha Company – Greymouth
- Bravo Company – Christchurch
- Charlie Company - Timaru
- Delta Company – Nelson
- Support Company - Christchurch / Blenheim /Ashburton
- Canterbury Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (1/CIR) - 12 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (2/CIR) - 12 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (3/CIR) - 12 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
In 1921, the 12th merged with the 13th (North Canterbury and Westland) to form the 2nd Battalion, The Canterbury Regiment.
This changed again in June 1923 to The Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast Regiment.
The 12th & 13th badges are discussed further below in the next section.
During WW2, the 12th contributed to the following overseas Battalions of the 2NZEF:
- 20th Battalion - Briefly till the 5th October 1942.
- 23rd Battalion
- 26th Battalion
- 30th Battalion
- 37th Battalion
In August 1947 the Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast Regiment was designated a Territorial Force (TF)
On the 1st of April 1964 it amalgamated with the Canterbury Regiment and became:
2 RNZIR – 2nd Battalion, (Canterbury, and Nelson-Marlborough and West Coast), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment.
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
In March 2013, the Regiment was further merged with the 4th Battalion (Otago and Southland), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment to form:
2nd/4th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (2/4 RNZIR)
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ / Logistic Company – Christchurch
- Alpha Company – Greymouth
- Bravo Company – Christchurch
- Charlie Company - Timaru
- Delta Company – Nelson
- Support Company - Christchurch / Blenheim /Ashburton
13th (North Canterbury and Westland) Infantry Regiment
Formed in 1911, from the 2nd (North Canterbury) Battalion of Infantry, it became the 13th (North Canterbury) Infantry Regiment.
Headquarters at Rangiora.
Headquarters at Rangiora.
Designs for the badge were submitted for approval on the 30th of May 1911.
In a memo it was described as
"Badges 13th Regt. N.Z.I
Helmet Badge is not suggested as there is no full dress at present.
Cap and Collar Badges as enclosed pattern and same size.
Motto "Kia Pono Tonu" - "Be Faithful Always"
Motto to be on Cap badge only.
Design: Shaded parts of feather to be bronze black.
Tips of feathers white metal.
Fernleaves and ribbon to be brass.
For Officers fernleaves & ribbon will be gold or gilt"
- Opposite: The sketches submitted for the proposed badges of the 13th (North Canterbury & Westland) Infantry Regiment, held by Archive NZ.
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Motto: KIA PONO TONU (Ever faithful).
Below are the rarest of the New Zealand Infantry Badges.
In a memo it was described as
"Badges 13th Regt. N.Z.I
Helmet Badge is not suggested as there is no full dress at present.
Cap and Collar Badges as enclosed pattern and same size.
Motto "Kia Pono Tonu" - "Be Faithful Always"
Motto to be on Cap badge only.
Design: Shaded parts of feather to be bronze black.
Tips of feathers white metal.
Fernleaves and ribbon to be brass.
For Officers fernleaves & ribbon will be gold or gilt"
- Opposite: The sketches submitted for the proposed badges of the 13th (North Canterbury & Westland) Infantry Regiment, held by Archive NZ.
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Motto: KIA PONO TONU (Ever faithful).
Below are the rarest of the New Zealand Infantry Badges.
- Above: A bi-metal, 3 piece, die stamped, gilt brass and white metal Cap badge to the 13th (North Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. It has a maker plaque to back to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Two copper looped lugs and size 39mm by 35.5mm.
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- Above: An image of 6/3622 Private Joseph Benson, here wearing a set of 13th (North Canterbury) Infantry Regiment Cap and Collar badges. He is wearing both a Buglers and Trumpeters trade badge to both of his tunic sleeves. Part of "C" Company, 9th Reinforcements, he was sadly KIA'ed on the 22nd of Sept 1916. He would be likely a reinforcement here, as he served in the 10th (Nelson) Mounted Rifles and 12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiments prior to WW1 (Nelson Muesum collection 91661).
- Above: A pair of scarce white metal and gilt brass Collar badges to the 13th (North Canterbury) Infantry Regiment as you find them today. Finish a little worn.
Both have two D shaped copper lugs to back in a North/South configuration. Maker plaqued to center Huia feather to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 29mm by 24.5mm. |
- Above: This Collar has been re-painted with black paint to the feathers. This is how they would have looked, when first issued, but is not the original finish.
Two D shaped copper lugs to back in a North/South configuration. Maker plaqued to center Huia feather to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 29mm by 24.5mm. |
In January 1912, the regiment change its title to the 13th (North Canterbury and Westland) Infantry Regiment.
The regiment looked to change their badge, with a memo dated the 17th of June 1914 stated a reason for the change as follows:
"Enclosed is a complete set of cap and collars badges, for the adoption of which the Officer Commanding the 13th. (N. C. & W) Regiment desires approval.
It was found that the previous badge was unsatisfactory as the colour rubs off.
It is intended to give the old badge to the Cadet Companies affiliated to the Regiment.
Approval is recommended".
The below design was approved for the 13th Regt. on the 30th of June 1914.
In a memo dated the 7th of July 1914 it's noted:
"The description of the badge of the 13th (North Canterbury and Westland) Regiment on page 86 of the Army List will be altered to read "The Number of the Regiment encircled by fern fronds and surmounted by a Crown". Motto "Kia Ponu Tonu"".
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
The regiment looked to change their badge, with a memo dated the 17th of June 1914 stated a reason for the change as follows:
"Enclosed is a complete set of cap and collars badges, for the adoption of which the Officer Commanding the 13th. (N. C. & W) Regiment desires approval.
It was found that the previous badge was unsatisfactory as the colour rubs off.
It is intended to give the old badge to the Cadet Companies affiliated to the Regiment.
Approval is recommended".
The below design was approved for the 13th Regt. on the 30th of June 1914.
In a memo dated the 7th of July 1914 it's noted:
"The description of the badge of the 13th (North Canterbury and Westland) Regiment on page 86 of the Army List will be altered to read "The Number of the Regiment encircled by fern fronds and surmounted by a Crown". Motto "Kia Ponu Tonu"".
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
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- Opposite: A gilt brass and white metal Cap badge to the 13th (North Canterbury and Westland) Infantry Regiment. Maker plaque to "J R GAUNT LONDON" to behind crown and with two copper looped lugs to back. Size 43mm by 31mm.
- Above: A matching pair of gilt brass and white metal Collar badges to the 13th (North Canterbury and Westland) Infantry Regiment. Both have two D shaped copper looped lugs and a maker plaque to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 28mm by 27mm. |
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- Opposite: A slight difference in crown to this unmarked Cap badge to the 13th (North Canterbury and Westland) Infantry Regiment. Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back. Size 43mm by 31mm.
- Above: Like the Cap, these Collar badges are also unmarked to the 13th (North Canterbury and Westland) Infantry Regiment. D shaped copper looped lugs to back. Size 28mm by 27mm. |
During WW1 the 13th (North Canterbury and Westland) Infantry Regiment contributed to the NZEF in the:
- Canterbury Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (1/CIR) - 13 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (2/CIR) - 13 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (3/CIR) - 13 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
In 1921, the 12th (Nelson & Marlborough) Infantry Regiment merged with the 13th to form the 2nd Battalion, The Canterbury Regiment.
This changed again in June 1923 to The Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast Regiment.
- Canterbury Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (1/CIR) - 13 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (2/CIR) - 13 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Canterbury Infantry Regiment (3/CIR) - 13 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
In 1921, the 12th (Nelson & Marlborough) Infantry Regiment merged with the 13th to form the 2nd Battalion, The Canterbury Regiment.
This changed again in June 1923 to The Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast Regiment.
- Above: Sadly not a great image, but its of a gilt fired brass and Silver Cap badge to a Officer of the 13th (North Canterbury and Westland) Infantry Regiment. Two piece, with separate silver center. Two looped lugs to back, with a mark mark, impressed to back base to "J R GAUNT LONDON" (image from the internet).
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- Above Right: An image of 8420 Pte. Keith Lewis Newth of the 20th Battalion, here wearing a set of 13th badges to his Lemon Squeezer and tunic collar. Note the backing material to both Cap and Collars, which is likley Red or Scarlet for the colour of infantry. This is likely a early or pre-WW2 image. Keith appears to be a main body man (2NZEF), who was captured in 1941 in the Western Desert, and was only to return to New Zealand in April 1945 (Nelson Mueseum collection 196506).
In late 1938, the National Military Reserve (NMR) was formed.
It was a reserve force for the Territorial Army, which was to be called up in times of emergency.
They were issued and wore obsolete uniforms and webbing, but were also issued with badges which originated from 1911, yet had been made obsolete due to amalgamations of Regiments after the Great War, in the 1920's.
In the Southern Military District (covering the whole of the South Island of New Zealand), the following NMR units wore the 13th (North Canterbury and Westland) Infantry Cap badge from 1938 and into WW2:
- 17th Coy, Greymouth & Westport NMR
- Opposite: A die stamped gilt brass Cap badge to the 12th & 13th (Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast) Infantry Regiment. This is termed the "rough strike" type, with a semi-solid bronze also exisiting in similar style, but no Collars appear to have been issued. Two brass looped wire lugs to back of opposite badge. No maker mark with size 42mm by 33mm.
It was a reserve force for the Territorial Army, which was to be called up in times of emergency.
They were issued and wore obsolete uniforms and webbing, but were also issued with badges which originated from 1911, yet had been made obsolete due to amalgamations of Regiments after the Great War, in the 1920's.
In the Southern Military District (covering the whole of the South Island of New Zealand), the following NMR units wore the 13th (North Canterbury and Westland) Infantry Cap badge from 1938 and into WW2:
- 17th Coy, Greymouth & Westport NMR
- Opposite: A die stamped gilt brass Cap badge to the 12th & 13th (Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast) Infantry Regiment. This is termed the "rough strike" type, with a semi-solid bronze also exisiting in similar style, but no Collars appear to have been issued. Two brass looped wire lugs to back of opposite badge. No maker mark with size 42mm by 33mm.
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- Opposite and Above: An Officers gilt fired, Kings Crowned Cap and Collar badge set to the 12th & 13th (Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast) Infantry Regiment. Long loops to the Cap, while D shaped looped lugs to the Collars. No maker mark to either with size of Cap being 40mm by 34mm, while Collars are 30mm by 26mm (Note that the Collars are opposing, with the left (when worn - depicting the Stag facing the same way as the Cap) being the hardest to get).
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- Opposite and Above: An gilt fired Officers, Queens Crowned (post 1952) Cap and Collar badge set to the 12th & 13th (Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast) Infantry Regiment. Long loops to the Cap, while D shaped looped lugs to the Collars. Maker impressed to back of all to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size of Cap being 41mm by 33mm, while Collars are 31mm by 21mm
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Note that there are no standard, die stamped, gilt brass Queens Crown badges to the 12th & 13th (Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast) Infantry Regiment. Possibly the "rough strike", Kings Crown brass badge was worn post 1952 for some length until the Regiment became a Battalion of the Royal NZ Infantry Regiment.
In August 1947 the Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast Regiment was designated a Territorial Force (TF)
On the 1st of April 1964 it amalgamated with the Canterbury Regiment and became:
2 RNZIR – 2nd Battalion, (Canterbury, and Nelson-Marlborough and West Coast), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment.
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
- Opposite: A pair of embroidered and felt cloth shoulder titles worn post 1961 to 1994 to elements of the Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast Regiment of the 2 RNZIR. Size 28mm by 125mm.
In March 2013, the Regiment was further merged with the 4th Battalion (Otago and Southland), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment to form:
2nd/4th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (2/4 RNZIR)
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ / Logistic Company – Christchurch
- Alpha Company – Greymouth
- Bravo Company – Christchurch
- Charlie Company - Timaru
- Delta Company – Nelson
- Support Company - Christchurch / Blenheim /Ashburton
On the 1st of April 1964 it amalgamated with the Canterbury Regiment and became:
2 RNZIR – 2nd Battalion, (Canterbury, and Nelson-Marlborough and West Coast), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment.
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
- Opposite: A pair of embroidered and felt cloth shoulder titles worn post 1961 to 1994 to elements of the Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast Regiment of the 2 RNZIR. Size 28mm by 125mm.
In March 2013, the Regiment was further merged with the 4th Battalion (Otago and Southland), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment to form:
2nd/4th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (2/4 RNZIR)
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ / Logistic Company – Christchurch
- Alpha Company – Greymouth
- Bravo Company – Christchurch
- Charlie Company - Timaru
- Delta Company – Nelson
- Support Company - Christchurch / Blenheim /Ashburton
Fakes & Forgeries
Below is a fake or reproduction cap badge to the 12th & 13th (Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast) Infantry Regiment.
- Detail to front, though orangey-Yellow in colour, is not far off the originals.
- To back is stippled, with large flat areas around edges. To the botton right, is a raised section, where the excess brass has been filed down from the casting proccess. It lacks the detail, which a die-stamped version would have.
- Two small copper lugs, one soldered on, while the other is brazed.
- Size 41mm by 32.5mm.
- Detail to front, though orangey-Yellow in colour, is not far off the originals.
- To back is stippled, with large flat areas around edges. To the botton right, is a raised section, where the excess brass has been filed down from the casting proccess. It lacks the detail, which a die-stamped version would have.
- Two small copper lugs, one soldered on, while the other is brazed.
- Size 41mm by 32.5mm.
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14th (South Otago) Infantry Regiment.
The 14th Regiment (South Otago Rifles) was formed in 1911 from the 4th Battalion, Otago Rifles.
Headquarters were at Milton.
Headquarters were at Milton.
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- Opposite and Above: The original sketches of the design for the Cap (Left) and Collar (Above) which were approved by the G.O.C. on the 15th of Aug 1911.
They were describe as the following: "Cap Badge - A Kea (Nestor Notabilis) preparing to fly - symbolic of being prepared - over the number of the Regiment "XIV", with a wreath of the Red Rose, Shamrock and Thistle - symbolic of unity. Motto "Kia Kaha Ake (Be strong for ever) on a scroll below. |
Collar Badge - "Within a circle embossed with a wreath of Red Roses, Shamrock and Thistle - a Kea preparing to fly. Motto "Kia Kaha Ake" on a scroll below".
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Motto: AKE KIA KAHA (Forever be strong).
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Motto: AKE KIA KAHA (Forever be strong).
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- Above: A darkened, solid bronze Officers Cap badge to the 14th (South Otago) Infantry Regiment. Impressed to back to "J
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- Above: A darkened bronze Officers Collar badge pair to the 14th (South Otago) Infantry Regiment. Both are impressed to back to "J R GAUNT LONDON", with the mark on the back of Kea on both. A pair of D shaped copper looped lugs to each(image from the internet).
(continued) R GAUNT LONDON", on the back of the "X" in "XIV". It should have a pair of tangs or blades to back, but both have been snapped off. Size 46mm by 38mm. |
- Above: An image of 8/1034 Major (later Lt-Colonel) Geoffrey Samuel Abel-Smith (CMG, DSO & MID x3), here a member of the 14th (South Otago) Infantry Regiment. Geoffrey saw service also during the Anglo-Boer War, as a Lieutenant (9th Contingent) and is wearing his SA medal ribbon. Note he is wearing his Collars, with the Kea flying outwards ((© IWM HU 126597).
- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the 14th (South Otago) Infantry Regiment. This is die stamped, with two copper looped lugs to back. Maker plaque to base to "J R GAUNT LONDON" and size 46mm by 38mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass Collar badge pair to the 14th (South Otago) Infantry Regiment. Both are die stamped, with two Copper D shaped lugs to back and a maker plaque of "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 28mm by 28mm.
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- Above Right: A image entitled Mr McLean, who is a returned soldier in 1917. His is wearing his 14th (South Otago) Regiment Cap and Collars, as well as his large NZ RSA badge to above his right breast pocket. Note the "NEW ZEALAND" title to his shoulder boards (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-L3393).
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- Above: A opposing pair of gilt Collar badges to the 14th (South Otago) Infantry Regiment. Both are unmarked and have two copper looped lugs to back. Size 28mm by 28mm.
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- Above: A pair of unmarked gilt brass Cap badges to the 14th (South Otago) Infantry Regiment. Slight differences in the bird (Kea), and floral wreath. To back both have different copper looped lugs. No maker mark with size of left badge being 47mm by 38mm, while the right is 47mm by 38mm.
- Above: A unmarked Silver Collar badge to the 14th (South Otago) Infantry Regiment. Two Silver loops to back, but no maker or hallmark. Size 26mm by 31mm.
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- Opposite & Above: A matching set of non-void gilt brass Cap and Collar badges to the 14th (South Otago) Infantry Regiment. Short copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark. Size of Cap 46mm by 39mm, Collars 27mm by 30.5mm.
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- Above: A darkened coppery bronze Officers (?) Cap badge to the 14th (South Otago) Infantry Regiment. This is die stamped, with a hollow back. Two tangs or blades were to back, but have snapped off. No maker mark and size 46mm by 38mm.
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- Above: A darkened, gilt brass Cap badge to the 14th (South Otago) Infantry Regiment. Die stamped, its lacking the voiding to the sides of the roman numerals. The darkened finish appears to be applied as a paint. Two copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark (image from the internet).
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- Above: A single piece, gilt brass Cap badge to the 14th (South Otago) Infantry Regiment. Again no voiding to sides of roman numerals. To back are two tangs or copper blades, one of which has snapped off (see below). No maker mark (image from the internet).
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- Opposite: A image of the back of the above gilt brass 14th (South Otago) Infantry Regiment Cap badge, just showing the blades or tangs in copper. The right has broken off, a common fault if bent back and forth a number of times (image from the internet).
- Above: A WW1 image of a group of Officers and men of the 14th (South Otago) Infantry Regiment. All are wearing their Caps and Collars with their Lemon Squeezer. Sadly no names or date.
During WW1 the 14th (South Otago) Infantry Regiment contributed to the NZEF in the:
- Otago Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Otago Infantry Regiment (1/OIR) - 14 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Otago Infantry Regiment (2/OIR) - 14 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Otago Infantry Regiment (3/OIR) - 14 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
In 1921 the 14th (South Otago) amalgamated with the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment and became The Southland Regiment, and its badges ceased to be worn.
During WW1 the 14th (South Otago) Infantry Regiment contributed to the NZEF in the:
- Otago Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Otago Infantry Regiment (1/OIR) - 14 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Otago Infantry Regiment (2/OIR) - 14 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Otago Infantry Regiment (3/OIR) - 14 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
In 1921 the 14th (South Otago) amalgamated with the 8th (Southland) Infantry Regiment and became The Southland Regiment, and its badges ceased to be worn.
15th (North Auckland) Infantry Regiment.
The 15th (North Auckland) Infantry Regiment formed in 1911 as a new unit.
Headquarters were in Whangarei.
On 10th of July 1911, their badge was described as
"No. of Regiment - 15 - flanked by fern fronds and sun surmounted by a crown whole surrounded by a circle bearing the words "North Auckland". Cap badge smaller than Collar. Motto to be selected later.
The G.O.C. approves this badge subject to the following.- "There is no particular necessity to have a motto, but if one is wanted it must be decided now and worked into the badge, which should then be submitted again. The crown is wrong - it must be a Tudor Crown (Sketch attached).
Accordingly please report the wishes of O.C. Regiment with regard to motto".
A memo dated the 4th of Oct 1911, gives permission for the Regiments motto "Pour Devoir" to be inserted into the already approved design of the badge.
- Opposite: A undated hand drawn design for the proposed 15th (North Auckland) Infantry Regiment badge found in the New Zealand Archives.
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Motto: POUR DEVOIR (For right).
Headquarters were in Whangarei.
On 10th of July 1911, their badge was described as
"No. of Regiment - 15 - flanked by fern fronds and sun surmounted by a crown whole surrounded by a circle bearing the words "North Auckland". Cap badge smaller than Collar. Motto to be selected later.
The G.O.C. approves this badge subject to the following.- "There is no particular necessity to have a motto, but if one is wanted it must be decided now and worked into the badge, which should then be submitted again. The crown is wrong - it must be a Tudor Crown (Sketch attached).
Accordingly please report the wishes of O.C. Regiment with regard to motto".
A memo dated the 4th of Oct 1911, gives permission for the Regiments motto "Pour Devoir" to be inserted into the already approved design of the badge.
- Opposite: A undated hand drawn design for the proposed 15th (North Auckland) Infantry Regiment badge found in the New Zealand Archives.
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Motto: POUR DEVOIR (For right).
- Above: A darkened brass, Officers Cap badge to the 15th (North Auckland) Infantry Regiment, solid, with two tangs to back. Sadly one has broken off. Impressed to "J R GAUNT LONDON" to back. Size 32mm in diameter.
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- Above: A pair of non-matching darkened Collar badges to the 15th (North Auckland) Infantry Regiment.
The left is a die stamped darkened copper/bronze collar which has a Gaunt plaque to back. Two D shaped copper lugs, and size 24mm in diameter. To right is a solid to back Collar and impressed to "J R GAUNT LONDON" to back. Two D shaped copper looped lugs and size 24mm in diameter. |
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- Opposite and Above: A die stamped, other ranks, gilt brass Cap and Collar set to the 15th (North Auckland) Infantry Regiment, with J R Gaunt plaques to back. All have a pair of D shaped copper looped lugs. Cap size is 32mm in diameter, while Collars are 24mm in diameter.
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- Above: A die stamped, gilt brass Cap badge to the 15th (North Auckland) Infantry Regiment. No maker mark, but likely Gaunt. Two D shaped copper looped lugs and 33mm in diameter.
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- Above Right: A die stamped, gilt brass Cap badge to the 15th (North Auckland) Infantry Regiment. Both lugs have been clipped off to back, and a loop affixed to top to allow it to hang as a pendent or pinned as a lapel badge. Maker plaqued to back to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 43mm by 32mm.
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- Above: An image of Lieutenant Knight of the 15th (North Auckland) Infantry Regiment. This appears to be an early image due to the cut of his tunic, but the photo is dated 1917. He wears a darkened set of Cap and Collars to the 15th, with 2 pips to his cuff rank (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-K2800).
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- Above: An image of 12/1975 Private Charles Hartley of the 15th (North Auckland) Infantry Regiment. Charles served 4 years overseas and happily returned to New Zealand in 1919. He is wearing a gilt brass set of Cap and Collar badges to the 15th. Note he has a 1914/15 Star ribbon to his tunic, and also a brass wound stripe to his left sleeve (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-H4295).
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During WW1 the 15th (North Auckland) Infantry Regiment contributed to the NZEF in the:
- Auckland Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (1/AIR) - 15 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (2/AIR) - 15 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (3/AIR) - 15 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
In 1921 the title of the regiment changed to 3rd Battalion, Auckland Regiment.
In 1923, it changed again to the North Auckland Regiment.
During WW2, the 15th contributed to the following overseas Battalions of the 2NZEF:
- 18th Battalion - Briefly, until the 5 Oct 1942
- 21st Battalion
- 24th Battalion
- 29th Battalion
In August 1947 the North Auckland Regiment was designated a Territorial Force (TF)
In 1951, the Regiment was renamed to the 15th (Northland) Infantry Regiment, and a Queens crown Cap and Collar badge were issued.
- Auckland Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (1/AIR) - 15 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (2/AIR) - 15 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (3/AIR) - 15 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
In 1921 the title of the regiment changed to 3rd Battalion, Auckland Regiment.
In 1923, it changed again to the North Auckland Regiment.
During WW2, the 15th contributed to the following overseas Battalions of the 2NZEF:
- 18th Battalion - Briefly, until the 5 Oct 1942
- 21st Battalion
- 24th Battalion
- 29th Battalion
In August 1947 the North Auckland Regiment was designated a Territorial Force (TF)
In 1951, the Regiment was renamed to the 15th (Northland) Infantry Regiment, and a Queens crown Cap and Collar badge were issued.
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On the 1st of April 1964 it amalgamated with the Auckland Regiment (Countess of Ranfurly's Own and became:
3 RNZIR – 3rd Battalion, (Auckland (Countess of Ranfurly's Own) and Northland), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
- Opposite: A single embroidered and felt cloth shoulder titles worn post 1961 to 1994 to elements of the Northland Regiment of the 3 RNZIR. Size 28mm by 125mm.
In March 2013, the Regiment was further merged with the 6th Battalion (Hauraki), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment to form:
3rd/6th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (3/6 RNZIR)
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ / Support / Logistic Company – Arch Hill - Auckland
- Alpha Company – Whangarei
- Bravo Company – Fort Cautley - Auckland
- Charlie Company – Arch Hill - Auckland
- Delta Company - Papakura
3 RNZIR – 3rd Battalion, (Auckland (Countess of Ranfurly's Own) and Northland), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment
Again it was designated a Territorial Force.
- Opposite: A single embroidered and felt cloth shoulder titles worn post 1961 to 1994 to elements of the Northland Regiment of the 3 RNZIR. Size 28mm by 125mm.
In March 2013, the Regiment was further merged with the 6th Battalion (Hauraki), Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment to form:
3rd/6th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (3/6 RNZIR)
It is a Reserve battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment with buildings/deployment in NZ as follows:
- Battalion HQ / Support / Logistic Company – Arch Hill - Auckland
- Alpha Company – Whangarei
- Bravo Company – Fort Cautley - Auckland
- Charlie Company – Arch Hill - Auckland
- Delta Company - Papakura
Fakes & Forgeries
A interesting fake or reproduction of the cap badge to the 15th (North Auckland) Infantry Regiment.
- Usually the cast mark is to the back, but on this fake, its to the top, front, with a large section of the border missing.
- Colour again is a orangey-yellow, with stippling and bumps.
- To back is the same again, stippled.
- Two small copper lugs, brazed on.
- Size 31.5mm diameter.
- Usually the cast mark is to the back, but on this fake, its to the top, front, with a large section of the border missing.
- Colour again is a orangey-yellow, with stippling and bumps.
- To back is the same again, stippled.
- Two small copper lugs, brazed on.
- Size 31.5mm diameter.
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16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment.
The 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment formed in 1911 as a new unit.
Headquarters were in Hamilton.
Headquarters were in Hamilton.
On the 10th of July 1911, their badge was described as
"Arm grasping Maori spear over letters N.Z. flanked by fern fronds and surmounted by crown. Motto "Ka Whawhai Tonu Ake Ake" & "16th (Waikato) Regiment" on scrolls at base.
Collar Badges.- similar removing omitting fern fronds and name of Regiment and substituting Roman numerals XVI for letters N.Z.
The G.O.C considers the proposed badge rather large and a bit complicated but approves same subject to the omission of the 1st N.Z. and being made a little smaller".
- Opposite: A sketch of the proposed 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment badge held by Archive NZ.
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Motto: KA WHAWHAI TONU AKE AKE (We shall fight for ever and ever).
"Arm grasping Maori spear over letters N.Z. flanked by fern fronds and surmounted by crown. Motto "Ka Whawhai Tonu Ake Ake" & "16th (Waikato) Regiment" on scrolls at base.
Collar Badges.- similar removing omitting fern fronds and name of Regiment and substituting Roman numerals XVI for letters N.Z.
The G.O.C considers the proposed badge rather large and a bit complicated but approves same subject to the omission of the 1st N.Z. and being made a little smaller".
- Opposite: A sketch of the proposed 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment badge held by Archive NZ.
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Motto: KA WHAWHAI TONU AKE AKE (We shall fight for ever and ever).
- Above: A darkened bronze Officers Cap badge to the 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment. Solid to back, and impressed to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Two tangs or blades to back. Size 41mm by 37mm.
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- Above Right: An image of 11363 Lieutenant Colonel Roy William Cumming, of the 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment. He is wearing a darkened set of Cap and Collar badges to the 16th. Image is dated 1916, so likely taken while he was a member of "A" Company, 12th Reinforcements (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-C0347).
- Above: A solid back bronze Collar badge to the 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment. Two D shaped copper lugs in a East/West configuration to back, along with the impressed maker details for "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 28mm by 28mm.
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- Opposite: A bi-metal Officers Gilt fired brass and silver Cap badge to the 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment. Solid to back, with two long looped lugs. No maker mark. Size 41mm by 36mm.
- Above: A matching opposing pair of Officers gilt fired brass and silver collar badges to the 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment. Two looped lugs in a East/West configuration to back, with no maker mark (image from the internet). |
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Opposite & Above: A gilt brass Cap and opposing Collar badge pair to the 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment. All have a maker plaqued to back to "J R GAUNT LONDON". All have Copper looped lugs to back. Size of Cap 41mm by 36mm, Collars 30mm by 28mm.
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Opposite & Above: A darkened brass Cap and opposing gilt Collar badge pair to the 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment. All have copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Size of Cap 41.5mm by 36mm, Collars 29mm by 29mm.
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- Opposite: A image of 12/704 Sgt Frederick George Bennett, wearing his 16th (Wakatio) Cap badge and opposing collars. Note he also has a separate "16" to his shoulder boards and a curved brass "NZR" shoulder title.
Fred left commenced his service on the 14th of August 1914, as a private, and was rapidly promoted to Corporal (17th of Aug 1914) and Sergeant (1st Sept 1914), and then left with the main body on 16th of October for Egypt, where he arrived on the 4th of Dec 1914.
Fred landed at Gallipoli on the 25th of April as part of the Auckland Infantry Brigade. He was sadly shot on the day in the shoulder.
He was evacuated out to No. 1 Australian General Hospital by the 30th of April 1915.
Deemed medically unfit for active service, but mediaclly fit for Civilain service, he was sent home to New Zealand on the 7th of Aug 1915, and discharged from the New Zealand Army in NZ on the 23rd of Dec 1915 (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 7003-320).
Fred left commenced his service on the 14th of August 1914, as a private, and was rapidly promoted to Corporal (17th of Aug 1914) and Sergeant (1st Sept 1914), and then left with the main body on 16th of October for Egypt, where he arrived on the 4th of Dec 1914.
Fred landed at Gallipoli on the 25th of April as part of the Auckland Infantry Brigade. He was sadly shot on the day in the shoulder.
He was evacuated out to No. 1 Australian General Hospital by the 30th of April 1915.
Deemed medically unfit for active service, but mediaclly fit for Civilain service, he was sent home to New Zealand on the 7th of Aug 1915, and discharged from the New Zealand Army in NZ on the 23rd of Dec 1915 (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 7003-320).
- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment.
Note the non-voided crown and lack of fretting to lower banner. To back is a brass slider, with a maker mark which has been scored out to back. Size 41mm by 37mm. |
- Above: A Queens crown version of the to the 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment Cap badge. Solid to back, with two looped lugs. Maker impressed to back to "R F Senior Auckland" or Richard Fitzgerald Senior of Senior Badges Ltd (Alan Leitch Collection).
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During WW1 the 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment contributed to the NZEF in the:
- Auckland Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (1/AIR) - 16 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (2/AIR) - 16 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (3/AIR) - 16 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
In 1921 the title of the regiment changed to The Waikato Regiment.
During WW2, the 16th contributed to the following overseas Battalions of the 2NZEF:
- 18th Battalion - Breifly, until the 5 Oct 1942
- 21st Battalion
- 24th Battalion
- 29th Battalion
The 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment was absorbed into the 1st Armoured Regiment in 1950, and became the 2nd Armoured Squadron (Waikato) Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps.
- Auckland Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (1/AIR) - 16 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (2/AIR) - 16 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Auckland Infantry Regiment (3/AIR) - 16 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
In 1921 the title of the regiment changed to The Waikato Regiment.
During WW2, the 16th contributed to the following overseas Battalions of the 2NZEF:
- 18th Battalion - Breifly, until the 5 Oct 1942
- 21st Battalion
- 24th Battalion
- 29th Battalion
The 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment was absorbed into the 1st Armoured Regiment in 1950, and became the 2nd Armoured Squadron (Waikato) Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps.
Fakes & Forgeries
Below is a fake or reproduction cap badge to the 16th (Waikato) Infantry Regiment.
- Detail to front is OK, though there is some distortion to crown shape to top.
- Colour is a orangey-yellow.
- To back is stippled, and lacks detail. There is a flat area to base where the excess brass has been filed down from the casting proccess.
- Two small copper lugs, soldered on.
- Size 42mm by 36mm.
- Detail to front is OK, though there is some distortion to crown shape to top.
- Colour is a orangey-yellow.
- To back is stippled, and lacks detail. There is a flat area to base where the excess brass has been filed down from the casting proccess.
- Two small copper lugs, soldered on.
- Size 42mm by 36mm.
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17th (Ruahine) Infantry Regiment.
"The Ruahine had existed as a Volunteer unit based around Wellington prior to 1911.
In 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.
On the 17th of July 1914 approval was granted for the badge and motto.
The following letter was written in support of the approval on the 8th of July 1914.
"To the Officer Commanding Wellington Infantry Brigade.
Sir, I have the honour to enclose a more finished design for our Regt. badge, and trust that it will be accepted.
The motto chosen is "Ad Unum Omnes", meaning "All to a man", or "Presenting a solid front". As a matter of fact the motto is capable of a variety of meanings synonomous with those given above.
I shall be glad if I may have a reply re Badge, Motto and Honarary Colonel, in the case of the first, I am desirous of placing the order with a home firm for delievery as early as possible.
I have the honour to be
Sir
Your obediant servant
A B Charters
Lieut-Col
Comdg. 17th (Ruahine) Regt"
- Above Right: The original drawing attched to the letter by Lieut-Col Charters on the 8th of July, showing the badge which would become the 17th's.
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Headquarters were based in Masterton.
Motto: AD UNUM OMNES (Together as one).
In 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.
On the 17th of July 1914 approval was granted for the badge and motto.
The following letter was written in support of the approval on the 8th of July 1914.
"To the Officer Commanding Wellington Infantry Brigade.
Sir, I have the honour to enclose a more finished design for our Regt. badge, and trust that it will be accepted.
The motto chosen is "Ad Unum Omnes", meaning "All to a man", or "Presenting a solid front". As a matter of fact the motto is capable of a variety of meanings synonomous with those given above.
I shall be glad if I may have a reply re Badge, Motto and Honarary Colonel, in the case of the first, I am desirous of placing the order with a home firm for delievery as early as possible.
I have the honour to be
Sir
Your obediant servant
A B Charters
Lieut-Col
Comdg. 17th (Ruahine) Regt"
- Above Right: The original drawing attched to the letter by Lieut-Col Charters on the 8th of July, showing the badge which would become the 17th's.
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
Headquarters were based in Masterton.
Motto: AD UNUM OMNES (Together as one).
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, were the British Sun hats, and the gift included a large badge to fit this hat. This is unique, as no other NZ Regiment was issued with a Sun hat badge.
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, were the British Sun hats, and the gift included a large badge to fit this hat. This is unique, as no other NZ Regiment was issued with a Sun hat badge.
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- Opposite & Above: Two darkened bronze, semi-solid Officers Sun Hat Helmet Badges. Both have a small brass plaque to back of wreath to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Two copper looped lugs to back. Note the left is on part of a sample card, with Gaunt stock number of "J2636a" and the date "Nov 4/15" for 4th of November 1915. Size 60mm by 73mm.
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- Above: A other ranks, gilt brass 17th (Ruahine) Infantry Regiment Helmet badge. Two large copper loops to back, with a small makers plaque to back center of the star to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 60mm by 73mm.
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- Above: A other ranks, sand cast 17th (Ruahine) Infantry Regiment Helmet badge. Manufactured in the middle east (most likely Egypt) while the regiment was stationed there. Correctly cast in copper looped lugs, with a Gaunt plaque also cast into the back. The original cast would have been taken from a other ranks, die stamped gilt brass badge. Size 58mm by 70mm.
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- Above: A Officers, darkened bronze, semi-solid Cap or Collar badge (worn as either) to the 17th (Ruahine) Infantry Regiment. Two D shaped lugs to back and impressed to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 30mm by 37mm.
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- Above & Right: A Cap and Collar badge set in brass to the 17th (Ruahine) Infantry Regiment. What is unique about them is they have been brooched.
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(continued) There is much debate on whether Officers and some Men preferred to have this for easy of removal from their uniforms. These are all maker plaqued to "J R GAUNT LONDON" to back, on the upper left of the wreath. Size 30mm by 37mm.
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- Above & Right: A Cap and /or Collar badge set to the 17th (Ruahine) Infantry Regiment.
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(continued) All are gilt brass, with two D shaped copper looped lugs to back. Marker plaqued to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 30mm by 37mm.
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- Above: A unmarked, gilt brass Cap or Collar badge to the 7th (Ruahine) Infantry Regiment. Two D shaped copper lugs, so likely Gaunt. Size 30mm by 37mm.
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- Above: A variation. A gilt brass Cap or Collar badge to the 17th (Ruahine) Infantry Regiment. Two copper looped lugs to back. Note the fern wreath, and the rounding of the fronds. Size 31mm by 37mm.
- 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". |
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During WW1 the 17th (Ruahine) Infantry Regiment contributed to the NZEF in the:
- Wellington Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (1/WIR) - 17 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (2/WIR) - 17 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (3/WIR) - 17 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
The 17th (Ruahine) Infantry 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 and named the "17th (Ruahine) Regiment".
It served with the 3rd New Zealand Division in the Pacific, but was stripped of men by 1943 (due to shortages), and existed on paper only until 1948, when it was formally disbanded.
- Wellington Battalion - Oct 1914 to April 1916
1st Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (1/WIR) - 17 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
2nd Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (2/WIR) - 17 Coy - March 1916 to End of Hostilities.
3rd Battalion - Wellington Infantry Regiment (3/WIR) - 17 Coy - March 1917 to April 1918.
The 17th (Ruahine) Infantry 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 and named the "17th (Ruahine) Regiment".
It served with the 3rd New Zealand Division in the Pacific, but was stripped of men by 1943 (due to shortages), and existed on paper only until 1948, when it was formally disbanded.
Fakes & Forgeries
Below is a fake or reproduction cap badge to the 17th (Ruahine) Infantry Regiment.
- Detail to front is OK though not crisp to edges
- Colour is a orangey-yellow.
- To back is stippled, and pitted, and just lacks detail. There is a flat area to base where the excess brass has been filed down from the casting proccess. The cast mark of a outline of a Gaunt plaque also looks to have been there.
- Two small copper lugs, soldered on.
- Size 30mm by 36mm.
- Detail to front is OK though not crisp to edges
- Colour is a orangey-yellow.
- To back is stippled, and pitted, and just lacks detail. There is a flat area to base where the excess brass has been filed down from the casting proccess. The cast mark of a outline of a Gaunt plaque also looks to have been there.
- Two small copper lugs, soldered on.
- Size 30mm by 36mm.
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The Infantry Puggaree.
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Top, Above & Opposite: A early puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat in the colours of the New Zealand Infantry. Khaki/Scarlet/Khaki. The scarlet appears to be a velvet like material, while the two strips of Khaki are Wool. It is folded side-on.
Opposite shows the faint "W (broadarrow) D" for the War Department in Black ink. Sadly the rest of the detail is too faint. Above shows the other side with a "6 3/4" in black ink and a "3" in purple. Someone has written "453" just after the purple 3 in pencil. British made/take on the NZ Pug? |
Above & Opposite: A puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat in the colours of the New Zealand Infantry. Khaki/Scarlet/Khaki. This scarlet is like Khaki material, in wool. It is folded front-on.
Opposite shows the faint size of "6 7/8" in purple ink. Note the lining is a much paler colour than the one above. No other marks, but it looks to have come in contact with rain and water, and the scarlet has leaked through from the other side. |
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Above & Above Right: 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 H.G. possibly standing for "Home Guard", size in purple ink to "7 7/8".
- Opposite: A early, cloth type puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat in the colours of the New Zealand Infantry. Lighter material used instead of Wool, with a gilt brass 12th (Nelson) Infantry Cap badge to front (image from the internet). |
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The Infantry Puggaree was worn prior to WW1 and up to 1966 by the New Zealand Infantry. During WW1, this colour combination was also worn by:
- New Zealand Rifle Brigade
- New Zealand Machine Gun Corps
- New Zealand Pioneer Battalion
- New Zealand Cyclist Corps
Home Service Branch, NZEF Puggaree
- New Zealand Rifle Brigade
- New Zealand Machine Gun Corps
- New Zealand Pioneer Battalion
- New Zealand Cyclist Corps
Home Service Branch, NZEF Puggaree
- Above: A puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat in the colours of the Home Service branch of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force (N.Z.E.F.), and worn from 1917, Khaki/Black/Khaki. Not marked and well worn/dirty. This could be a NZE puggaree, with the center colour "Dark Blue" changing more "Black" in colour with dirt and time. It is folded side-on.
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- Above: An article from the "Territorial" column of the Evening Star dated the 28th of Aug 1917, indicating that the issue and wearing of the Home Service Pug was likely shortlived, and instead replaced by the SD or Standard Dress peaked Cap (Paperspast - Evening Star, Issue 16514, 28 August 1917, Page 3)
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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.
Motto: SOYES FERME (Stand Fast).
Nicknamed "The Dinks", they were disbanded on the 4th of Feb 1919 in the UK.
Motto: SOYES FERME (Stand Fast).
- Above: A single, darkened bronze Officers Collar badge to the New Zealand Rifle Brigade. Maker plaqued to back to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 38mm by 26mm.
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- Above: A single, darkened brass Other ranks Cap badge to the New Zealand Rifle Brigade. Maker plaqued to back to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 38mm by 26mm.
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- Above: A opposing pair of darkened brass Collar badges (note the right can be worn as a Cap badge) to the New Zealand Rifle Brigade. Maker plaqued to back to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Note the pennant to top, which is wavy. The New Zealand made, reinforcement issued badges are in the same design, but tend to have a straight pennant to top. Size 38mm by 26mm.
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- Above: A superb image of Private Furley of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade. He wears a NZ Rifle Brigade Collar badge (facing the other way) shoulder titles and the British pattern of black bone Rifle Brigade buttons. Pinned above to his right tunic pocket is a French Croix de Guerre 1914-18 with bronze star, which was awarded to some New Zealand Soldiers by the French Government (Auckland Library collection 31-F4243).
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- Above: A image of Sergeant Major Hume of the 1st Battalion (black square worn on his sleeve as a diamond) of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade. Photo is said to have been taken in 1917-1918, and clearly he has returned to New Zealand (photo taken in Auckland). Note the wound strip to bottom left sleeve, the darkened "NZRB" shoudler title and the British Rifle Brigade Bone Buttons (no "NZ" - Auckland Library collection 31-H4323).
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- Above: A single, darkened brass Other ranks Collar badge to the New Zealand Rifle Brigade. No maker, but with D shaped copper lugs to back, its likely Gaunt. Size 38mm by 26mm.
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- Above: A single, darkened brass Other ranks Cap badge to the New Zealand Rifle Brigade. No maker mark, but round copper lugs with feet to base. Size 40mm by 25mm.
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- Above: A opposing pair of darkened brass Collar badges (note the right can be worn as a Cap badge) to the New Zealand Rifle Brigade. No maker mark, with rounded copper lugs which have feet. Size 40mm by 25mm.
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- Above: An image of Rifleman Robertson of the 1st Battalion, New Zealand Rifle Brigade. He wears a darkened set of Cap and Collar badges to the NZRB, as well as a darkened "NZRB" title to his shoulder board. He has a 1st Battalion patch to his upper right arm, as well as a 3 year overseas service chevron to its cuff. He is also wearing the British type bone Rifle Brigade buttons and his large NZ Returned Soldiers Association badge. (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-R4622).
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- Above: An image of 25716 Sergeant Edward Charles Jeffs of the 2nd Battalion, New Zealand Rifle Brigade. He wears a darkened set of Cap and Collar badges to the NZRB, as well as a darkened "NZRB" title to his shoulder board. He has a 2nd Battalion patch to his upper right arm, as well as a 3 year overseas service chevron to his cuff. He is also wearing the British type bone Rifle Brigade buttons. To his left chest, above his pocket is his Meritorious Service Medal (MSM) ribbon (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-J4370).
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- Above Left: A fixed shank 23mm NZRB Button - maker marked to "FIRMIN & SONS LD, HALESOWEN".
- Above Right: A fixed shank 17mm NZRB Button - maker marked to "FIRMIN & SONS LD, HALESOWEN". |
- Above: Black bone buttons to the New Zealand Rifle Brigade.
- Left: A fixed shank 23mm NZRB Button - maker marked to "JAS GROVE & SONS, HALESOWEN". - Right: A fixed shank 23mm NZRB Button - maker marked to "GROVE & SONS, HALESOWEN". |
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- Above Left & Right: For many years collectors wondered whether the above and below "NZ" Rifle Brigade button was actually worn. So far, rare examples of uniforms which came to market and many photos of the time, just showed the British Rifle Brigade buttons, without the "NZ", being worn. Here, above is a rare image of Private McNeill of the 1st Battalion, New Zealand Rifle Brigade wearing two different sized buttons (a 23mm and a 17mm). It is dated 1917-1919. I presume he is a returned soldier as he wears his formation patch to his upper sleeve, and not to his hat. He has a pair of NZRB Collars and a curved brass "NZRB" title to his shoulder board.
From the image you can see his top button, just below his collar. has the "NZ", while his left tunic pocket has the smaller 17mm "NZ" button. The below, center button of his uniform has British made Rifle Brigade button sewn on.
The current theory is that the "NZ" marked black buttons were a late war issued item, or private purchase. The NZRB used British issued tunics with the standard British Rifle Brigade buttons for much of the war. It is unknown as to why Private McNeill seems to have gained a mixture of both to his tunic (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-N4502).
From the image you can see his top button, just below his collar. has the "NZ", while his left tunic pocket has the smaller 17mm "NZ" button. The below, center button of his uniform has British made Rifle Brigade button sewn on.
The current theory is that the "NZ" marked black buttons were a late war issued item, or private purchase. The NZRB used British issued tunics with the standard British Rifle Brigade buttons for much of the war. It is unknown as to why Private McNeill seems to have gained a mixture of both to his tunic (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-N4502).
- Above Left: A fixed shank 23mm NZRB Button. No maker mark, but to back is a circular ridge.
- Above Right: A fixed shank 17mm NZRB Button. No maker mark, but to back is a circular ridge. Other NZRB sizes & maker marks (B Jones collection): 11.5mm (no maker),12mm "Firmins & sons", 12.4mm (no maker) As mentioned above, the NZRB abandoned issuing the New Zealand Rifle Brigade Button on its tunics, and instead the British Rifle Brigade buttons were worn. |
- Above Left: A fixed shank 23mm British Rifle Brigade Button - maker marked to "FIRMIN & SONS LD, HALESOWEN".
- Above Right: A fixed shank 23mm British Rifle Brigade Button (note the "RB" to front)- No maker mark. - Center: A fixed shank 16mm British Rifle Brigade Button - No maker mark. |
Other RB British made horn buttons (B Jones collection)
6.7mm (no maker), 23.3mm (no maker), 24mm (no maker)
6.7mm (no maker), 23.3mm (no maker), 24mm (no maker)
- Above: A set of paper embossed seals, used on letters and correspondence from the New Zealand Rifle Brigade. They are adhesive backed (like a postage stamp), and with time have glued themselves together. No maker marks, but interesting to see the units colours. Size 32mm by 23mm.
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- Above: A piece of trench art? MG/NZRB so Machine Gun, New Zealand Rifle Brigade. Maker marked to "J R GAUNT LONDON" to back of title. Size 41mm by 53mm.
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- Above: A pair of straight Officer titles to the New Zealand Rifle Brigade. Top is a full size, hand cut darkened shoulder title, with two looped lugs to back. Size 15mm by 53mm. Bottom is a smaller hand cut version, with brooch fitting to back. Size 11mm by 40mm. Both are not maker marked.
- Opposite: A pair of cloth shoulder boards which have been removed from a uniform. To top is a small size NZRB black bone button, while at base are a pair of darkened "NZRB" (New Zealand Rifle Brigade) brass curved shoulder titles (image from the internet). |
- Above: A darkened pair of brass Shoulder titles to the New Zealand Rifle Brigade. Both have two hex, brass lugs to back and the maker mark of "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 15mm by 53mm.
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- Above: A darkened pair of brass Shoulder titles to the New Zealand Rifle Brigade. Both have two rounded copper lugs to back and the maker mark of "STOKES & SONS". Size 15mm by 55mm.
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- Above: A darkened pair of brass Shoulder titles to the New Zealand Rifle Brigade. Both have two hthin ribbon type lugs to back and the maker mark of "TIPTAFT B'HAM". Size 15mm by 53mm.
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- Above Top: A large NZRB darkened brass shoulder title. Note the angular ends to the "Z". Two hex type brass lugs to back, no maker mark. Size 16mm by 58mm.
Above Bottom: A NZRB darkened brass shoulder title. Two hex type brass lugs to back, no maker mark. Size 15mm by 53mm. |
- Above Top: A NZRB darkened brass shoulder title. Two hex type brass lugs to back, no maker mark. Size 15mm by 55mm.
- Above Bottom: A NZRB darkened cast brass shoulder title. No lugs to back, which have snapped off, no maker mark. Size 14mm by 50mm. |
- Above: A NZRB darkened brass shoulder title. Two hex type brass lugs to back, no maker mark. Size 16mm by 55mm.
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- Above: A WW1 issued leather Holster to 44565 2nd Lieutenant Arnold Thomson. Arnold was served with the 2nd Battalion of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade.
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- Above: Same Holster, but with a picture of the back, complete with cleaning rod for the Pistol. Note the leather flap has been modified and cut down to a single, narrow strap.
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- Above: Arnold marked his holster with his details to back.
- Opposite: Arnold was originally from Dunedin, but moved to Hawera, in the North Island of New Zealand, and was a qualified Solicitor. He sadly died of wounds on the 27th of August 1918, aged 32. He is buried at Bagneux British Cemetery, Gezaincourt, Somme in France. The photo shows him wearing a 28th Reinforcement Cap badge to his Lemon Squeezer. |
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As mentioned above, in 1938, the National Military Reserve (NMR) was formed.
It was a reserve force for the Territorial Army, which was to be called up in times of emergency.
They were issued and wore obsolete uniforms and webbing, but were also issued with badges which originated from 1911, yet had been made obsolete due to amalgamations of Regiments after the Great War, in the 1920's.
Recorded "re-issue" of badges are as follows:
- Northern Military District (covering top half of the North Island of New Zealand) - wore the badge of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade (the NZRB disbanded in 1919).
- Central Military District (covering the bottom half of the North Island of New Zealand) - wore the badge of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade (the NZRB disbanded in 1919).
(noted in New Zealand Army Distinguished Patches 1911-1991 - Page 61 by M Thomas & C Lord, "It was also mentioned that due to stocks of the right-hand collar badges of the NZ Rifle Brigade being limited, when exhausted, it would be necessary for the left-hand collar badge to be worn on both sides of the collar and also the cap badge").
It was a reserve force for the Territorial Army, which was to be called up in times of emergency.
They were issued and wore obsolete uniforms and webbing, but were also issued with badges which originated from 1911, yet had been made obsolete due to amalgamations of Regiments after the Great War, in the 1920's.
Recorded "re-issue" of badges are as follows:
- Northern Military District (covering top half of the North Island of New Zealand) - wore the badge of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade (the NZRB disbanded in 1919).
- Central Military District (covering the bottom half of the North Island of New Zealand) - wore the badge of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade (the NZRB disbanded in 1919).
(noted in New Zealand Army Distinguished Patches 1911-1991 - Page 61 by M Thomas & C Lord, "It was also mentioned that due to stocks of the right-hand collar badges of the NZ Rifle Brigade being limited, when exhausted, it would be necessary for the left-hand collar badge to be worn on both sides of the collar and also the cap badge").
Fakes & Forgeries
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- Above: A reproduction Cap and/or Collar badge to the New Zealand Rifle Brigade.
Detail is blury or rounded to front, but much is also hidden by the blackened finish which has been applied.
To back the looped lugs, are ribbon like.
This is a worrying badge, as there is little differences in detail to back to that of the originals.
Detail is blury or rounded to front, but much is also hidden by the blackened finish which has been applied.
To back the looped lugs, are ribbon like.
This is a worrying badge, as there is little differences in detail to back to that of the originals.
What Happened to the Kit?
Much of the kit worn by the Kiwi was returned to stores, to be sorted and either re-issued or disposed of (burnt). Some were souvenired, and kept as momento's by the men and women who wore them. This has meant that many items were used, and therefore fell apart or were chucked in the bin when no longer wanted. A few items remain now in family and collectors hands.
- Above: An image entitled "Woodside and Excursions from Woodside 1925, 1925, by Leslie Adkin. Te Papa (A.006576)". Note the gentleman to the left with Lemon Squeezer, water bottle and binocular case (Te Papa A.006576).
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- Above: An image entitled "Official opening of Waiopehu hut - 4 March 1928, 04 March 1928, by Leslie Adkin. Gift of G. L. Adkin family estate, 1964. Te Papa (B.020784)". Note the man, third from the right, who is wearing his battered Lemon Squeezer with now a alternative puggaree (Te Papa B.020784).
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WW1 Service Chevrons.
Permission was given in September 1918 for all overseas serving troops to wear a chevron on their right arm.
A red coloured chevron for service before or on the 31st of December 1914, and a blue chevron for every 12 months of service on or after the 1st of January 1915.
The red chevron was to be worn below any blue.
Size: 1/4 inch (6.35mm) by 1 1/4 inch (31.75mm)
The chevron was to be worn on the uniform, but NOT on the greatcoat. It could also be worn by retired or ex-officers and ex-soldiers on civilian clothes.
- Opposite: A WW1 4 year service chevron in dark blue on khaki wool backing.
A red coloured chevron for service before or on the 31st of December 1914, and a blue chevron for every 12 months of service on or after the 1st of January 1915.
The red chevron was to be worn below any blue.
Size: 1/4 inch (6.35mm) by 1 1/4 inch (31.75mm)
The chevron was to be worn on the uniform, but NOT on the greatcoat. It could also be worn by retired or ex-officers and ex-soldiers on civilian clothes.
- Opposite: A WW1 4 year service chevron in dark blue on khaki wool backing.
- Above: A image of 11/675 Brigadier General William (Bill) Meldrum who served with the Wellington Mounted Rifles during WW1. He wears his service chevrons (4 years) to his right sleeve. Note the crossed Sword & Batton to shoulder boards and the curved "NZMR" title (Auckland Library collection 31-WP1134).
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- Above: A image of Mr Alp, which might be 5/217 Corporal Andrew Alp of the NZASC. Note the NZASC Cap badge to hat, and Khaki/White/Khaki pugaree. There is a curved brass NZASC shoulder title, and a 5 year set of service chevrons to right sleeve. Andrew served 4 years and 92 days, but the gentleman above does have a 1914/15 star ribbon to above his left tunic pocket, which Andrew was awarded (Auckland Library collection 31-A3988).
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Overseas Infantry Formation Patches of WW1
The following formation patches were worn on the Western Front by the New Zealand Infantry formations:
1st New Zealand Infantry Brigade - all patches were worn on the the Service Dress tunic and greatcoat, on the back, to center, just below the collar.
- Brigade Headquarters - wore a Black square worn as a diamond.
1st New Zealand Infantry Brigade - all patches were worn on the the Service Dress tunic and greatcoat, on the back, to center, just below the collar.
- Brigade Headquarters - wore a Black square worn as a diamond.
- Above: 1st Battalion Auckland Regiment - wore a Black square with a vertical Red stripe to center. Size roughly 50mm by 50mm.
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- Above: A similar 1st Battalion Auckland Regiment (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: 1st Battalion Wellington Regiment - wore a Black square with a vertical Yellow stripe to center. Note the ribbon type to the right, which appears a variation (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: 1st Battalion Otago Regiment - wore a Black square with a diamond, half Yellow and Blue (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: A mothed 1st Battalion Otago Regiment - a variation in colour. Note it has been machine sewn onto a green backing, which is impossible to unpick.
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2nd New Zealand Infantry Brigade - worn on the the Service Dress tunic and greatcoat, on the back, to center, just below the collar.
- Brigade Headquarters - Black square.
- Brigade Headquarters - Black square.
- Above: 2nd Battalion Auckland Regiment - wore a Black square with a Red diamond to center. Two slight variations in colour to center (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: 2nd Battalion Wellington Regiment - wore a Black square with a Yellow diamond to center (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: 2nd Battalion Canterbury Regiment - wore a Black square with a diamond, half Red over Blue (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: 2nd Battalion Otago Regiment - wore a Black square with a diamond, half Blue over Yellow (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: 2nd Battalion Otago Regiment - a variation in colour (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: A wonderful 1918 dated chitsmas card to the Otago Regiment of the NZEF. Note the 1st and 2nd Otago Battalion formation patches to top and also the three Infantry Regiments which supplied companies (and their badges) to the Battalions. Battle Honors for the Battalions are within the wreaths to front (image from the internet).
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- Above: A group of different Black felt patches to the 3rd NZ Infantry Brigade, the New Zealand Rifle Brigade. See below for their significance (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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3rd New Zealand Infantry Brigade (New Zealand Rifle Brigade) - Worn on both sleeves, 1 1/2 inches below the shoulder strap.
- Brigade Headquarters - Black 8 pointed star.
- 1st Battalion - NZRB - Black square worn as a diamond.
- 2nd Battalion - NZRB - Black square.
- 3rd Battalion - NZRB - Black triangle, widest part at base.
- 4th Battalion - NZRB - Black triangle, widest part at top, so upside down.
- Opposite: A group of different Black felt patches to the 3rd NZ Infantry Brigade, the New Zealand Rifle Brigade (Ian Hamilton Collection).
- Brigade Headquarters - Black 8 pointed star.
- 1st Battalion - NZRB - Black square worn as a diamond.
- 2nd Battalion - NZRB - Black square.
- 3rd Battalion - NZRB - Black triangle, widest part at base.
- 4th Battalion - NZRB - Black triangle, widest part at top, so upside down.
- Opposite: A group of different Black felt patches to the 3rd NZ Infantry Brigade, the New Zealand Rifle Brigade (Ian Hamilton Collection).
4th New Zealand Infantry Brigade - worn on the the Service Dress tunic and greatcoat, on the back, to center, just below the collar.
- Above: 3rd Battalion Auckland Regiment - wore a Red square with a vertical Black stripe to center. Above are two variations (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: 3rd Battalion Wellington Regiment - wore a Yellow square with a vertical Black stripe to center (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: 3rd Battalion Canterbury Regiment - wore a Blue square with a vertical Red stripe to center. Above are two variations (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: 3rd Battalion Otago Regiment - wore a Blue square with a vertical Yellow stripe to center (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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New Zealand Infantry Reserve
When soldiers arrived at the UK camps to finish off their training (before their move to France), they were assigned to the Reserve Battalions.
In July 1916, they were grouped as follows:
- 3rd (Reserve) Battalion - Auckland-Wellington Regiment - Wore a Blue diamond on each sleeve, below the shoulder strap.
- 3rd (Reserve) Battalion - Canterbury-Otago Regiment - Wore a Red diamond on each sleeve, below the shoulder strap.
- 5th (Reserve) Battalion - New Zealand Rifle Brigade - Wore a Black diamond on each sleeve, below the shoulder strap.
These were worn in the UK only.
When soldiers arrived at the UK camps to finish off their training (before their move to France), they were assigned to the Reserve Battalions.
In July 1916, they were grouped as follows:
- 3rd (Reserve) Battalion - Auckland-Wellington Regiment - Wore a Blue diamond on each sleeve, below the shoulder strap.
- 3rd (Reserve) Battalion - Canterbury-Otago Regiment - Wore a Red diamond on each sleeve, below the shoulder strap.
- 5th (Reserve) Battalion - New Zealand Rifle Brigade - Wore a Black diamond on each sleeve, below the shoulder strap.
These were worn in the UK only.
- Above: A group pf coloured diamond patches to the 3rd (Reserve) Battalion - Auckland-Wellington Regiment (blue) and 3rd (Reserve) Battalion - Canterbury-Otago Regiment (Red) (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: An image of 24/3 Lt Colonel Rawdon St John Beere, here wearing a 5th Reserve Battalion diamond to his upper left sleeve in Black, for the NZ Rifle Brigade. He also has a darkened set of Cap and collars to the unit and a darkened "NZRB" to his shoulder board. He served with the Samoan Advance Party, and then was CO of both the 2nd and 4th Ballations of NZ Rifle Brigade. (© IWM HU 113606)
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- Above: A unamed image of a Rifleman in the NZRB, wearing a 5th Reserve Battalion to his upper left sleeve. He wears a NZRB Collar badge, darkened curved shoulder title and black buttons to his tunic also.
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4th (Reserve) Battalion New Zealand Infantry - in March 1917, the above 3rd (Reserve) was re-titled the 4th (Reserve) Battalion and wore different patches as follows:
- Above: 4th (Reserve) Battalion Auckland Regiment - wore a Red square with a Black diamond to center (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: 4th (Reserve) Battalion Wellington Regiment - wore a Yellow square with a Black diamond to center (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: 4th (Reserve) Battalion Canterbury Regiment - wore a Red square with a vertical Blue stripe to center (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: 4th (Reserve) Battalion Otago Regiment - wore a Yellow square with a vertical Blue stripe to center (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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The New Zealand Light Trench Mortar Batteries - From April 1916, the New Zealand Light Trench Mortar Batteries were added to the Infantry Brigades. They were re-organised in September that year. On the 15th of October 1917, as per General Order 416, they were permitted to wear a formation patch. Batteries no. 1, no. 2 and no. 4 were permitted to wear it center back of tunic, just below the collar. Battery no. 3 wore it on the sleeves, 1 1/2 inches below the shoulder strap.
- Opposite: No. 1 New Zealand Light Trench Mortar Battery - Yellow circle on a Black square (Ian Hamilton Collection).
- Opposite: No. 1 New Zealand Light Trench Mortar Battery - Yellow circle on a Black square (Ian Hamilton Collection).
- Above: No. 2 New Zealand Light Trench Mortar Battery - Grey circle on a Black square (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: No. 3 New Zealand Light Trench Mortar Battery - Green circle on a Black square (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: No. 3 New Zealand Light Trench Mortar Battery - Variation in colour (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: No. 4 New Zealand Light Trench Mortar Battery - Blue circle on a Black square (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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Brass Shoulder Titles
New Zealand Forces have always worn a form of unit or national shoulder title, either in brass or cloth.
During WW1 a move was made for the 1stNZEF to wear a National title, i.e. NEW ZEALAND in curved brass, much like the Australian forces. This wasn't successful, nor widely adopted, and the NZR , NZMR and individual Corps titles carried on being worn.
During WW1 a move was made for the 1stNZEF to wear a National title, i.e. NEW ZEALAND in curved brass, much like the Australian forces. This wasn't successful, nor widely adopted, and the NZR , NZMR and individual Corps titles carried on being worn.
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- Above: A single piece, gilt brass "Battalion" shoulder title to the Wellington Battalion. NZ over WELLINGTON. Two hex type brass lugs to back on a brass shoulder plate backing (image from the internet).
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- Above: A pair of single piece, gilt brass "Battalion" shoulder title to the Auckland Battalion. NZ over AUCKLAND. Two hex type brass lugs to back on each, with no maker mark. Size 22mm by 50mm.
These Battalion strength units formed the "Main Body" of the 1st New Zealand Expeditionary Force (1stNZEF) which left in October 1914.
Titles to the NZ/Canterbury and NZ/Otago Battalions also exist but are rare and command high prices.
These Battalion strength units formed the "Main Body" of the 1st New Zealand Expeditionary Force (1stNZEF) which left in October 1914.
Titles to the NZ/Canterbury and NZ/Otago Battalions also exist but are rare and command high prices.
- Above: A pair of darkened bronze, NEW ZEALAND Officer shoulder titles. Both have two D shaped copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Size 9mm by 52mm.
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- Above Top: A gilt brass national shoulder title. Two ribbon type copper looped lugs to back, with the maker mark of "TIPTAFT B'HAM". Size 13mm by 56mm.
- Above Bottom: A gilt brass national shoulder title. Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back, with the maker mark of "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 13mm by 57mm. |
- Above: A gilt brass pair of national shoulder titles. Two ribbon type copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Likely Tiptaft. Size 13mm by 56mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass pair of national shoulder titles. Two hex type brass lugs to back, but no maker mark. Size 13mm by 56mm.
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- Opposite: New Zealand National shoulder titles in cast Brass with a blackened (paint) background. Two flat brass loops have been cast or attached to the back of each. Not much information is available on these other than inferences that these are probably private purchase items from the middle east.
Some have referred that they date from WW1, while others state WW2.
Sold by enterprising Egyptians to NZ troops stationed there or passing through?
Size 11mm by 52mm.
There are other countries titles, including "AUSTRALIA", which command huge prices.
Some have referred that they date from WW1, while others state WW2.
Sold by enterprising Egyptians to NZ troops stationed there or passing through?
Size 11mm by 52mm.
There are other countries titles, including "AUSTRALIA", which command huge prices.
- 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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The following is a selection of the curved New Zealand Rifles (N.Z.R) title. Much variation, as this title was worn prior to WW1 and well into the 1930's.
- Above Top: A brass NZR shoulder title with two copper D shaped lugs to back. No maker mark.
- Above Base: A brass NZR shoulder title with two copper D shaped lugs to back. Maker mark to "TIFTAFT". |
- Above: A matching pair of brass NZR shoulder titles. Both have two hex type brass lugs to back. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt London".
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- Above: A matching pair of brass NZR shoulder titles. Both have two hex type brass lugs to back. Not maker marked, but likely J R Gaunt of London. They sometimes didn't mark their badges.
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- Above: A locally made pair of brass NZR shoulder titles. These look hand cut, with both having two copper wire loops to back. Note there are no lines to front, to delimit the letters. No maker mark.
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- Above Top: A brass NZR shoulder title with two brass wire lugs to back. No maker mark.
- Above Base: A brass NZR shoulder title with two thin hex type lugs to back. No maker mark. |
- Above Top: A brass NZR shoulder title with two long intergrated lugs to back. No maker mark.
- Above Base: A brass NZR shoulder title with two hex type brass lugs to back. No maker mark. |
- Above: A darkened bronze NZR shoulder title with two copper D shaped lugs to back. Maker marked to "Stokes & Sons". Note the stippling to berween the letters on the frame. A feature of this maker.
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- Above: A pair of New Zealand Rifle Brigade (NZRB) shoulder titles in brass, which have been modified.
Top: Has had its :B" modified, but still keeping the looped lug to back. Base: |
- Above: A cropped or cut pair of titles made from possibly the above "NZR" titles, but have 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: A single piece, gilt brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Rifles made by Ruben Watts of Auckland. Two copper looped lugs to back, with maker mark, stamped by hand in two places to "WATTS" and "AUCK" (Corey Sawyer collection).
Shoulder Numbers
In 1911, The New Zealand Army adopted a numbered system for their 16 (soon to be 17 in 1914) Infantry and 12 Mounted Rifles Regiments.
A 15mm gilt brass number was worn on each shoulder strap on a mans tunic, positioned above the shoulder title of either N.Z.R or N.Z.M.R. - Above, a complete set of 15mm Gilt brass shoulder strap numbers. All have a single hex type brass lug to the back, except for the 8, which has had a second added at a later date. Note the "6" or "9" can be used as either. - Right Top and Bottom: These numbers were pushed through the shoulder strap material and supported under the back of the strap with a small oval backing plate, which also spaced the numbers correctly if the Regiment has a double digit number. Example here is to the 12th (Nelson) Infantry or 12th (Otago) Mounted Rifles Regiment. |
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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.
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 Left: A gilt brass, 25mm fixed shank button to the New Zealand Forces. This is maker marked to "VAN STAVEREN, WELLINGTON".
- Opposite Center:A gilt brass, 21mm fixed shank button to the New Zealand Forces. This is maker marked to "VAN STAVEREN, WELLINGTON".
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass, 17mm fixed shank button to the New Zealand Forces. This is maker marked to "VAN STAVEREN, WELLINGTON".
- Opposite Center:A gilt brass, 21mm fixed shank button to the New Zealand Forces. This is maker marked to "VAN STAVEREN, WELLINGTON".
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass, 17mm fixed shank button to the New Zealand Forces. This is maker marked to "VAN STAVEREN, WELLINGTON".
Herman van Staveren (1849-1930) was the Rabbi of Wellington from 1877 until his death. He had a family of 13 children, with three of his sons opening Van Staveren Bros. Limited in 1905. The firm finally closed in the 1980’s.
- Above Left: A gilt brass, fixed shank 25mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "STOKES & SONS, MELBOURNE".
- Above Center: A gilt brass, fixed shank 21mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "STOKES & SONS, MELB". - Above Right: A gilt brass, fixed shank 17mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "STOKES & SONS". |
- Above: A 21mm gilt brass button to the New Zealand Forces. Extra gilt applied to front.
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- Above: The back of the same 21mm gilt brass button. Screw attachment for a ladies hat pin? Maker marked to back to "STOKES & SONS, MELB".
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- Above Left: A 25mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Fixed shank and nicely marked to "JENNSEN & Co LTD, LONDON". Jennsen used this mark from 1912 to 1924, when they amalgamated with J R Gaunt.
- Above Right: A 17.5mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Fixed shank and nicely marked to "JENNSEN & Co, LONDON". |
- Above Left: A gilt brass, flexible shank, 25mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to "J W TIPTAFT & SON Ltd, BIRMINGHAM".
- Above Right: A gilt brass, fixed shank 25mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "B & P LTD BHAM"". Bent & Parker Limited (B & P) were bought out by Gaunt in 1924, like Jennsens & Co Ltd, opposite. |
- Above Left: A gilt brass, fixed shank 25.5mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "E ARNFIELD & Co Ltd, BIRMINGHAM".
- Above Right: A gilt brass, fixed shank 19mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "ARNFIELD Ltd, BIRMINGHAM". |
- Above Left: A gilt brass, flexible shank 24mm button to the New Zealand Forces. No maker mark.
- Above Right: A coppery gilt brass, flexible shank 24mm button to the New Zealand Forces. No maker mark. |
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 similar Bakelite, single piece in 17mm diameter. No maker mark. - Opposite: A pair of 13mm Bakelite side hat buttons to the New Zealand Forces. See above for a full picture of the side hat. Intergrated lug to back, with no maker mark. |
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- Opposite Left: A darkened leather, 23mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Fixed shank, made from a loop of leather and nicely marked to "LIVINGSTONE, PAT 85347".
- Opposite Right: A darkened leather, 17mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Fixed shank, made from a loop of leather, with a faint maker mark of "LIVINGSTONE, PAT 85347".
Papers Past records adverts by "Livingstone Button Co" residing at 20a Riddiford St, Newtown, Wellington, looking for staff in March 1943, in the Evening Post. This possibly dates the buttons to at least WW2. They are not common, and I have handled 4 in the last 30 years. So maybe not a design which was popular and worn widely. Bakilite might have also become a more lasting alternative to leather at the time, when Brass was in short supply.
- Opposite Right: A darkened leather, 17mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Fixed shank, made from a loop of leather, with a faint maker mark of "LIVINGSTONE, PAT 85347".
Papers Past records adverts by "Livingstone Button Co" residing at 20a Riddiford St, Newtown, Wellington, looking for staff in March 1943, in the Evening Post. This possibly dates the buttons to at least WW2. They are not common, and I have handled 4 in the last 30 years. So maybe not a design which was popular and worn widely. Bakilite might have also become a more lasting alternative to leather at the time, when Brass was in short supply.
- Above: A date New Zealand made great coat with leather buttons attached. This has still the taylors stitching to the front of the lapels, to hold the collar down while it was being made (Trev Heighway Collection).
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- Above: Attached to front are two rows of 3 large leather buttons. Two smaller buttons are on the shoulder boards (Trev Heighway Collection).
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- Opposite & Above: Maker marked in two places to the cloth and button manufacturer "A. LEVY Ltd WELLINGTON" (Trev Heighway Collection).
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J R Gaunt was by far the largest producer of New Zealand Forces buttons, producing from prior to WW1, through to the 1960's/70's.
They came in either fixed or flexible shank.
They came in either fixed or flexible shank.
- Above: The back of two Gaunt made gilt brass New Zealand Forces Buttons. The left show's what is termed as a flexible shank, which is loose to back and allows movement between the tunic layers. The right is a example of a fixed shank, with no movement.
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- Above: Gaunt experiment with the shape or form of the button as well. Type 1 (above left), is the more common type, with a rounded edge. Type 2 (above right) has a a pointed or angled edge, and is flat to back, as if to ensure that the button sits flat on the tunic fabric.
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- Above Left: A 26mm, gilt brass type 2 button to the New Zealand Forces. Fixed shank to back, with the maker mark of "J R GAUNT & SON Ltd, LONDON, ENGld".
- Above Right: A 26mm, gilt brass type 2 button to the New Zealand Forces. Fixed shank to back, with the maker mark of "J R GAUNT & SON, LONDON". |
- Above Left: A 17.5mm, gilt brass type 2 button to the New Zealand Forces. Fixed shank to back, with the maker mark of "J R GAUNT & SON Ltd, LONDON, ENG".
- Above Right: A 17mm, darkened brass type 2 button to the New Zealand Forces. Fixed shank to back, with the maker mark of "J R GAUNT & SON, LONDON". |
- Above Left: A 25mm, gilt brass type 1 button to the New Zealand Forces. Flexible shank to back, with the maker mark of "J R GAUNT & SON Ltd, LONDON".
- Above Right: A 17mm, gilt brass type 1 button to the New Zealand Forces. Flexible shank to back, with the maker mark of "J R GAUNT & SON Ltd, LONDON". |
- Above Left: A 17mm, gilt brass type 1 button to the New Zealand Forces. Flexible shank to back, with the maker mark of "J R GAUNT & SON Ltd, LONDON". Note the stars to center are smaller.
- Above Right: A 17mm, coppery brass type 1 button to the New Zealand Forces. Flexible shank to back, with the maker mark of "J R GAUNT & SON, LONDON". |
- Above Left: A 25mm, gilt brass type 1 button to the New Zealand Forces. Fixed shank to back, with the maker mark of "J R GAUNT & SON, LONDON".
- Above Right: A 24mm, gilt brass type 1 button to the New Zealand Forces. Fixed shank to back, with the maker mark of "J R GAUNT & SON, LONDON". |
- Above Left: A 17mm, gilt brass type 1 button to the New Zealand Forces. Fixed shank to back, with the maker mark of "J R GAUNT & SON Ltd, LONDON, ENGd".
- Above Right: A 17mm, darkened brass type 1 button to the New Zealand Forces. Fixed shank to back, with the maker mark of "J R GAUNT & SON Ltd, LONDON, ENGd". |
- Opposite Left: A gilt brass, fixed shank 25mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "BUTTONS LIMITED BIRMINGHAM".
- Opposite Center: A gilt brass, fixed shank 17.5mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "BUTTONS LIMITED B'HAM".
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass, flexible shank 16mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "SUPERB QUALITY".
- Opposite Center: A gilt brass, fixed shank 17.5mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "BUTTONS LIMITED B'HAM".
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass, flexible shank 16mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "SUPERB QUALITY".
- Above Left: A gilt brass, flexible shank 24mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "WOOLLEY & Co (BIRMINGHAM) LIMd".
- Above Right: A coppery brass, flexible shank 24mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "WOOLLEY & Co (BIRMINGHAM) LIMd". |
- Above Left: A gilt brass, flexible shank 17mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "WOOLLEY & Co (BIRMINGHAM) LIMd".
- Above Right: A gilt brass, flexible shank 17mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "WOOLLEY & Co BIRM LIMd". Note the difference in border compared to the left button border. |
- Above Left: A gilt brass, fixed shank 25mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "MADE IN ENGLAND".
- Above Right: A gilt brass, flexible shank 17mm button to the New Zealand Forces. Maker marked to back to "Wm DOWLER & SONS Ltd, BIRMh". Not yet seen a large 25mm version of this makers button. |
Modern New Zealand Forces buttons
- Above Left: A silver toned, anodised aluminium (with brass backing), 25.5mm New Zealand Forces button. Maker mark of "GAUNT, LONDON", in large letters to back. - Above Center: A gilt toned, anodised aluminium (with brass backing), 17mm New Zealand Forces button. Maker mark of "GAUNT, LONDON". - Above Right: A silver toned, anodised aluminium (with brass backing), 17mm New Zealand Forces button. Maker mark of "GAUNT, LONDON". |
- Above: A 24mm British Officers Colonels and Brigadiers uniform button, which was also worn by NZ Officers of the same rank. George V cypher, its brass back, with fixed shank. Maker marked "BUTTONS LIMITED BIRMINGHAM".
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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.
From the Brentt Jones collection:
- 24.8mm Livingstone Pat 85347 25.2mm Pat 85347 (Leather)
- 13mm, 17mm, 17.4mm (no maker), 17.2mm no maker but green! 24mm, 24.3mm, 24.6mm Bakelite.
- 7.8mm "JR Gaunt London", 8mm (no maker),8mm "JR Gaunt & Son Ltd",8mm "JR Gaunt & Son Ltd London",17mm "JR Gaunt & Son Ltd London Eng", 17mm "JR Gaunt & Son Ltd London", 24mm "JR Gaunt & Son London", 24.5mm "Gaunt & Son London", 24.5mm "JR Gaunt & Son London Eng" (blackened brass),24.6mm "Gaunt London", 25.4mm "JR Gaunt & Son London" (gilt), 25.2mm "JR Gaunt & Son London Eng", 25.4mm "JR Gaunt & Son Ltd London Eng" (Blackened Brass),
- 8mm "Marpelite Extra" ( Looks like wood or kind of plastic with steel shank), 16.4mm "Stokes & Sons", 17mm "Stokes & Sons", 21mm "Stokes & Sons Melb", 24.5mm "Stokes & Sons Melbourne", 24.6mm "Stokes & Sons Melbourne" (Blackened Brass), 24.8mm "Stokes & Sons Melbourne", 17mm Wm "Dowler & Sons Ltd Birm", 15.7mm "Extra Rich Quality", 17.4mm "Buttons Limited Birmingham", 19mm "Armfield Birmingham", 19mm "Established 1763", 21mm no maker Gilt, 25mm "Buttons Limited Birmingham".
Bandsman
- 17.3mm "JR Gaunt & Son Ltd London Eng" (silver plate), 25mm "JR Gaunt & Son London" (silver plate), 17mm "Stoke & Sons" (Silver plate), 24.4mm "JR Gaunt & Son Ltd London" (chrome).
- There has been talk of "A Levy, Wellington" making New Zealand Forces buttons around WW1, but I have yet to see one.
From the Brentt Jones collection:
- 24.8mm Livingstone Pat 85347 25.2mm Pat 85347 (Leather)
- 13mm, 17mm, 17.4mm (no maker), 17.2mm no maker but green! 24mm, 24.3mm, 24.6mm Bakelite.
- 7.8mm "JR Gaunt London", 8mm (no maker),8mm "JR Gaunt & Son Ltd",8mm "JR Gaunt & Son Ltd London",17mm "JR Gaunt & Son Ltd London Eng", 17mm "JR Gaunt & Son Ltd London", 24mm "JR Gaunt & Son London", 24.5mm "Gaunt & Son London", 24.5mm "JR Gaunt & Son London Eng" (blackened brass),24.6mm "Gaunt London", 25.4mm "JR Gaunt & Son London" (gilt), 25.2mm "JR Gaunt & Son London Eng", 25.4mm "JR Gaunt & Son Ltd London Eng" (Blackened Brass),
- 8mm "Marpelite Extra" ( Looks like wood or kind of plastic with steel shank), 16.4mm "Stokes & Sons", 17mm "Stokes & Sons", 21mm "Stokes & Sons Melb", 24.5mm "Stokes & Sons Melbourne", 24.6mm "Stokes & Sons Melbourne" (Blackened Brass), 24.8mm "Stokes & Sons Melbourne", 17mm Wm "Dowler & Sons Ltd Birm", 15.7mm "Extra Rich Quality", 17.4mm "Buttons Limited Birmingham", 19mm "Armfield Birmingham", 19mm "Established 1763", 21mm no maker Gilt, 25mm "Buttons Limited Birmingham".
Bandsman
- 17.3mm "JR Gaunt & Son Ltd London Eng" (silver plate), 25mm "JR Gaunt & Son London" (silver plate), 17mm "Stoke & Sons" (Silver plate), 24.4mm "JR Gaunt & Son Ltd London" (chrome).
Officers Leather Private Purchase Button
The following is a complicated button, in that it seems to be associated with private purchase garments, such as Officers Greatcoats, and not with any Country, unit or Corps. Certainly it has been noted in WW1 on British officer uniforms, and New Zealand Reinforcements for WW1 (see below), but I have also found these buttons in the effects of WW2 serving RNZA officers, and my Father, who was a British Army Officer in the 1970's, purchased and wore a 1/2 length Officers Greatcoat with a set of these buttons to front. I am told that certain WW2 era political organsations of Germany also wore these on their uniforms too.
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- Above & Opposite: A molded darkened leather button worn by Officers and men alike on private purchase items, such as Greatcoats from WW1 onwards or Reinforcement tunics. Opposite is 25mm, while above is 14mm. Both have a metal loop to back, but no maker mark.
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Other sizes encountered (none are maker marked):
27mm, 23mm, 22mm, 21mm, 16mm
27mm, 23mm, 22mm, 21mm, 16mm
During WW1 - Buttons, Buttons, Buttons!
WW1 put a great strain on New Zealand resouces, especially with the need to train and kit out Reinforcements for the NZEF.
Army stores did what they could and used a variety of buttons on tunics for Reinforcements and home service men.
Here are a few which have been identified
Army stores did what they could and used a variety of buttons on tunics for Reinforcements and home service men.
Here are a few which have been identified
- Above: An image of Sergeant Spurdle of the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment, which is dated 1916. Likely a Reinforcement, he wears a pair of gilt brass 6th Collars, and a curved brass "NZR" title to his shoulder board. Note the dark (black?) 4 hole, plain buttons to his tunic (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-S1104).
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- Above: An image of 3/2013 Sergeant James Simms of the New Zealand Medical Corps, which is dated 1916. Likely a Reinforcement, he wears a darkened NZMC Cap badge to his peaked cap, and brass shoulder titles, though they can no be seen fully. Note the pressed leather buttons to his tunic as described in the above section (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-S1043).
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- Above: An image of 20941 Sergeant Major Berners Kempthorne Totton, of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade. He is a reinforcement here (DOW France) and is wearing a set of NZRB badges and "NZRB title to his shoulder board. Note his buttons, which are a British domed Rifle Brigade type (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-T2196).
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The following has been observed on some New Zealand WW1 photos, whereby the 2nd button of the tunic was covered or wrapped in black material or crepe. It apparently signified the death of a close relative of the soldier during the war.
It was seen as an unofficial act, but may have been overlooked or a blind eye turned, but the practice was not officially sanctioned.
The British Army ordered it to be stopped in their ranks:
"Mourning wearing of, by Non-Commissioned Officers and men.
The practice by Non-Commissioned Officers and men of covering the second button of the service dress jacket with black material as a symbol of mourning is irregular and will cease forthwith. (War Office Letter No. 54/ Gen No./3025 (QMG 7) dated 19th July 1918) (Eastern Command Order 1593, 3 August 1918).
taken from "British Uniforms and Equipment of the Great War 1914 - 18 Vol. 1 Clothing and Necessaries" by John Bodsworth (MLRS; 2010).
Below are some Kiwi examples.
It was seen as an unofficial act, but may have been overlooked or a blind eye turned, but the practice was not officially sanctioned.
The British Army ordered it to be stopped in their ranks:
"Mourning wearing of, by Non-Commissioned Officers and men.
The practice by Non-Commissioned Officers and men of covering the second button of the service dress jacket with black material as a symbol of mourning is irregular and will cease forthwith. (War Office Letter No. 54/ Gen No./3025 (QMG 7) dated 19th July 1918) (Eastern Command Order 1593, 3 August 1918).
taken from "British Uniforms and Equipment of the Great War 1914 - 18 Vol. 1 Clothing and Necessaries" by John Bodsworth (MLRS; 2010).
Below are some Kiwi examples.
- Above: An image of Private Adams, dated 1920, showing him with his 2nd tunic button blackened. He is a member of the 15th (North Auckland) Infantry Regiment, wearing a set of Cap and Collars. To his right sleeve is a 3 year overseas service chevron, and on his shoulder board is a curved brass "NEW ZEALAND" title (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-A3980).
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- Above Right: An image of Corporal Walker of the New Zealand Engineers, Signal Corps, wearing a darkened 2nd button to his tunic. He is likely wearing a Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Signal Corps, though sadly the image is not clear. Dated 1917-1918 (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-W4745).
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 diameter, 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 (2nd Pattern - they wore the New Zealand Ordnance Corps patten initially).
18. Dark Blue/Yellow (thin)/Red - Worn by the New Zealand Electrical & Mechanical Engineers (3rd 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. Dark Blue/White/Dark Blue - Introduced in March 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 - yet to see evidence that this was worn, photo's so far show WW2 Y.M.C.A personnel just wearing New Zealand Infantry Pugs).
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 diameter, 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 (2nd Pattern - they wore the New Zealand Ordnance Corps patten initially).
18. Dark Blue/Yellow (thin)/Red - Worn by the New Zealand Electrical & Mechanical Engineers (3rd 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. Dark Blue/White/Dark Blue - Introduced in March 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 - yet to see evidence that this was worn, photo's so far show WW2 Y.M.C.A personnel just wearing New Zealand Infantry Pugs).
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.