New Zealand Volunteers
New Zealand has a rich Volunteer Militia history.
Since the early 1840, New Zealand Citizens assisted British Regiments in the defense and security of the Islands. In the 2nd New Zealand Wars of the 1860's, local Volunteer Militia were established, and some of these became the basis for Infantry Regiments some 50 years later.
Volunteer units ebbed and flowed with the Political events of the time. The scares of the potential Russian invasions of 1878, 1885 and 1894, French Colonial activity in the Pacific, and the patriotic fervor brought on by the 2nd Boer War (1899 to 1902), brought a swell in unit numbers and their membership.
Some units lasted for years, while others, just for a few short weeks.
They were not totally funded by the New Zealand Government, but a annual "capitation grant" was paid to each Officer and "efficient" Volunteer. Uniforms and accoutrements were often privately funded, and raised either from their own pocket or via public fund-raising events.
Some town and city units had membership of 100's, while others, especially the rural units, may have only been able to field a force of some 50 Officers and men.
In all, a force of roughly 6000 Volunteer Officers and men existed throughout New Zealand at any one time.
Officers were "elected", and the acts of 1865 and 1866 permitted the units to make their own rules and regulations (to a degree).
When attempting to collect New Zealand Volunteer Badges, any Volunteer badge is rare, but Mounted Rifle unit badges are always considerably harder to get than their Rifle Volunteer counter-parts.
Not all units had their own insignia, and there are, what are termed as "generic" Helmet Plates (HP), Glengarry Badges (the Glengarry was a form of hat popular at the time) and buttons, which were worn by a number of different units, just as a way to negate cost. Sadly this means that some units, leave little to no trace of what they wore, other than some rare Black and White photo's, or maybe just a unit button, or in the case of Mounted Rifle units, a bridal Bose and other Horse furniture.
Others adopted and wore British unit insignia of the time, as there was a huge connection to the "Mother Country", with area's, town and regions named after British places, Lords and dignitaries.
I will try and focus New Zealand Volunteer Badges, but what I have, is by no means complete. New Zealand Volunteer material is "as rare as hen's teeth" as they say.
Since the early 1840, New Zealand Citizens assisted British Regiments in the defense and security of the Islands. In the 2nd New Zealand Wars of the 1860's, local Volunteer Militia were established, and some of these became the basis for Infantry Regiments some 50 years later.
Volunteer units ebbed and flowed with the Political events of the time. The scares of the potential Russian invasions of 1878, 1885 and 1894, French Colonial activity in the Pacific, and the patriotic fervor brought on by the 2nd Boer War (1899 to 1902), brought a swell in unit numbers and their membership.
Some units lasted for years, while others, just for a few short weeks.
They were not totally funded by the New Zealand Government, but a annual "capitation grant" was paid to each Officer and "efficient" Volunteer. Uniforms and accoutrements were often privately funded, and raised either from their own pocket or via public fund-raising events.
Some town and city units had membership of 100's, while others, especially the rural units, may have only been able to field a force of some 50 Officers and men.
In all, a force of roughly 6000 Volunteer Officers and men existed throughout New Zealand at any one time.
Officers were "elected", and the acts of 1865 and 1866 permitted the units to make their own rules and regulations (to a degree).
When attempting to collect New Zealand Volunteer Badges, any Volunteer badge is rare, but Mounted Rifle unit badges are always considerably harder to get than their Rifle Volunteer counter-parts.
Not all units had their own insignia, and there are, what are termed as "generic" Helmet Plates (HP), Glengarry Badges (the Glengarry was a form of hat popular at the time) and buttons, which were worn by a number of different units, just as a way to negate cost. Sadly this means that some units, leave little to no trace of what they wore, other than some rare Black and White photo's, or maybe just a unit button, or in the case of Mounted Rifle units, a bridal Bose and other Horse furniture.
Others adopted and wore British unit insignia of the time, as there was a huge connection to the "Mother Country", with area's, town and regions named after British places, Lords and dignitaries.
I will try and focus New Zealand Volunteer Badges, but what I have, is by no means complete. New Zealand Volunteer material is "as rare as hen's teeth" as they say.
Early Units in New Zealand
From 1840 to 1870, Britain maintained a presents in New Zealand, which fluctuated depending on the conflicts and tensions at the time. They were primarily brought in to protect the security of the Settlers and the early New Zealand Dominion.
In Howard Ripley's book "Buttons of the British Army 1855-1970 - An Illustrated Reference Guide for Collectors", he talks about the evolution of the button, which is important as it goes some way in explaining what buttons are found today in New Zealand, often as ground dug finds, in and around old settlements and battle sites:
"Officers' gilt or silver faced buttons began to be replaced by, flat, single-piece metal ones. These flat buttons were superseded by convex, open-backed buttons, which in turn gave way to convex, closed-backed buttons about 1820-1830. Other ranks retained their pewter buttons until the introduction of brass buttons for all regular troops about 1855.
The year 1855 is significant and was chosen as the starting point for this work (his book) because it was at the time that the tunic was adopted by the army. With the tunic came new buttons for both officers and men; new size buttons larger than the old coatee buttons were introduced and, while gilt was still used for officers' buttons, brass buttons replaced the men's old pewter ones. (Buttons of the British Army 1855-1970 - An Illustrated Reference Guide for Collectors - Howard Ripley - page 7)."
British units which were stationed in New Zealand through this period were as follows:
- 12th (The East Suffolk) Regiment of Foot.
While based in Australia, some elements of the 1st Battalion also served in New Zealand when needed between 1860 and 1867.
- 14th (Buckinghamshire or The Prince of Wales's Own) Regiment of Foot
The 2nd Battalion, arrive in New Zealand in 1858.
- 18th (The Royal Irish) Regiment of Foot
The 2nd Battalion, began to arrive in New Zealand from 4 July 1863 and served in the Waikato and Taranaki campaigns. They returned home in Feb 1870.
In Howard Ripley's book "Buttons of the British Army 1855-1970 - An Illustrated Reference Guide for Collectors", he talks about the evolution of the button, which is important as it goes some way in explaining what buttons are found today in New Zealand, often as ground dug finds, in and around old settlements and battle sites:
"Officers' gilt or silver faced buttons began to be replaced by, flat, single-piece metal ones. These flat buttons were superseded by convex, open-backed buttons, which in turn gave way to convex, closed-backed buttons about 1820-1830. Other ranks retained their pewter buttons until the introduction of brass buttons for all regular troops about 1855.
The year 1855 is significant and was chosen as the starting point for this work (his book) because it was at the time that the tunic was adopted by the army. With the tunic came new buttons for both officers and men; new size buttons larger than the old coatee buttons were introduced and, while gilt was still used for officers' buttons, brass buttons replaced the men's old pewter ones. (Buttons of the British Army 1855-1970 - An Illustrated Reference Guide for Collectors - Howard Ripley - page 7)."
British units which were stationed in New Zealand through this period were as follows:
- 12th (The East Suffolk) Regiment of Foot.
While based in Australia, some elements of the 1st Battalion also served in New Zealand when needed between 1860 and 1867.
- 14th (Buckinghamshire or The Prince of Wales's Own) Regiment of Foot
The 2nd Battalion, arrive in New Zealand in 1858.
- 18th (The Royal Irish) Regiment of Foot
The 2nd Battalion, began to arrive in New Zealand from 4 July 1863 and served in the Waikato and Taranaki campaigns. They returned home in Feb 1870.
- Above: A 25mm, gilt brass button to the 12th (East Suffolk) Regiment of Foot. Fixed shank to back, with maker mark of "JENNENS & Co LONDON" (image from internet).
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- Above: A 25mm, gilt brass button to the 14th (Buckinghamshire or The Prince of Wales's Own) Regiment of Foot. Battle honours "INDIA" to top and "WATERLOO" to base. Fixed shank to back, with maker mark of "P. TAIT & Co, LIMERICK"
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Other button sizes and makers in same type above (B Jones Collection):
12th Foot:
- 19.5mm "C Pitt & Co 50 St Martins Lane"
- 24.6mm "P Tait & Co Limerick"
- 25mm "Firmins & Sons London"
14th Foot:
- 24.6mm (no back)
- 25.2mm "Firmin & Sons London"
14th Foot (Also found with a "QV crown" above the lion and "14" in roman numerals to base):
- 23.6mm "Jennens & Co London"
18th Foot:
- 25mm Gilt "Jennens & Co London" (B Jones collection).
- 40th (2nd Somersetshire) Regiment of Foot
Based in Victoria, Australia, the regiment also took part in the Taranaki and the Waikato campaigns in the early 1860s. It arrived back in the UK in August 1866.
- 43rd (Monmouthshire Light Infantry) Regiment of Foot
In September 1863, the 43rd left India to serve in New Zealand. They led the storming column at Gate Pa in April 1864, and took part in the assault on the fort at Te Ranga in June 1864. The regiment returned to England in February 1866.
- 50th (The Queen's Own) Regiment of Foot
The Regiment landed at Auckland in November 1863. It joined a field force which marched into the interior of the country as part of Lieutenant General Duncan Cameron's West Coast campaign. In January 1865 during the Second Taranaki War, it came under sustained attack and lost a number of men. The regiment moved to Sydney in June 1867 and then left for England in March 1869.
- 57th (West Middlesex) Regiment of Foot
It sailed for Auckland, New Zealand in November 1860 for service in the New Zealand Wars. and saw notable action in October 1863 during the Second Taranaki War. The regiment returned to the UK in 1867.
12th Foot:
- 19.5mm "C Pitt & Co 50 St Martins Lane"
- 24.6mm "P Tait & Co Limerick"
- 25mm "Firmins & Sons London"
14th Foot:
- 24.6mm (no back)
- 25.2mm "Firmin & Sons London"
14th Foot (Also found with a "QV crown" above the lion and "14" in roman numerals to base):
- 23.6mm "Jennens & Co London"
18th Foot:
- 25mm Gilt "Jennens & Co London" (B Jones collection).
- 40th (2nd Somersetshire) Regiment of Foot
Based in Victoria, Australia, the regiment also took part in the Taranaki and the Waikato campaigns in the early 1860s. It arrived back in the UK in August 1866.
- 43rd (Monmouthshire Light Infantry) Regiment of Foot
In September 1863, the 43rd left India to serve in New Zealand. They led the storming column at Gate Pa in April 1864, and took part in the assault on the fort at Te Ranga in June 1864. The regiment returned to England in February 1866.
- 50th (The Queen's Own) Regiment of Foot
The Regiment landed at Auckland in November 1863. It joined a field force which marched into the interior of the country as part of Lieutenant General Duncan Cameron's West Coast campaign. In January 1865 during the Second Taranaki War, it came under sustained attack and lost a number of men. The regiment moved to Sydney in June 1867 and then left for England in March 1869.
- 57th (West Middlesex) Regiment of Foot
It sailed for Auckland, New Zealand in November 1860 for service in the New Zealand Wars. and saw notable action in October 1863 during the Second Taranaki War. The regiment returned to the UK in 1867.
- Above: A gilt brass, 25mm, 40th (2nd Somersetshire) Regiment of Foot button. Maker marked to "JENNENS & Co LONDON" (image from internet).
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- Above: A gilt brass, 25mm, 43rd (Monmouthshire Light Infantry) Regiment of Foot button. Maker marked to "HAWKES & Co. PICCADILLY, LONDON" (image from internet).
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- Above: A ground-dug, gilt brass, 24mm, 50th (The Queen's Own) Regiment of Foot button. Fixed shank to back with the marker mark of "SMITH, KEMP & WRIGHT, BIRMINGHAM" (Nigel Robson collection).
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- Above: A 57th (West Middlesex) Regt of Foot 24.3mm ground-dug button by "SMITH, KEMP & WRIGHT, BIRMINGHAM".
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Smith, Kemp & Wright:
The firm originally started out as "Smith and Kemp", in the 1840s.
But one source states that John Skirrow Wright started at the firm in 1838.
By 1850, he had become a partner, with John Kemp leaving the firm on the 25th of Feb, 1861.
This accounts for the change in name on the backplate of their buttons, with only Smith & Wright being used after 1861.
In the 20th century, the firm was absorbed into Firmin & Sons.
Other button sizes and makers in same type above (B Jones Collection):
40th Foot:
- 19mm gilt "Firmins IP London"
- 24.4mm "P Tait & Co Limerick"
43rd Foot (Laural Wreath):
- 19.6mm "Jennens & Co London"
- 24.6mm "Rogers & Co King St Covent Gardens London"
43rd Foot (Crown & Horn):
- 15.6mm "ORR MADRAS"
- 19.6mm copper "Jennens & Co London"
- 25.4mm gilt "J W Reynolds & Co London 50 Martins St"
50th Foot:
- 19mm gilt "Jennens & Co London"
- 24.5mm (unreadable),
- 25.4mm "Smith, Kemp & Wright Mincham Birmingham".
57th Foot:
- 19mm No Maker
- 19.1mm "C Pitt London"
- 24.5mm & 25mm "Rogers &Co King St Covent Garden London"
- 28.7mm "Firmin & Sons Ld Strand London" (mess jacket).
- 58th (Rutlandshire) Regiment of Foot
Deployed to New Zealand in March 1845 and took part in the Whanganui Campaign of 1846. The Regiment eventually returned to the UK in 1859.
- 65th (2nd Yorkshire, North Riding) Regiment of Foot
Saw action in the First Taranaki War of 1860 to 1861 and in the Waikato campaign of 1863 to 1864. The regiment returned home in October 1865.
- 68th (Durham - Light Infantry) Regiment of Foot
Arrived January 1864 as a Regiment at Auckland. It took part in the Tauranga campaign - April 1864, which included the Battle of Gate Pa and action around Te Papa. They remained in the field until Feb 1865, when they returned to Auckland and then depart in March that year, returning to the UK.
The firm originally started out as "Smith and Kemp", in the 1840s.
But one source states that John Skirrow Wright started at the firm in 1838.
By 1850, he had become a partner, with John Kemp leaving the firm on the 25th of Feb, 1861.
This accounts for the change in name on the backplate of their buttons, with only Smith & Wright being used after 1861.
In the 20th century, the firm was absorbed into Firmin & Sons.
Other button sizes and makers in same type above (B Jones Collection):
40th Foot:
- 19mm gilt "Firmins IP London"
- 24.4mm "P Tait & Co Limerick"
43rd Foot (Laural Wreath):
- 19.6mm "Jennens & Co London"
- 24.6mm "Rogers & Co King St Covent Gardens London"
43rd Foot (Crown & Horn):
- 15.6mm "ORR MADRAS"
- 19.6mm copper "Jennens & Co London"
- 25.4mm gilt "J W Reynolds & Co London 50 Martins St"
50th Foot:
- 19mm gilt "Jennens & Co London"
- 24.5mm (unreadable),
- 25.4mm "Smith, Kemp & Wright Mincham Birmingham".
57th Foot:
- 19mm No Maker
- 19.1mm "C Pitt London"
- 24.5mm & 25mm "Rogers &Co King St Covent Garden London"
- 28.7mm "Firmin & Sons Ld Strand London" (mess jacket).
- 58th (Rutlandshire) Regiment of Foot
Deployed to New Zealand in March 1845 and took part in the Whanganui Campaign of 1846. The Regiment eventually returned to the UK in 1859.
- 65th (2nd Yorkshire, North Riding) Regiment of Foot
Saw action in the First Taranaki War of 1860 to 1861 and in the Waikato campaign of 1863 to 1864. The regiment returned home in October 1865.
- 68th (Durham - Light Infantry) Regiment of Foot
Arrived January 1864 as a Regiment at Auckland. It took part in the Tauranga campaign - April 1864, which included the Battle of Gate Pa and action around Te Papa. They remained in the field until Feb 1865, when they returned to Auckland and then depart in March that year, returning to the UK.
- Above: A 58th (Rutlandshire) Regiment of Foot, 25mm, gilt brass, fixed shank button by "JENNENS & Co, LONDON" (image from internet).
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- Above: Another pattern of 58th (Rutlandshire) Regt of Foot, 20mm, by "S Isaacs Cambell & Co St James St" (B Jones collection).
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Other button sizes and makers in same type above (B Jones Collection):
58th Foot:
- 18.6mm "Jennens & Co London"
- 22.5mm "Jennens &Co London"
- 24.3mm "Smith Kemp & Wright Birmingham"
65th Foot (no lion or crown):
- 19mm, gilt brass, fixed shank button by "JENNENS & Co, LONDON"
58th Foot:
- 18.6mm "Jennens & Co London"
- 22.5mm "Jennens &Co London"
- 24.3mm "Smith Kemp & Wright Birmingham"
65th Foot (no lion or crown):
- 19mm, gilt brass, fixed shank button by "JENNENS & Co, LONDON"
- Above: A 65th (2nd Yorkshire, North Riding) Regt of Foot, 10.5mm by "JENNENS & C0 LONDON" (B Jones collection).
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- Above: A 65th (2nd Yorkshire, North Riding) Regt of Foot, 22mm metal detector find in New Zealand (B Jones collection).
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- Above: A 65th (2nd Yorkshire, North Riding) Regt of Foot, Crown over "65", 19.7mm size, with unreadable maker mark to back (B Jones collection).
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- Above: A 68th (Durham - Light Infantry) Regiment of Foot, 25mm, gilt brass, fixed shank button by "JENNENS & Co, LONDON" (image from internet).
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Other button sizes and makers in same type above (B Jones Collection):
65th Foot:
- 25mm "SMITH & WRIGHT, E & W1, PATENT, BIRMINGHAM" (also G Elliott Collection)
- 19mm gilt no maker (series if dots around the back)
68th Foot:
- 19.7mm hollow back "Firmins 153 Strand"
- 24.5mm "Smith Kemp & Wright Birmingham"
- 70th (Surrey) Regiment of Foot
Arrived in New Zealand as a Regiment in 1861, and took part in a skirmish at Rangiaohia in February 1864 during the invasion of the Waikato. Departed for England in 1866.
- 80th (Staffordshire Volunteers) Regiment of Foot
In 1840, during the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, a detachment from the 80th (Staffordshire Volunteers) Regiment of Foot was also present (sent from Sydney, Australia).
- 96th (Queens Own Germans) Regiment of Foot
Battle of Kororareka in the Bay of Islands - March 1845
- 99th (Lanarkshire) Regiment of Foot
Hutt Valley Campaign - 1846, Battle of Battle Hill - 1846, then returned to Australia where it would regularly send reinforcements to New Zealand when needed until 1856, when it returned to the UK.
65th Foot:
- 25mm "SMITH & WRIGHT, E & W1, PATENT, BIRMINGHAM" (also G Elliott Collection)
- 19mm gilt no maker (series if dots around the back)
68th Foot:
- 19.7mm hollow back "Firmins 153 Strand"
- 24.5mm "Smith Kemp & Wright Birmingham"
- 70th (Surrey) Regiment of Foot
Arrived in New Zealand as a Regiment in 1861, and took part in a skirmish at Rangiaohia in February 1864 during the invasion of the Waikato. Departed for England in 1866.
- 80th (Staffordshire Volunteers) Regiment of Foot
In 1840, during the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, a detachment from the 80th (Staffordshire Volunteers) Regiment of Foot was also present (sent from Sydney, Australia).
- 96th (Queens Own Germans) Regiment of Foot
Battle of Kororareka in the Bay of Islands - March 1845
- 99th (Lanarkshire) Regiment of Foot
Hutt Valley Campaign - 1846, Battle of Battle Hill - 1846, then returned to Australia where it would regularly send reinforcements to New Zealand when needed until 1856, when it returned to the UK.
- Above: A ground-dug, gilt brass, 24mm, 70th (Surrey) Regiment of Foot button. Fixed shank to back with the marker mark of "SMITH, KEMP & WRIGHT, BIRMINGHAM" (Nigel Robson collection).
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Other button sizes and makers in same type above (B Jones Collection):
70th Foot:
- 19.6mm (unreadable),
- 25mm "Smith,Kemp & Wright Birmingham"
- 25.2mm gilt "Firmin & Sons London"
80th Foot:
- 19mm pewter "Firmins St Martins"
- 19.5mm (unable to read) pewter
96th Foot (garter with crown):
- 21mm "Charles Jennens London" - looks chrome in finish
- 24.5mm "Smith & Wright Birmingham"
70th Foot:
- 19.6mm (unreadable),
- 25mm "Smith,Kemp & Wright Birmingham"
- 25.2mm gilt "Firmin & Sons London"
80th Foot:
- 19mm pewter "Firmins St Martins"
- 19.5mm (unable to read) pewter
96th Foot (garter with crown):
- 21mm "Charles Jennens London" - looks chrome in finish
- 24.5mm "Smith & Wright Birmingham"
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- Above: A pre 1855, ground-dug, pewter 19.5mm 99th (Lanarkshire) Regiment of Foot. Found on Norfolk Island Kingston settlement (B Jones collection).
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- Above: A 1855 to 1871 other ranks 99th (Lanarkshire) Regiment of Foot, 25mm, gilt brass, fixed shank button by "JENNENS & Co, LONDON" (image from internet).
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- Above: A gilt brass Officers 1874 to 1881, 19mm button to the 99th (Lanarkshire) Regiment of Foot. Maker marked to "###### MADDOX ST LONDON" (B Jones collection).
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- Above: A ground dug Helmet Plate to the 99th (Lanarkshire) Regiment of Foot, which was found on Norfolk Island. It used to be a convict settlement, which coinciding with the New Zealand Maori Wars. Missing its crown to top (which can be a sign that the Soldier left the Kings service, but was allowed to keep his badge), it has no lugs to back or maker mark (B Jones collection).
Other button sizes and makers (B Jones Collection):
99th Foot:
- 24.6mm "KEMP & WRIGHT BIRMINGHAM"
Other button sizes and makers (B Jones Collection):
99th Foot:
- 24.6mm "KEMP & WRIGHT BIRMINGHAM"
- Above: A 22mm, gilt brass button to the Royal Marines Light Infantry. Maker mark to back to "Smith & Wright Birmingham" (B Jones collection)
Also found with 22mm "Player Brothers Birmingham" (B Jones Collection). |
- Above: A 22mm, gilt brass button to the Royal Marine Artillery. Note the flaming grenades to front. Maker marked to "Smith & Wright Ltd Birmingham" (B Jones collection).
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- Opposite: The Royal Corps of Sappers and Miners were in New Zealand from 1840 to 1857. A 16mm with the maker mark of "FIRMIN LONDON" (B Jones collection).
Other sizes (B Jones collection): 20mm "Firmin & Sons 153 Strand" , 21mm "Dolan London" fixed shank - hollow back, 21mm "Firmin & Sons 153 Strand St Lond". |
- Above: A QVC crowned Royal Engineers Button. See below for the following sizes with makers to back (B Jones collection)
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Other button sizes and makers (B Jones Collection):
Royal Engineers:
- 16.6mm "Smith Kemp & Wright Birmingham"
- 17mm "Jennens & Co London"
- 22mm "Smith & Wright Birmingham"
- 22mm "W Twigg & Co Birmingham"
- 22.8mm "C & J.W ELDON London"
- 24.6mm "Firmin & Sons London Patent 23"
Millitary Train:
- 17mm "Firmins London"
Commissariat Staff:
- 9.8mm "G&W.BO.. & Co London (possibly George & William Boggett)
- 17.8mm "Smith & Wright E & Ws Patent Birmm"
- 21.6mm "P & S Firmins 153 Strand London"
- 23mm "Jennens & Co London"
Commissariat & Transport Staff
- 19mm "Jennens & Co London"
Royal Engineers:
- 16.6mm "Smith Kemp & Wright Birmingham"
- 17mm "Jennens & Co London"
- 22mm "Smith & Wright Birmingham"
- 22mm "W Twigg & Co Birmingham"
- 22.8mm "C & J.W ELDON London"
- 24.6mm "Firmin & Sons London Patent 23"
Millitary Train:
- 17mm "Firmins London"
Commissariat Staff:
- 9.8mm "G&W.BO.. & Co London (possibly George & William Boggett)
- 17.8mm "Smith & Wright E & Ws Patent Birmm"
- 21.6mm "P & S Firmins 153 Strand London"
- 23mm "Jennens & Co London"
Commissariat & Transport Staff
- 19mm "Jennens & Co London"
- Opposite: A British Medical Staff gilt brass button (image from the internet)
Other button sizes and makers (B Jones Collection):
Medical staff:
- 16mm silver "Firmins & Sons Ld London"
- 24.7mm silver "Firmin & Sons Ld London Patent 2346"
- 22.5mm gilt "Doughty & Co 103 Martins Lane"
- 23mm "Jennens & Co London"
Other button sizes and makers (B Jones Collection):
Medical staff:
- 16mm silver "Firmins & Sons Ld London"
- 24.7mm silver "Firmin & Sons Ld London Patent 2346"
- 22.5mm gilt "Doughty & Co 103 Martins Lane"
- 23mm "Jennens & Co London"
The last to leave New Zealand, was the 18th (The Royal Irish) Regiment of Foot in February, 1870.
- Above: A circa 1849 to 1855 Royal Artillery Other Ranks' shako plate. Purportedly found on Howick Beach, near Auckland, New Zealand. It has no lugs to back, and looks to have been "repaired" messily to back. No maker mark. Size roughly (as rays are bent/missing) 100mm by 95mm.
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- Above: A ground dug 65th Regiment of Foot (2nd Yorkshire North Riding)), 1855 pattern Other Ranks' shako plate, found in the Otahuhu area of New Zealand. All lugs have gone from back, and the crown has broken off in the past, and repaired with solder to back. Size roughly (as rays are bent/missing) 100mm by 90mm.
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- Above: A multi-piece Officers, silver or silver plate (not marked) Royal Artillery Busby Badge, with the three Cannon to center. To back is a thread and nut to top, and a single tang at base. Size 85mm by 46mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass, other ranks Royal Artillery Busby badge, circa 1859 to 1878. This badge has been lacquered in the past, which has turned brown, and in some places black. Long brass slider to back, with a plume holder behind the flame of the Grenade. No maker mark. Size roughly (as badge is dented to edge) 85mm by 45mm.
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- Above: A silver (not marked), 1855 to 1873 pattern, 3 Cannon Royal Artillery and NZ Artillery Volunteer, 23mm button. Fixed shank, with brass backing, and marker marked to "CHARLES BELL, LIVERPOOL".
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- Above: A silver (not marked), 3 Cannon Royal Artillery and NZ Artillery Volunteer, 22mm button. Fixed shank, with brass backing, and marker marked to "W DOWLER, BIRMINGHAM".
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- Above: A pewter, 21.6mm, 3 Cannon Royal Artillery and NZ Artillery Volunteer button. Maker marked to "SMITH & WRIGHT" (B Jones Collection).
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- Above: A white metal, 21.6mm, 3 Cannon Royal Artillery and NZ Artillery Volunteer button. Maker marked to "WALLIS & HOWES WOOLWICH" (B Jones Collection).
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- Above: A white metal, 15mm, 3 Cannon Royal Artillery and NZ Artillery Volunteer button. Fixed shank, with brass backing, and maker marked to "KENNING LONDON" (G Elliott Collection).
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- Above: A white metal, 15.5mm, 3 Cannon Royal Artillery and NZ Artillery Volunteer button. Fixed shank, with brass backing, no maker mark.
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The Royal Artillery left NZ in 1866, with the New Zealand Armed Constabulary taking over their permanent role (opposed to the Volunteers which existed along side them), included in their Armory were rifled 6 Pounder Armstrong cannons that were brought to NZ with the Royal Artillery in 1861, under command of Captain Mercer. These cannons were breach loaders, and some of the very first, which were then thought of as a experimental weapon. Small in size to the much larger muzzle loaders, they proved to be ideal for dismantling and taking them through the dense New Zealand bush (G Elliott).
In 1848, A New Zealand Fencible Force was formed from overseas volunteers, to help with the security of the settlers and defense of the nation. They were mainly ex British solders (who needed to be under the age of 48 (and later 41), who were paid by the British Govnt, passage, with their families to New Zealand. They had a obligation to service, and in return were given land to farm, which they would own after 10 years of service.
They were stationed throughout the conflict, with their first battle of 1851 at Mechanics Bay, in Auckland.
The Force disbanded in 1859.
In 1848, A New Zealand Fencible Force was formed from overseas volunteers, to help with the security of the settlers and defense of the nation. They were mainly ex British solders (who needed to be under the age of 48 (and later 41), who were paid by the British Govnt, passage, with their families to New Zealand. They had a obligation to service, and in return were given land to farm, which they would own after 10 years of service.
They were stationed throughout the conflict, with their first battle of 1851 at Mechanics Bay, in Auckland.
The Force disbanded in 1859.
- Above: A white metal, single piece, QVC badge to the New Zealand Fencibles with "LOCAL COMPANIES" to front wreath. Two looped lugs in a East/West configuration, with no maker mark.
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- Above: A similar, but brass, single piece, QVC badge to the New Zealand Fencibles with "LOCAL COMPANIES" to front wreath. Two looped lugs in a East/West configuration, with no maker mark.
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- Above: A variation in brass, QVC badge to the New Zealand Fencibles with "LOCAL COMPANIES" to front wreath. Note the difference in crown and rays to Star. Two looped lugs in a East/West configuration, with no maker mark.
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- Above: A 25.5mm Light Infantry button. This is silver plated copper, with a border. Fixed shank, with a brass backing and maker marked to "OAKSHETTE & Co, 15 MILLS St, CONDUIT St, LONDON".
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Other sizes and makers of the above Light Infantry button (Brentt Jones collection).
- 16mm no maker, series of dots. brass, 16.5mm "Samuel Brother Ltd London" (Brass), 21.9mm "Pitt & Co 50 St Martins Lane London" (looks Blackened Copper), 23mm "Extra Rich Treble Strand" (Blackened Brass), 22.8mm no maker (Brass), 23.2mm "Hobson & Son 37 & 38 Windmill St Haymarket London" (Brass), 22.5 "Hobson & Son 37 & 38 Windmill St Haymarket London" (White Metal), 22.5mm "E Stillwell & Son London" (White Metal), 22.4mm "Firmin & Sons London" (White Metal), 23mm "Hobson & Sons Lexington St London" (White Metal), 22mm "Hobson & Son 94 St Martins Lane London W C" (White Metal), 25.4mm "Oakshette & Co 15 Mill St Conduit St London"(White Metal & Copper)
Kings Crown (like the above right).
- 12.2mm no maker black, 16.6mm "Quality Buttons" black, 17mm "Superb Quality" black, 17mm "Superb Quality" brass, 19mm "Extra Superb" black (pictured above right), 16.6mm "Stokes & Sons" copper, 20.4mm "Stokes & Sons Melb" blackened brass, 20.5mm "Stokes & Sons Melb" brass, 24mm "Special Quality" black (pictured, above left), 11.3mm no maker blackened brass, 19.3mm "Extra Superb" (BB), 23mm "Superb Quality" (BB), 24.5mm "Superb Quality" (BB), 25mm "Stokes & Sons Melbourne" (BB), 17mm no maker (horn), 23mm "Halesowen" (horn), 23mm no maker (horn), 16mm "Stokes & Sons" (brass), 20.2mm "Stokes & Sons Melb" (Brass).
- 16mm no maker, series of dots. brass, 16.5mm "Samuel Brother Ltd London" (Brass), 21.9mm "Pitt & Co 50 St Martins Lane London" (looks Blackened Copper), 23mm "Extra Rich Treble Strand" (Blackened Brass), 22.8mm no maker (Brass), 23.2mm "Hobson & Son 37 & 38 Windmill St Haymarket London" (Brass), 22.5 "Hobson & Son 37 & 38 Windmill St Haymarket London" (White Metal), 22.5mm "E Stillwell & Son London" (White Metal), 22.4mm "Firmin & Sons London" (White Metal), 23mm "Hobson & Sons Lexington St London" (White Metal), 22mm "Hobson & Son 94 St Martins Lane London W C" (White Metal), 25.4mm "Oakshette & Co 15 Mill St Conduit St London"(White Metal & Copper)
Kings Crown (like the above right).
- 12.2mm no maker black, 16.6mm "Quality Buttons" black, 17mm "Superb Quality" black, 17mm "Superb Quality" brass, 19mm "Extra Superb" black (pictured above right), 16.6mm "Stokes & Sons" copper, 20.4mm "Stokes & Sons Melb" blackened brass, 20.5mm "Stokes & Sons Melb" brass, 24mm "Special Quality" black (pictured, above left), 11.3mm no maker blackened brass, 19.3mm "Extra Superb" (BB), 23mm "Superb Quality" (BB), 24.5mm "Superb Quality" (BB), 25mm "Stokes & Sons Melbourne" (BB), 17mm no maker (horn), 23mm "Halesowen" (horn), 23mm no maker (horn), 16mm "Stokes & Sons" (brass), 20.2mm "Stokes & Sons Melb" (Brass).
The New Zealand Militia
The New Zealand Militia were formed in 1858, with the passing of the Militia Act of that year (though a number of units formed just prior to its passing (New Plymouth Militia Battalion & Auckland Rifle Volunteers to name a few)) by the NZ Government.
It established the rules and organisational structure of New Zealand's first Citizen Soldiers, who as a Militia existed up to 1872.
It established the rules and organisational structure of New Zealand's first Citizen Soldiers, who as a Militia existed up to 1872.
- Above & Opposite: A cross strap and pouch to the Taranaki Militia, with the Taranaki Rifle Volunteers being established on the 11th of Sept 1858. This would be a generic cross strap and pouch, worn by Militia units within the Taranaki District (Andrew Edgcombe collection).
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- Above: A glimpse of the inside of the pouch. Note the embossing to the inside surface. The leather tab, which holds the pouch closed has broken off (Andrew Edgcombe collection).
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- Above: A picture showing the side mounts of the pouch in white metal (Andrew Edgcombe collection).
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- Above: A close up of the cross strap badge (Andrew Edgcombe collection).
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- Above & Opposite: A white metal, two piece Belt Buckle to the Taranaki Militia. Solid to back, with no maker marks except for a "9" stamped to the inside of both parts of the buckle, where they join (and are not seen when worn to front - Andrew Edgcombe collection).
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- Above: A silver plated, 22mm, fixed shank button to the Taranaki Militia. QVC crown over a "TM". It has a brass backing plate, with brass shank. Maker marked to "E. W. JACKSON & Co, 58 GRACECHURCH STREET, LONDON" (Andrew Edgcombe collection).
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- Above: A single piece, engraved Silver Cap badge to the Forest Rangers (F.R.). Solid to back, with four wire tangs to back, in corners, which have all snapped off. No maker mark.
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- Above: A single piece, brass belt buckle to the New Zealand Militia. It has "N.Z.M." to lower banner, with Royal coat of Arms above. Separate loop and belt clip brazed to back. No maker mark.
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New Zealand Armed Constabulary
The New Zealand Armed Constabulary were formed in 1846 with the passing of the Armed Constabulary Ordinance. The Constabulary's role was both regular law enforcement and during the New Zealand Wars, Militia support.
From 1867 to 1886 the Armed Constabulary were the only permanent armed force in New Zealand.
In 1886 their role was transferred to the New Zealand Permanent Militia and to the New Zealand Police, under the Police Force Act of 1886.
From 1867 to 1886 the Armed Constabulary were the only permanent armed force in New Zealand.
In 1886 their role was transferred to the New Zealand Permanent Militia and to the New Zealand Police, under the Police Force Act of 1886.
- Above: A Cap badge to the New Zealand Armed Constabulary. This is die-stamped, white metal, with two copper looped lugs to back in a East/West configuration. No maker mark.
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- Above: A cloth and bullion thread Cap badge to the Otago branch of the New Zealand Armed Constabulary. They differed from other regions of the force by having "OTAGO" added to their Cap and Belt buckle badges. Plain paper backing with no maker mark (image from the internet).
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Above: A two piece, white metal belt buckle to the Otago Armed Constabulary Force. QVC to center, it has no maker mark to the back.
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- Above: A 25mm, white metal button to the New Zealand Armed Constabulary. Marker marked to "EXTRA RICH QUALITY" (Image from the internet).
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- Above: A 19mm white metal, with brass backing button to the New Zealand Armed Constabulary. Fixed shank to back, and maker marked to "SMITH & WRIGHT, BIRMINGHAM".
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- Above: A darkened brass, Glengarry badge to the New Zealand Armed Constabulary. It apparently came in two sizes and has two copper looped lugs to back in a North/South configuration. It has been mentioned that this form of hat (the Glengarry - opposed to the Shako) and this badge, were adopted by the Military arm of the Armed Constabulary to distinguish itself from the day to day Police Force. There was public outcry, that too much time was spent on military matters and not on public policing, so a separate force within the Armed Constabulary was formed. Date wise it's circa 1876.
Other button maker marks noted:
- size 26mm - SMITH & WRIGHT, BIRMINGHAM
- size 26mm - SMITH & WRIGHT, BIRMINGHAM
Generic New Zealand Rifle Volunteer Badges
This section covers what are termed the "generic badges" worn by the units of Rifle Volunteers which didn't have their own named or distinguishing insignia.
- Above: A silver or silver frosted cross-belt badge to a Officer in the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. Two piece, with separate center held on by 2 wires folded to back. Four screw posts to back. No maker mark (image from the internet).
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- Above: A image of a likely Auckland Rifle Volunteer Sergeant. Unit is NOT recorded, and sadly his shoulder boards are not clear. Note he wears the below helmet plate to his spiked Home Service helmet (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 5-2738-02)
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- Above: A superb image of Bugler Tremain, likely a Auckland Volunteer. Sadly his unit isn't recorded. Note his helmet plate, which is the one opposite. He has a double buglers badge to sleeve and wears the Musicians shoulder titles. Also note the early "Kings" Tudor crown to his collar (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 5-2738-31)
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- Above: A 2 piece, white metal, generic helmet plate to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. This plate also come with the center voided, around the "NZ". Three copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark. Size 88mm by 64mm (plate is curved).
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- Above: Another pattern of generic Helmet plate to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers, in silver plate. Three copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Size 68mm by 42.5mm.
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- Above: Same again, of the generic Helmet plate to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers, this time in white metal, which is a little grubby with age. Three copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Size 68mm by 42.5mm.
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- Above: A bi-metal shako badge to the New Zealand Volunteers. White metal frame, with a brass center, mounted on a mesh backing. The center is secured by wires bent through the mesh. Two looped lugs to back in a East/West configuration. No maker mark.
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- Above: A variation of all white metal shako badge to the New Zealand Volunteers. Note the center is attached, by wires to the outer frame. Two looped lugs to back, in a East/West configuration. No maker mark, and note a piece unidentified unit ribbon attached to back (image from the internet).
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- Opposite Top: A single piece, generic white metal pouch badge with QVC crown, worn by New Zealand Volunteers. Two copper looped lugs to back in a East/West configuration. No maker mark and size 42.5mm by 45mm.
- Opposite Base: A single piece, white metal pouch badge without crown, worn by New Zealand Volunteers. Two bolt threads to back in a East/West configuration. No maker mark and size 34mm by 45mm. - Above: An example of the pouch badge being used on a black leather pouch to a New Zealand Rifle Volunteer unit. Discovered in a shed in Invercargill, South Island, New Zealand. It looks to have a cypher in white metal which says "IRV". Could possible be the Irish Rifle Volunteers which were formed in the Invercargill District in 1885. |
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- Opposite: A white metal pouch badge to a Victoria period Volunteer unit. Crown, over "VR". Three short screw posts to back (one behind crown, two East/West to lower part of badge). No maker mark. Size 52mm by 40mm.
- Above: A unknown 3 piece badge. It was found in New Zealand, and consists of two white metal crowns attached to a "VR" cypher. Two copper looped lugs are to back, with one each on each Crown. Size is 28mm by 81mm. No maker mark. |
- Above: A white metal 1882 patt generic Helmet plate worn by members of the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers (NZRV). Not in the books, but one presumes that it was worn prior to the adoption of all gilt brass insignia post 1895. Two copper looped lugs in a East/West configuration to back. Size 131mm by 106mm (approx, the lower ray is bent). Note, worn by other countries, such as Canada.
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- Above:The same Helmet plate, but in gilt brass of the 1882 patt generic Helmet plate worn by members of the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers (NZRV), worn post 1895. Two copper looped lugs to back in a East/West configuration. Size 133mm by 106mm (HP has been flattened).
Motto: Honi Soit Qui Mal Y Pense (Shame on him who thinks evil of it). |
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- Above: A gilt brass 1895 patt New Zealand Volunteers Helmet Plate with QVC crown. Three copper looped lugs to back and size 110mm by 86mm (HP is curved).
- Opposite: A tantalising image of a J McGregor, a Volunteer, who is clearly wearing the above Helmet plate, with "N#", something on his shoulder boards. His HP and buttons would be in gilt brass (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 5-2738-25A). |
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- Opposite: A gilt brass 1902 patt New Zealand Volunteers Helmet Plate with Kings crown. Gilt finish has dulled with age and wear. Three copper looped lugs to back, with size 108mm by 91mm (HP is curved).
- Above: On the left is a top of a Volunteers Artillery Helmet with "Ball" fitting, while on the right is a Infantry "Spike" fitting. |
New Zealand followed Britain in terms of military fashion, and of course adopted what the British wore, and this included the various styles of Home Service Helmets, which the above helmet plates would have worn on, to front. Here are some fittings. Sadly I don't have a helmet, and as usual, with time and wear, the delicate fabric, cork and leather has perished, leaving just the gilt brass fittings to remain.
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- Above and Opposite: Two tops or spikes to the Volunteer Home Service Helmet. The ball fitting, worn by Volunteer Artillery units, the spike, by Infantry and Rifle Volunteers. The above picture shows the vent-hole nut which fits inside and through the helmet top. The crucifix base also has 4 lugs, under each end, which fit through the helmet material. Note the back hook, for attaching one end of the chinstrap when not in use
- Opposite: This shows also the rosettes in gilt brass, which fit either side to the helmet. Three are for permanently attaching the chinstrap to one side, while the 2nd from the left is used when chinstrap is in used. No maker marks. All have a screw thread and nut.
The Snider Rifle
The 1853 patterned Enfield Musket was adopted by the British Army, and saw extensive service in the later stages of the Crimea War.
It took a .577 caliber bullet.
During the 1860's, technology developed to allow this bullet to be contained within a cartridge, which allowed easier loading and a more rapid rates of fire.
The British Army looked to take advantage of these changes, but instead of a whole new rifle, sort to "convert" existing rifle stocks from muzzle loading to breach loading. Designs were invited and eventually the Snider breach loading patent was adopted.
By 1868, some of the British regiments stationed in New Zealand had been issued with these converted Snider Enfield Rifles.
Over the next 30 years, New Zealand would use a mixture of this rifle within its Volunteer Force, including the Long, Medium and Short versions of the Snider as well as the Snider Artillery Carbine.
It took a .577 caliber bullet.
During the 1860's, technology developed to allow this bullet to be contained within a cartridge, which allowed easier loading and a more rapid rates of fire.
The British Army looked to take advantage of these changes, but instead of a whole new rifle, sort to "convert" existing rifle stocks from muzzle loading to breach loading. Designs were invited and eventually the Snider breach loading patent was adopted.
By 1868, some of the British regiments stationed in New Zealand had been issued with these converted Snider Enfield Rifles.
Over the next 30 years, New Zealand would use a mixture of this rifle within its Volunteer Force, including the Long, Medium and Short versions of the Snider as well as the Snider Artillery Carbine.
- Above: A well worn and battered Snider Enfield Mark II** Short (sword) rifle with 30.5 inch barrel. "NZ" marked, it has the base of the stock replaced.
- Above: The reverse of the same Snider Enfield Mark II** Short (sword) rifle.
- Above: An image of the lock plate, with QV Crown on the left, above a "VR". To center is the date "1861". Right is then a Crown over broadarrow.
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- Above: An image of above the breech, with "N", broadarrow, "Z" overstamped on the "II", a "88" for 1888, two "**" and "651".
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- Above: An image of the top of the stock of the rifle, with "N", broadarrow, "Z", a "88" for 1888 and possibly "651".
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- Opposite: Faint markings on the stock, which have been lacquered over.
- Above: How the 1858 Patterned Sword Bayonet attaches to the end of the Short |
(continued) Snider rifle. Note on the left is a top view, showing the Bayonet to the right side.
- Above: A side view, showing the reason for such a mounting, to stay clear of the cleaning rod, fitted below. This was resolved in 1898, when the need for a fixed cleaning rod was abolished on British Army rifles. |
Volunteer Buttons
The following are a representation of buttons worn by the New Zealand Volunteers. Some are British pattern, which were worn at the time in the UK, and of course available to New Zealand units to purchase. Others were specifically made for the New Zealand Volunteers.
- Above: A 1870's British General Service button in White Metal. QVC with brass backing and fixed shank. Maker marked "SAMUEL BROTHERS, LONDON".
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- Above Left: A 24mm, gilt brass, British General Service button. QVC with brass backing and flexible shank. Maker marked "PLAYER BROs, BIRMINGHAM".
- Above Right: A 24.5mm, gilt brass, British General Service button in. QVC with brass backing and flexible shank. Maker marked "HARRISON & SMITH, BIRMINGHAM". |
- Above Left: A 25mm, gilt brass, British General Service button. QVC with brass backing and flexible shank. Maker marked "SMITH & WRIGHT LIMITED, BIRMINGHAM".
- Above Right: A 17mm, gilt brass, British General Service button in. QVC with brass backing and flexible shank. Maker marked "H & S, BHAM". |
While writing the above, I note that both the above type of buttons are now reproduced, so care need to be taken when purchasing.
- Other makers and sizes in 1870's Pat QVC White Metal General Service Button (Brentt Jones collection):
- 17mm "C & J. Webb & Co London", 24mm "Hammond & Co Newcastle.Staff", 24mm "Firmin & Sons Ld London", 24mm "Samuel Brothers London", 25mm "Samuel Brothers London", 24mm "Hobson & Sons Lexington St London", 24.6mm "Hobson & Son Haymarket London 37 & 38 Little Windmills", 24mm "J & B Pearse & Co London".
- Other makers and sizes in 1870's Pat QVC Brass General Service Button (Brentt Jones collection):
- 7mm no maker, 16mm No Maker, 18mm No Maker, 16mm "B Player Bros", 16.3mm "B Player Bros", 24mm "Player Bros Birmingham", 16.2mm "Sword Trademark Made in England",16.6mm "Smith & Wright Ltd Birmingham",16.8mm "Smith & Wright Ltd Birmingham",17mm "Smith & Wright Ltd Birmingham", 24mm "Smith & Wright Limited Birmingham", 24mm "Smith & Wright Limited Birmingham" ( gilt), 24mm "Harrison & Smith Birmingham", 16.5mm "Wm Twigg & Co Birmingham", 17mm "W Twigg & Co Birmingham", 17.1mm "W Twigg & Co Ltd Birmingham", 17.3mm "W Twigg & Co Birmingham", 24.2mm "Wm Twigg & Co Birmingham", 24mm "Firmin & Sons Ld London", 24.2mm "Firmin & Sons Ltd London" (gilt), 24mm "Jennens & Co London" (gilt), 24.6mm "Herbert & Co London".
- Other makers and sizes in 1870's Pat QVC White Metal General Service Button (Brentt Jones collection):
- 17mm "C & J. Webb & Co London", 24mm "Hammond & Co Newcastle.Staff", 24mm "Firmin & Sons Ld London", 24mm "Samuel Brothers London", 25mm "Samuel Brothers London", 24mm "Hobson & Sons Lexington St London", 24.6mm "Hobson & Son Haymarket London 37 & 38 Little Windmills", 24mm "J & B Pearse & Co London".
- Other makers and sizes in 1870's Pat QVC Brass General Service Button (Brentt Jones collection):
- 7mm no maker, 16mm No Maker, 18mm No Maker, 16mm "B Player Bros", 16.3mm "B Player Bros", 24mm "Player Bros Birmingham", 16.2mm "Sword Trademark Made in England",16.6mm "Smith & Wright Ltd Birmingham",16.8mm "Smith & Wright Ltd Birmingham",17mm "Smith & Wright Ltd Birmingham", 24mm "Smith & Wright Limited Birmingham", 24mm "Smith & Wright Limited Birmingham" ( gilt), 24mm "Harrison & Smith Birmingham", 16.5mm "Wm Twigg & Co Birmingham", 17mm "W Twigg & Co Birmingham", 17.1mm "W Twigg & Co Ltd Birmingham", 17.3mm "W Twigg & Co Birmingham", 24.2mm "Wm Twigg & Co Birmingham", 24mm "Firmin & Sons Ld London", 24.2mm "Firmin & Sons Ltd London" (gilt), 24mm "Jennens & Co London" (gilt), 24.6mm "Herbert & Co London".
The following pattern of button is complicated, as it was not just worn by New Zealand Forces, but other Commonwealth countries also adopted it at the time. It was generally worn by some New Zealand Volunteer units from 1866 to 1909.
- Above Left: A worn, 2 piece 19mm Silver plated copper front (with brass backing) Officers Volunteer button. Fixed shank with the maker mark of "Smith & Wright, Birmh".
- Above Right: A worn 2 piece 16mm Silver plated copper front (with brass backing) Officers Volunteer button. Fixed shank but with a maker mark I can't read. |
- Above Left: A 23mm, white metal front, with plated brass back Other Ranks Volunteer button. Fixed shank to back (though badly bent) it has the details of "Lincoln Stuart Pty Ltd, E, #######". The last word could be England.
- Above Middle: A 21mm, white metal front, with brass back Other Ranks Volunteer button. Fixed shank and maker marked to "C R Martin, Melbourne". - Above Right: A 23mm, silver plated copper front with sliver plated brass backed Other Ranks Volunteer button. Fixed shank to back. Maker marked or motto'ed with "Pereva et Prevale", with a picture of a Swan over water. |
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- Above Left: A 15mm, white metal front, with brass back Other Ranks Volunteer button. Fixed shank but no maker mark.
- Above center and also Right: A 17mm, white metal front, with brass back Other Ranks Volunteer button. Flexible shank and no maker mark, this button still has a small part of thread and Red uniform attached to the shank.
- Above Right: A variation of 16mm, white metal front, with brass back Other Ranks Volunteer button. Note the ridge to edge. Fixed shank and maker marked to "Extra Rich Quality".
Other makers & sizes - Brentt Jones collection:
25mm "Webb & Co" (Brass VR - QVC above and surrounded laurel leaves (circlet), 22.7mm "Fast Shank" (looks chrome),
Two piece silver wash - 14.6mm "Hammond Turner & Sons", 15mm "Fine Treble Gilt", 15.3mm "Smith & Wright",15.2mm "Extra Treble Standard", 17.4mm "Extra Treble Standard", 19mm "Smith & Wright Birmm".
Two Piece Brass - 15mm "Rich Standard", 15mm "Smith & Wright Birmm", 17.6mm "Extra Treble Standard", 23mm "Jennens & Co London",
Pressed circlet - (rim) Silver wash - 15.3mm "Stokes & Martin", 17mm "Extra Rich Quality", 22.6mm "Stokes & Martin Makers Melbourne", 23.5mm "Samuel Brothers London", 24.5mm No Maker.
VR Pressed silver wash - 14.7mm "E Stillwell & son London", 15mm no maker, 16.5mm no maker, 17mm no maker, 16.3mm "Weldon London", 17.4mm "Lincoln Stuart & Co Pty Ltd", 21mm "Kenning Little Britain London", 22mm "CR Martin Melbourne", 23mm "E Stilwell & Son London", 23mm no maker, 23mm "Special Quality", 23.4mm "The New Zealand Clothing Factory" .
- Above center and also Right: A 17mm, white metal front, with brass back Other Ranks Volunteer button. Flexible shank and no maker mark, this button still has a small part of thread and Red uniform attached to the shank.
- Above Right: A variation of 16mm, white metal front, with brass back Other Ranks Volunteer button. Note the ridge to edge. Fixed shank and maker marked to "Extra Rich Quality".
Other makers & sizes - Brentt Jones collection:
25mm "Webb & Co" (Brass VR - QVC above and surrounded laurel leaves (circlet), 22.7mm "Fast Shank" (looks chrome),
Two piece silver wash - 14.6mm "Hammond Turner & Sons", 15mm "Fine Treble Gilt", 15.3mm "Smith & Wright",15.2mm "Extra Treble Standard", 17.4mm "Extra Treble Standard", 19mm "Smith & Wright Birmm".
Two Piece Brass - 15mm "Rich Standard", 15mm "Smith & Wright Birmm", 17.6mm "Extra Treble Standard", 23mm "Jennens & Co London",
Pressed circlet - (rim) Silver wash - 15.3mm "Stokes & Martin", 17mm "Extra Rich Quality", 22.6mm "Stokes & Martin Makers Melbourne", 23.5mm "Samuel Brothers London", 24.5mm No Maker.
VR Pressed silver wash - 14.7mm "E Stillwell & son London", 15mm no maker, 16.5mm no maker, 17mm no maker, 16.3mm "Weldon London", 17.4mm "Lincoln Stuart & Co Pty Ltd", 21mm "Kenning Little Britain London", 22mm "CR Martin Melbourne", 23mm "E Stilwell & Son London", 23mm no maker, 23mm "Special Quality", 23.4mm "The New Zealand Clothing Factory" .
- Above: A 1870 patt New Zealand Rifle Volunteer button, in white metal and 23mm diameter. Maker marked to "Ross & Glendining, Dunedin, N.Z."
The company started in 1862 and was eventually was bought out in 1966. The two men, John Ross and Robert Glendining, extended the business to include sheep farming, milling and manufacturing in New Zealand. They eventually had factories in Dunedin, Invercargill, Christchurch, Te Awamutu, Auckland and Whangarei. |
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Other makers & size - Brentt Jones Collection:
VR No Crown Pressed- Silver Wash - 15.6mm "Standard Treble Rich"
VR pressed silver - 20.5mm "E Stillwell & son London Barbican", 23mm "Hallenstein Bros & Co Army contractors", 22.7mm "Persta Et Pravale", 23mm "Extra Rich Quality", 23mm "E Stillwell & Son London 925 Barbican Little Britain", 22.8mm "E Stillwell & Son London", 23mm "The New Zealand Clothing Factory"
VR Pressed Brass - 14.4mm No Maker, 16.5mm No Maker,16.5mm "The New Zealand Clothing Factory", 22.8mm "The New Zealand Clothing Factory", 17mm "Ross & Glendining Dunedin NZ", 17mm "Rich Extra Quality", 22mm "Simpson & Rook London",22.2mm "Superior Quality", 22.2mm "Persta Et Pravale", 23mm "E Stillwell & Son London".
VR Pressed Gilt - 21.7mm "Extra Superior Quality", 22mm "Ross & Glendining Dunedin NZ", 22.4mm "Smith & Wright Birmingham", 22.3mm "E Milnes & Co London", 23mm "E Milnes & Co London", 22.8mm "H.G & Co London".
VR Silver Plate TUDOR CROWN - 22.6mm "Stokes & Sons Melbourne"
VR No Crown Pressed- Silver Wash - 15.6mm "Standard Treble Rich"
VR pressed silver - 20.5mm "E Stillwell & son London Barbican", 23mm "Hallenstein Bros & Co Army contractors", 22.7mm "Persta Et Pravale", 23mm "Extra Rich Quality", 23mm "E Stillwell & Son London 925 Barbican Little Britain", 22.8mm "E Stillwell & Son London", 23mm "The New Zealand Clothing Factory"
VR Pressed Brass - 14.4mm No Maker, 16.5mm No Maker,16.5mm "The New Zealand Clothing Factory", 22.8mm "The New Zealand Clothing Factory", 17mm "Ross & Glendining Dunedin NZ", 17mm "Rich Extra Quality", 22mm "Simpson & Rook London",22.2mm "Superior Quality", 22.2mm "Persta Et Pravale", 23mm "E Stillwell & Son London".
VR Pressed Gilt - 21.7mm "Extra Superior Quality", 22mm "Ross & Glendining Dunedin NZ", 22.4mm "Smith & Wright Birmingham", 22.3mm "E Milnes & Co London", 23mm "E Milnes & Co London", 22.8mm "H.G & Co London".
VR Silver Plate TUDOR CROWN - 22.6mm "Stokes & Sons Melbourne"
- Above: A darkened, white metal, 21mm, fixed shank 1882 patt New Zealand Rifle Volunteers button. Brass backed, with brass shank, it is made by "HOBSON & SONS".
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- Above: A white metal, 21mm fixed shank 1882 patt New Zealand Rifle Volunteers button. Brass backed, with brass shank, it is made by "HOBSONS & SONS". It has been lacquered in the past.
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- Above: A gilt brass, 21mm fixed shank 1882 patt New Zealand Rifle Volunteers button. This would have been worn post 1895. Brass backed, with brass shank, it is made by "THE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY".
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Other White Metal "NZV" 1882 patt button sizes and makers (B Jones collection):
15.8mm "Hobson & sons", 20.6mm "Hobson & sons", 21mm "The New Zealand Clothing Factory", 21mm "Hobson & Sons", 21mm (No Maker).
15.8mm "Hobson & sons", 20.6mm "Hobson & sons", 21mm "The New Zealand Clothing Factory", 21mm "Hobson & Sons", 21mm (No Maker).
- Opposite: A gilt brass pair of 15mm 1882 pattern side hat button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers.
From 1895, all Volunteer units were instructed to wear gilt brass insignia and buttons to their uniform.
Both buttons are brass backed, with brass shank and maker mark to "HOBSON & SONS".
Other Brass "NZV" 1882 Patt button sizes and makers (B Jones collection):
15.8mm "Hobson & Sons".
From 1895, all Volunteer units were instructed to wear gilt brass insignia and buttons to their uniform.
Both buttons are brass backed, with brass shank and maker mark to "HOBSON & SONS".
Other Brass "NZV" 1882 Patt button sizes and makers (B Jones collection):
15.8mm "Hobson & Sons".
- Above Left: A white metal, 24mm fixed shank 1885 patt New Zealand Rifle Volunteers button. Brass backed, with brass shank, it is made by "Hobson & Sons, Lexington St, London, W1".
- Above Right: A white metal, 24mm fixed shank 1885 Patt New Zealand Rifle Volunteers button. Brass backed, with brass shank, it is made by "Hobson & Son, Haymarket London". With "37 & 38 Little Windmill St" to center, around the shank. |
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Other 1885 Pattern Variations
(In B Jones Collection)
In White Metal
15.6mm "Samuel Bros London", 16mm (no maker), 16.5mm "extra rich quality", 16.7mm "extra rich quality", 17mm "Smith & Wright Birmingham", 17.2mm (no maker), 22.4mm "Samuel Brothers London", 22.7mm Riveted & Soldered (coat of arms), 23mm "Samuel Brothers London", 23.5mm "Smith & Wright Birmingham", 24mm "Extra Rich Quality", 24mm (no maker (chrome)), 24mm "Smith & Wright Birm'h", 24mm "Smith & Wright Birmingham", 24mm "Hobson & Sons Lexington St London W".
In Brass
24mm "Hobson & Sons Lexington St London W" (Brass), 24mm "The New Zealand Clothing Factory" (Brass), 24mm (no maker Brass), 24mm "Hallenstein & Bro's & Co Army Contractors" (Brass), 24mm "E Stillwell & Son London" (Brass), 24mm "Smith & Wright Birm"m" (Brass),
In White Metal
15.6mm "Samuel Bros London", 16mm (no maker), 16.5mm "extra rich quality", 16.7mm "extra rich quality", 17mm "Smith & Wright Birmingham", 17.2mm (no maker), 22.4mm "Samuel Brothers London", 22.7mm Riveted & Soldered (coat of arms), 23mm "Samuel Brothers London", 23.5mm "Smith & Wright Birmingham", 24mm "Extra Rich Quality", 24mm (no maker (chrome)), 24mm "Smith & Wright Birm'h", 24mm "Smith & Wright Birmingham", 24mm "Hobson & Sons Lexington St London W".
In Brass
24mm "Hobson & Sons Lexington St London W" (Brass), 24mm "The New Zealand Clothing Factory" (Brass), 24mm (no maker Brass), 24mm "Hallenstein & Bro's & Co Army Contractors" (Brass), 24mm "E Stillwell & Son London" (Brass), 24mm "Smith & Wright Birm"m" (Brass),
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- Above: A 1885 pattern, 23mm white metal button worn by New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. Maker Marked to "C.K.MOORE SYDNEY" (B Jones Collection).
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- Opposite Left: A gilt brass 24mm, fixed shank, 1895 Patt button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. NZ maker mark to back to "Hallenstein Brothers Ltd".
- Opposite Middle: A gilt brass 23mm, fixed shank, 1895 Patt button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. NZ maker mark to back to "Hallenstein Brothers".
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass 16mm, fixed shank, 1895 Patt button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. NZ maker mark to back to "Hallenstein Brothers".
- Opposite Middle: A gilt brass 23mm, fixed shank, 1895 Patt button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. NZ maker mark to back to "Hallenstein Brothers".
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass 16mm, fixed shank, 1895 Patt button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. NZ maker mark to back to "Hallenstein Brothers".
- Above Left: A darkened brass 24mm, fixed shank 1895 Patt button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. NZ maker mark to back to "Superior Quality".
- Above Right: A gilt brass 25mm, fixed shank 1895 Patt button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. Maker mark to back with a QVC crown and Laurel wreath. |
- Above Left: A gilt brass 12mm, fixed shank 1895 Patt hat button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. No maker mark to back.
- Above Middle: A gilt brass 12mm, fixed shank 1895 Patt hat button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. No maker mark to back. Note the larger stars and words. - Above Right: A gilt brass 10mm, fixed shank 1895 Patt hat button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. No maker mark to back. Other sizes (B Jones collection): 9.4mm, 11.3mm, 11,5mm, 11.8mm (all with no maker mark). |
- Opposite Left: A gilt brass 24mm, fixed shank 1895 Patt button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. Maker mark to back to "Firmin & Sons Ld, London".
- Opposite Middle: A gilt brass 18mm, fixed shank 1895 Patt button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. Maker mark to back to "Firmin S Ld, London". It has a white metal backing with gilt brass front and shank.
- Opposite Right: A darkened brass 25mm, fixed shank 1895 Patt button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. NZ maker mark to back to "Woolen Co, Wellington".
- Opposite Middle: A gilt brass 18mm, fixed shank 1895 Patt button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. Maker mark to back to "Firmin S Ld, London". It has a white metal backing with gilt brass front and shank.
- Opposite Right: A darkened brass 25mm, fixed shank 1895 Patt button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. NZ maker mark to back to "Woolen Co, Wellington".
- Opposite Left: A gilt brass 24mm, fixed shank 1895 Patt button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. Maker mark to back to "Sword Maker (crossed swords), Made in England".
- Opposite Middle: A gilt brass 18mm, fixed shank 1895 Patt button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. Maker mark to back to "Sword Maker (crossed swords), Made in England".
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass 16mm, fixed shank 1895 Patt button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. Maker mark to back to "Sword Maker (crossed swords), Made in England".
- Opposite Middle: A gilt brass 18mm, fixed shank 1895 Patt button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. Maker mark to back to "Sword Maker (crossed swords), Made in England".
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass 16mm, fixed shank 1895 Patt button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. Maker mark to back to "Sword Maker (crossed swords), Made in England".
- Opposite Left: A gilt brass 25mm, fixed shank 1895 Patt button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. Maker mark to back to "Hobson & Son's, Lexington St, London".
- Opposite Middle: A 24mm, fixed shank 1895 Patt button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. Maker mark to back to "Hobson & Sons, 1, 3 & 5 Lexington St, London".
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass 25mm, fixed shank 1895 Patt button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. Maker mark to back to "Hobson & Son's, Lexington St, London". Note the stars are smaller to front center.
- Opposite Middle: A 24mm, fixed shank 1895 Patt button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. Maker mark to back to "Hobson & Sons, 1, 3 & 5 Lexington St, London".
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass 25mm, fixed shank 1895 Patt button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. Maker mark to back to "Hobson & Son's, Lexington St, London". Note the stars are smaller to front center.
- Above Left: A darkened bronze (?) 24mm, fixed shank 1895 Patt Officers button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. Maker mark to back to "HOBSON & SONS, London" It has two vent holes drilled into the back.
- Above Right: A gilt brass 16mm, fixed shank 1895 Patt button to the New Zealand Rifle Volunteers. Maker mark to back to "HOBSON &SONS, LONDON". Other Makers noted (B Jones Collection): 25.6mm "Herbert & Co London" |
- Above: A two piece, 24mm British Officers Colonels and Brigadiers uniform button, which was also worn by NZ Officers of the same rank. Edward VII cypher, its brass back, with fixed shank. Maker marked "HOBSONS & SONS LEXINGTON ST, LONDON".
Other Makers noted (B Jones Collection): 19mm "GAUNT LONDON" |
- Above: A gilt brass 24mm, Royal Household or Diplomats button. Maker marked "JENNENS & CO LONDON". QVC to top.
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- Above: A 25mm, gilt brass, British General Service button. Kings Crown with brass backing and flexible shank. Maker marked "NEWEY BROS LIMITED, BIRMINGHAM".
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- Above Left: A 25mm, gilt brass, British General Service button. Kings Crown with brass backing and flexible shank. Maker marked "SMITH & WRIGHT LIMITED, BIRMINGHAM".
- Above Right: A 17mm, gilt brass, British General Service button. Kings Crown with brass backing and flexible shank. Maker marked "SMITH & WRIGHT Ltd, B"HAM". |
- Above: A 25mm, gilt brass, British General Service button. Kings Crown with brass backing and flexible shank. Maker marked "REGAL BUTTON WORKS Ltd, BIRMINGHAM".
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- Other makers and sizes - Kings crown, brass
- 17mm "J R Gaunt & Son Ltd, London Eng", 17mm J R Gaunt & Son Ltd, London", 17mm "Buttons Limited, Birmingham", 17mm "Harcourts Ltd, Birmingham, 17mm no maker mark, 17.5mm "A.A. & Sons, Aligath, 17.5mm "Smith & Wright Ltd, B'ham", 17.5mm "Hallday, Birmingham", 24.5mm "Morton & Growder Ltd, Birmingham", 24mm "Harcourts Ltd, Birmingham", 23mm "W.L.M. Ltd, B'HAM", 23mm "Cheney, B'ham", 24.5mm "E. Armfield & Co Ltd, Birmingham", 25mm "J R Gaunt & Son, London", 25mm "J & B Pearse & Co, London", 24mm Plastic, no maker,
Brentt Jones Collection:
- 17mm "E P Gill Birmingham", 17mm "Buttons Limited Birmingham", 17.3mm "Newey Bros Ltd Birmingham", 24mm No Maker, 23.5mm "Stratton B.H.A.M", 24mm "Sydney Griffith Birmingham", 23.6mm "Gaunt London".
- Other makers and sizes - Kings crown, White Metal/Silver
Brentt Jones Collection:
- 16.6mm "Samuel Brothers Ld London", 23.8mm "Firmin & Sons Ltd London", 24.6mm "Hobson & Sons Lexington St London", 25mm "Sword Make crossed swords Mark Made in England".
- 17mm "J R Gaunt & Son Ltd, London Eng", 17mm J R Gaunt & Son Ltd, London", 17mm "Buttons Limited, Birmingham", 17mm "Harcourts Ltd, Birmingham, 17mm no maker mark, 17.5mm "A.A. & Sons, Aligath, 17.5mm "Smith & Wright Ltd, B'ham", 17.5mm "Hallday, Birmingham", 24.5mm "Morton & Growder Ltd, Birmingham", 24mm "Harcourts Ltd, Birmingham", 23mm "W.L.M. Ltd, B'HAM", 23mm "Cheney, B'ham", 24.5mm "E. Armfield & Co Ltd, Birmingham", 25mm "J R Gaunt & Son, London", 25mm "J & B Pearse & Co, London", 24mm Plastic, no maker,
Brentt Jones Collection:
- 17mm "E P Gill Birmingham", 17mm "Buttons Limited Birmingham", 17.3mm "Newey Bros Ltd Birmingham", 24mm No Maker, 23.5mm "Stratton B.H.A.M", 24mm "Sydney Griffith Birmingham", 23.6mm "Gaunt London".
- Other makers and sizes - Kings crown, White Metal/Silver
Brentt Jones Collection:
- 16.6mm "Samuel Brothers Ld London", 23.8mm "Firmin & Sons Ltd London", 24.6mm "Hobson & Sons Lexington St London", 25mm "Sword Make crossed swords Mark Made in England".
- Above: A gilt brass, 21.5mm, Edward VII button to either a Aide-de-Camp or Viceregal. Fixed shank, brass back, with maker mark of "SWORD MAKE" (crossed swords) "TRADE MARK" and "MADE IN ENGLAND".
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- Above: A gilt brass, 21.5mm, Edward VII button to either a Aide-de-Camp or Viceregal. Fixed shank, brass back, with maker mark of "A LEVY, WELLINGTON".
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- Above: A gilt brass, 16mm, Edward VII button to either a Aide-de-Camp or Viceregal. Fixed shank, brass back, with maker mark of "A LEVY, WELLINGTON".
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- Above: A gilt brass, 17mm, "ER" button with Kings crown. At this stage a unknown. Fixed shank, brass back, with maker mark of "SWORD MAKE" (crossed swords) "TRADE MARK" and "MADE IN ENGLAND".
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- Opposite & Above: Two hand cut New Zealand shoulder titles. Both have copper looped lugs to back, but are different from the standard NZ found around WW1. No maker mark to either.
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- Above: A generic Volunteer Glengarry badge, worn by a large number of New Zealand Rifle and Mounted Rifle Volunteer units. Gilt brass, with three copper looped lugs to back (one at top and two at base), with no maker mark.
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- Above: A similar Volunteer Glengarry badge, but this time with backing ribbon of Purple and Yellow, at an angle, sloping from Right to Left. It has its three copper looped lugs to back, but also other items attached to the split pins to back. A letter "Z" (to be worn along with a "N" on either side of the Bugle badge for "N" "Z", and two small gilt brass "New Zealand Volunteer" post 1895 patt buttons. Sadly the unit meaning of the ribbon has been lost with time (image from the internet).
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- Above: A single piece, gilt brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Volunteers (NZV). Two copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark (Ian Hamilton collection).
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- Above: A pair of Volunteer Fern Leaf Collars circa 1895. Two different finishes, with the left having a darkened/black coating, while the right is gilt brass. Both have two copper looped lugs to back. Note the vain or stem to middle of the badge is center. No maker mark and size 25mm by 45mm.
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- Above: A pair of Volunteer Fern Leaf Collars circa 1895. Both are gilt brass, but one is more toned than the other. Both have two copper looped lugs to back. Note the vain or stem is to one side of the badge center, so could be two of the same badge or side. No maker mark and size 28mm by 43mm.
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- Above: A pair of NZ Volunteer Cap badges, circa 1900. This badge had a long life, and was worn from the New Zealand Contingents serving in the 2nd Anglo-Boer War (1899- 1902) till and during WW1. The hooks are to hold back one side of a slouch hat. One is in gilt brass finish, while the other has been darkened. Both have two copper wire looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Size 29mm (including hook) by 49mm.
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- Above Top: A darkened bronze, convex NZ Volunteer Fern Cap or Collar badge. This has two tangs or blades to back, but sadly no maker mark. Size 25.5mm by 48mm.
- Above: A similar darkened bronze, convex NZ Volunteer Fern Collar badge. Two copper looped lugs to back, but again no maker mark. Size 25.5mm by 48mm. |
- Above: A matching, opposing pair of darkened brass NZ Volunteer Fern Leaf Collar badges. Both have thin copper wire looped lugs to back, with no maker mark. Size 25mm by 49mm.
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- Above:A matching, opposing pair of gilt brass NZ Volunteer Fern Leaf Collar badges. Both have copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark. Note they are narrower overall and have a pronounced tip. Size 24mm by 50mm.
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- Above: A matching, opposing pair of gilt brass NZ Volunteer Fern Leaf Collar badges. Both have copper D shaped lugs to back, with no maker mark. Note they have better detail overall, and are wider in shape. Size 27mm by 51mm.
- Above Top: A darkened brass NZ Volunteer Fern Leaf Collar badge. It has copper wire loops to back, with no maker mark. Size 25mm by 49mm.
- Above: A gilt brass NZ Volunteer Fern Leaf Collar badge. It has copper D shaped loops to back, with no maker mark. Note the pattern in the fronds. Size 25mm by 52.5mm. |
- Above Top: A darkened copper NZ Volunteer Fern Leaf Collar badge. It has copper wire loops to back, with no maker mark. Size 25mm by 50mm.
- Above: A gilt brass NZ Volunteer Fern Leaf Collar badge. It has thick copper wire loops to back, with no maker mark. Size 23mm by 50mm. |
- Above: A British Kings Colonials Slouch Hat badge with QVC Crown. Formed in November 1901 in London from members throughout the Commonwealth. New Zealander's living in London would eventually form E Squadron in this British Yeomanry Regiment. Two copper looped lugs to back in a East/West configuration. No maker mark and size 58mm by 68.5mm (badge is curved).
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- Above Top: A gilt brass cap badge, circa 1900. It is associated with New Zealanders serving in the Anglo-Boer War, as a general New Zealand Volunteer badge (again worn up till and including WW1 by some Reinforcements) and as the Cap badge of E Squadron (New Zealand), The Kings Colonials Regiment. Two copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark. Size 33.5mm by 71.5mm.
- Above: Collar badges (Left and right) to E Squadron (New Zealand), The Kings Colonials Regiment. Center is a gilt fired brass version of the collar badge. It has a solid back with copper D shaped lugs. No maker mark. Size of all three are 17mm by 32mm. |
- Above: A 25mm, 1901 pattern, gilt brass button to King Edwards Horse. In 1914, after the 2nd King Edwards Horse was raised, it became the 1st King Edwards Horse. Maker marked to "HOBSON & SON LONDON" (B Jones collection)
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- Above: A 19mm 1901 pattern, gilt brass button to King Edwards Horse. Maker marked to "HOBSON & SON LONDON" (B Jones collection)
Other button sizes and marker marks: -16.2mm - HOBSON & SON LONDON - 16 5mm,- NO MAKER - 25mm - FIRMIN & SONS Ltd |
Badges to the NZ Contingents in the Anglo-Boer War
New Zealand contributed a total of 10 Contingents or 6 495 Officers and men, and some 8000 horse in support of the British Empire against the Boer's from October 1899, to the conflict's finish in 1902.
The 10th Contingent actually arrived in South African as the war drew to a end, and didn't fire a shot in anger. At the time (much like in New Zealand during WW1) local South African Jewelers made, by hand, badges for the Kiwi's to be worn on their slouch hats and shoulder straps. These were unofficial badges, mostly worn behind the lines and not on front-line duty. Like, later WW1 Reinforcement badge counterparts, they were worn out of personal taste and paid for by the Soldier himself. They must be viewed with a little caution though, as sadly they have been faked/reproduced in the past. - Opposite: A small silk ribbon worn on the pocket by members of the New Zealand public to show their solidarity with Britain in its fight. The word "UNITY" to top, with the colours Red and Blue ink on a White background. Sadly I can't make out the maker mark just below the "NZ" in the sea, in Red. Size (approximately as there is fraying to edges) 75mm by 35mm. |
- Above: A souvenir ribbon to the 1st Contingent, commemorating New Zealand's flags departure to South Africa (image from the internet).
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Generic New Zealand Badges
- Above: A hand cut, sheet brass slouch hat badge to a member of one of the New Zealand South African Contingents. It depicts a Kiwi over a Fern leaf, and the banner "NEW ZEALAND". Two wire looped lugs to back and no maker mark (image from the internet).
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- Above: A hand cut, sheet brass slouch hat badge to a member of one of the New Zealand South African Contingents. A fern leaf running through "NEW ZEALAND". Two wire looped lugs to back. No maker mark and size 36mm by 58mm.
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- Above: Another single piece, hand cut sheet brass "NEW ZEALAND" shoulder title. Two wire looped lugs to back. No maker mark, with size 23mm by 52mm.
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- Above: A pair of solid, die-stamped, darkened brass New Zealand Mounted Rifle (NZMR) shoulder titles. These are associated and worn during the Boer War by New Zealand contingents. Not maker marked and with two copper wire loops to back. Size 12.5mm by 37mm.
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- Above: A pair of die-stamped, void, gilt brass New Zealand Mounted Rifle (NZMR) shoulder titles. Not maker marked, with two copper looped lugs to back of each. These have been spotted also being worn by Auckland MR Reinforcements during WW1. Size 13mm by 37.5mm.
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1st New Zealand Contingent
The 1st Contingent, comprising of 215 Officers & Men, left Wellington on the 21st of October 1899, aboard the SS Waiwera.
Commanding Officer - Major Robin (later Lieut-Colonel)
By November 1900 nearly all of the 1st Contingent had returned for New Zealand.
Commanding Officer - Major Robin (later Lieut-Colonel)
By November 1900 nearly all of the 1st Contingent had returned for New Zealand.
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- Above: The reverse of the same token. Made from gilt brass, there is no maker mark. It has the words "1st 21. 10. 1899, 2nd 20. 1. 1900, 3rd 17. 2. 1900" and "N.Z CONTINGENTS SAILED, KIA ORA" (Morel 1899/1900/10.3 - Gilt, note it also came in Silver and Silver washed copper).
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- Above: A universal penny postcard (stamped Mar 1901 but dated in pen the 5th Mar 1901 to back) commemorating New Zealand's participation in the Boer War. The card depicts the "First Contingent Entraining at Capetown" in South Africa.
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- Above: A universal penny postcard (stamped 17th Dec 1900) commemorating New Zealand's participation in the Boer War. The card depicts "Presents For Our Boys", which is presumably gift parcels for the men serving in South Africa from people in New Zealand.
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2nd New Zealand Contingent
The 2nd Contingent, comprising of 266 Officers & Men, left Wellington on the 20th January 1900, aboard the SS Waiwera.
Sailed 20th Jan 1900, arrived Cape Town on the 25th of February 1900.
Commanding Officer - Major Montagu Cradock (later Colonel).
Sailed 20th Jan 1900, arrived Cape Town on the 25th of February 1900.
Commanding Officer - Major Montagu Cradock (later Colonel).
- Above: A silver commemorative token to the 2th Contingent. Sold to members of the public at the time, it has "RANFURLY GOVERNOR" on the banner to fern and "NEW ZEALAND" to top, "JANY 1900" and "WELLINGTON".
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- Above: The reverse of the same token. Made from silver, there is no maker mark. It has the words "SECOND N.Z. CONTINGENT", "1900" and "TRANSVAAL". Size 25mm by 22mm (Morel 1900/1).
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3rd New Zealand Contingent
The 3rd Contingent, comprising of 262 Officers & Men, left Lyttleton on the 17th February 1900.
Landed at East London.
Commanding Officer - Major Jowsey
31st March 1901, 300 men of the 2nd and 3rd Contingents returned home to New Zealand.
- Opposite: A souvenir label to the 3rd Contingent, sold to the public to commemorate their departure. It would have maybe hung on a piece of ribbon or string to a dress or suite at the top (image from the internet).
Landed at East London.
Commanding Officer - Major Jowsey
31st March 1901, 300 men of the 2nd and 3rd Contingents returned home to New Zealand.
- Opposite: A souvenir label to the 3rd Contingent, sold to the public to commemorate their departure. It would have maybe hung on a piece of ribbon or string to a dress or suite at the top (image from the internet).
- Above: A pair of die-stamped brass, non-void, New Zealand Rough Rider (NZRR) shoulder titles. worn by either the 3rd or 4th New Zealand Contingents. Two brass wire looped lugs to back of each. No maker mark, and size 15mm by 37mm.
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- Above: A commemorative token to either the 3rd or 4th Contingent, known as the "Rough Riders". Sold to members of the public at the time.
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- Above: The reverse of the same token. Made from silver plated copper, it has a fair bit of toning and wear to finish. No maker mark, and size 21.5mm diameter (Morel 1900/12A.2).
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4th New Zealand Contingent
The 4th Contingent, comprising of 462 Officers & Men, left Port Chalmers (Dunedin) on the 21st of March 1900, and Lyttleton on the 31st of March 1900.
Sailed with the 5th Contingent, and landed at Beira at the end of April 1900.
Two commanders, with Colonel Frederick Wyatt Francis commanding the Otago and Southland companies and Major Joe Sommerville in charge of the two North Island companies.
Returned to New Zealand end of May/early June 1901
They were disbanded in New Zealand on the 21st of July 1901.
Sailed with the 5th Contingent, and landed at Beira at the end of April 1900.
Two commanders, with Colonel Frederick Wyatt Francis commanding the Otago and Southland companies and Major Joe Sommerville in charge of the two North Island companies.
Returned to New Zealand end of May/early June 1901
They were disbanded in New Zealand on the 21st of July 1901.
- Above: A single piece, hand cut, sheet brass shoulder title to the 4th New Zealand Contingent. Both the 3rd and 4th were known as the Rough Riders, but the 4th was also referred to as the "Dandy 4th". Two looped lugs to back and size 13mm by 36mm.
- Opposite: A souvenir ribbon to the 4th Contingent, sold to the public to commemorate their departure. It would have been pinned to a dress or suite at the top (image from the internet). |
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- Above: A gilt brass commemorative token to the "Rough Riders". With words to edge "SUCCESS TO NEW ZEALAND ROUGH RIDERS"
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- Above: The reverse of the token with "BRITISH TRANSVAAL WAR. 1899 - 1900". Maker marked to "SWAN" to base, size 22.5mm (Morel 1899-1900/7A.1).
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- Above: A pewter (?) commemorative token to the "Rough Riders". With words to edge "SUCCESS TO NEW ZEALAND ROUGH RIDERS"
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- Above: The reverse of the token with "BRITISH TRANSVAAL WAR. 1899 - 1900". Maker marked to "SWAN" to base. Size 23mm diameter (Morel 1899-1900/7(?)).
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John Swan & Co Ltd, were founded in 1878, initially in Auckland, operating for 20 years there. It then moved to Dunedin, where the last family owner sold the business in 2015 (information from the RNSNZ website).
- Above: A gilt commemorative token to the NZ Contingents With words to edge "BRITISH TRANSVAAL WAR".
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- Above: The reverse of the token with "SUCCESS TO NEW ZEALAND CONTINGENT 1899 1900". Size 22.5mm diameter (Morel 1899-1900/1.3).
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- Above: A silver (?) commemorative token to the "Rough Riders". With words to edge "BRITISH TRANSVAAL WAR 99-1900"
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- Above: The reverse of the token with "SUCCESS TO NEW ZEALAND ROUGH RIDERS". Size 22mm diameter (Morel 1899-1900/6.1).
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5th New Zealand Contingent
The 5th Contingent, comprising of 591 Officers & Men, left Wellington and Lyttleton on the 31st of March 1900 on board the SS Maori and SS Waitemata.
Sailed with the 4th Contingent, and landed at Beira at the end of April 1900 .
Commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Stuart Newall.
Returned to New Zealand end of May/early June 1901
They were disbanded in New Zealand on the 21st of July 1901.
- Opposite: A single piece, hand cut sheet brass, shoulder title to the 5th New Zealand Contingent. Two looped lugs to back and size 26mm by 28mm.
Sailed with the 4th Contingent, and landed at Beira at the end of April 1900 .
Commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Stuart Newall.
Returned to New Zealand end of May/early June 1901
They were disbanded in New Zealand on the 21st of July 1901.
- Opposite: A single piece, hand cut sheet brass, shoulder title to the 5th New Zealand Contingent. Two looped lugs to back and size 26mm by 28mm.
- Above: A souvenir ribbon to the 5th Contingent, sold to the public to commemorate their departure. Note the banner "Good luck to the FIGHTING FIFTH" (image from the internet).
- Opposite: Entitled "Group portrait of four members of the New Zealand Mounted Rifles on active service in South Africa.1900-1901, Pretoria, by Robinson Christian Englestoft Nissen. Sadly none of the individuals are named, but shows the light khaki tunic worn by the Kiwi's during the war and the bandolier they used. The chap standing on the left (at back) is wearing straight shoulder titles, but are not clear enough to make out what they say ("NZMR" or "NZRR"?). Three wear British general service buttons to their tunic (likely QV Crowned), while the man seated on the right (to front) wears the 4 hole, plain type, made likely from bone. He also has a pair of spurs to his boots (Te Papa O.040417). |
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6th New Zealand Contingent
The 6th Contingent, comprising of 602 Officers & Men, left Auckland 30th of January 1901 on board the SS Cornwall.
Commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Joseph Henry Banks.
They were disbanded in New Zealand on the 11th of May 1902.
Commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Joseph Henry Banks.
They were disbanded in New Zealand on the 11th of May 1902.
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- Above: A single piece, hand cut, slouch hat badge in sheet brass to the 6th New Zealand Contingent. Some oxidation to front, but with two wire looped lugs to back. Like all these unofficial badges, there is no maker mark, and size is 36mm by 52mm.
- Opposite: A possible image of 3458 Sergt John Mcgoldrick, who was part of the 6th NZ Contingent. Note his slouch hat, which appears to have the above badge to its side. He wears a pair of "NZ" Fernleaf Collars, and his Queens South Africa medal, with bars "Transvaal", "Orange Free State" and "Cape Colony" (Nelson Museum collection 68834). |
- Opposite: A single piece, hand cut sheet brass, shoulder title to the 6th New Zealand Contingent. Two brass wire looped lugs to back. No maker mark and size 21.5mm by 50mm.
7th New Zealand Contingent
The 7th Contingent, comprising of 667 Officers & Men, left Wellington 6th of April 1901 on board SS Gulf of Taranto.
Commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Thomas William Porter.
Sailed from Durban on the 22nd of May for home.
The 7th suffered the most casualties of all the contingents, with only 350 of the 667 men returning "fit", home.
They were disbanded in New Zealand on the 30th of June 1902.
Commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Thomas William Porter.
Sailed from Durban on the 22nd of May for home.
The 7th suffered the most casualties of all the contingents, with only 350 of the 667 men returning "fit", home.
They were disbanded in New Zealand on the 30th of June 1902.
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- Above: A single piece, hand cut sheet brass, shoulder title to the 7th New Zealand Contingent. Two brass looped lugs to back, with no maker mark. Size 31mm by 35.5mm.
- Opposite: An image of 4207 Private Charles Robertson, who was part of 22nd Company (Wellington Section) and served with the 7th Contingent. He wears a light Khaki slouch Hat, tunic, riding breeches typical of the New Zealand Contingents. Note the buttons are plain, 4 hole type, likely made from bone. It highlights the fact that very little metal insignia was worn in the field at the time. Taken in 1901, in Wellington, by Patrick Joseph Feeney (Te Papa O.045276). |
8th New Zealand Contingent
The 8th Contingent, comprising of 1120 Officers & Men, left Auckland on the 29th of January 1902 on board the SS Surrey, and Lyttleton on the 8th of February 1902 on board the SS Cornwall.
A rail accident on the 12th of April 1902, saw 14 of the contingent loose their lives, with a similar amount injured at Machavie.
Commanded by Colonel Richard Hutton Davies.
They sailed home in July 1902.
A rail accident on the 12th of April 1902, saw 14 of the contingent loose their lives, with a similar amount injured at Machavie.
Commanded by Colonel Richard Hutton Davies.
They sailed home in July 1902.
- Above: A commemorative token to the New Zealand Contingents. Sold to members of the public at the time. To outer edge are the words "SUCCESS TO NEW ZEALAND CONTINGENT 1899 - 1900".
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- Above: The reverse of the same token. Made from gilt brass, it has some toning and wear. Not maker marked, with the words "BRITISH TRANSVAAL WAR. Size 24mm diameter (Morel 1899-1900/1A.2).
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9th New Zealand Contingent
The 9th Contingent, comprising of 1071 Officers & Men, left Port Chalmers (Dunedin) on the 12th of March 1902 on board the SS Kent, and Auckland on the 20th of March 1902 on board the SS Devon.
A officer of the 9th, Lieutenant Robert M'Keigh, was the last New Zealander to be killed in the Boer War, on the 4th of June 1902. 4 days after the end of the war was announced, due to a misunderstanding with some Boers near Vereeniging. Lieutenant Henry Rayne was wounded at the same time.
The contingent sailed home in July 1902.
A officer of the 9th, Lieutenant Robert M'Keigh, was the last New Zealander to be killed in the Boer War, on the 4th of June 1902. 4 days after the end of the war was announced, due to a misunderstanding with some Boers near Vereeniging. Lieutenant Henry Rayne was wounded at the same time.
The contingent sailed home in July 1902.
10th New Zealand Contingent
The 10th Contingent, comprising of 1251 Officers & Men, left Wellington on the 14th of April 1902 on board the SS Drayton Grange, and Lyttleton on the 19th of April 1902 on board the SS Norfolk.
They arrived in late May, and were at Newcastle, Natal, on the 27th of May 1902, 4 days before the end of the war was declared.
The contingent sailed home in July 1902.
- Opposite: A image of Francis Marion Bates Fisher, dated the 18th of Nov 1902.
Sadly the peak of his cap obscures his badge, but a faint "N" and "Z" can be just made out either side of what probably is a brass Fern leaf.
Francis served as a Captain with the 10th New Zealand Contingent to South Africa, and later became a noted New Zealand politician, and International Tennis player.
They arrived in late May, and were at Newcastle, Natal, on the 27th of May 1902, 4 days before the end of the war was declared.
The contingent sailed home in July 1902.
- Opposite: A image of Francis Marion Bates Fisher, dated the 18th of Nov 1902.
Sadly the peak of his cap obscures his badge, but a faint "N" and "Z" can be just made out either side of what probably is a brass Fern leaf.
Francis served as a Captain with the 10th New Zealand Contingent to South Africa, and later became a noted New Zealand politician, and International Tennis player.
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- Above: A darkened brass Officers Cap or Collar badge circa 1900, and worn during the Boer War. Two looped lugs to back. Size 27mm (widest part of the fern) by 62mm. - Opposite: A British issued Lion head hook, worn by the Kiwi's during the Boer War (and beyond) to hold back one flap of their Slouch hat. |
Many New Zealanders made their own way to South Africa, via their own means, and joined local colonial raised units in country at the time.
One of these was Kitchener's Horse, which was a colonial Mounted Rifles Regiment, which was reported to have about 50 New Zealanders in its ranks (Evening Post - 14th Jan 1901).
- Opposite: A sheet brass slouch hat or shoulder title to Kitchener's Horse. Hand cut, with two wire looped lugs to back. No maker mark and size 28mm by 56.5mm.
One of these was Kitchener's Horse, which was a colonial Mounted Rifles Regiment, which was reported to have about 50 New Zealanders in its ranks (Evening Post - 14th Jan 1901).
- Opposite: A sheet brass slouch hat or shoulder title to Kitchener's Horse. Hand cut, with two wire looped lugs to back. No maker mark and size 28mm by 56.5mm.
- Above: A Veterans badge in the form of a NZ Fern Collar which has been silvered, its lugs removed, and a pin attached to back. This has been threaded through a piece of Queens South Africa Medal ribbon. No maker mark. Badge size 23mm by 50mm.
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- Above: A veteran or sweethearts badge in the form of a NZ Collar, which has had its lugs removed, and a brooch fitting attached to back. Extra gilt has been applied to both front and back. No maker mark. Size is 25mm by 50mm.
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The Bayonets
Over the years, the New Zealand Militia and Volunteers had a number of different rifles and therefore Bayonets. Some were gained from the British Forces station in NZ up to 1870, while subsequent types came with the rifles which were ordered on numerous occasions by the NZ Government.
The process of obtaining new rifles via London, seems long and cumbersome, and was also often met with a slow response or supply issues. It meant that what was available was often outdated or needed much reworking. The following are just a few examples of the Bayonets purchased by the NZ Government during the Volunteer period. Most are British marked, with New Zealand not marking its Bayonets until the early 20th century.
The process of obtaining new rifles via London, seems long and cumbersome, and was also often met with a slow response or supply issues. It meant that what was available was often outdated or needed much reworking. The following are just a few examples of the Bayonets purchased by the NZ Government during the Volunteer period. Most are British marked, with New Zealand not marking its Bayonets until the early 20th century.
The 1853 Patt Socket Bayonet
The following 1853 Patt socket bayonet was used with the Long and Medium versions of the Snider Rifle
The following 1853 Patt socket bayonet was used with the Long and Medium versions of the Snider Rifle
- Above: A 1853 Patterned socket bayonet. Blade is 435mm long, but note, missing its locking ring around the socket.
- Above: A reverse view of the same bayonet.
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- Opposite Far Left, Left and Above: The same 1853 Patt Socket bayonet. Far left shows the very faint markings to the blade of "E" over crown and "30". Left shows the socket with the number "781" stamped into the steel. Above, although not used with the above Short Snider (using the Sword bayonet instead), it still fits. Note how the groove in the socket twists and fits over the foresight of the rifle. The bayonet sits to the right of the barrel when "locked in" to avoid the cleaning rod below the barrel.
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The 1888 Patt Bayonet
The Mark 1, 1888 pattern Bayonet had a long service life in New Zealand, and was first purchased in 1898 to be used with the Martini Enfield Artillery carbine, and later with the NZ Pattern Lee Enfield carbine.
Purchased in numbers for the Mounted Rifle Volunteer units, it was then issued to the 1st through to 4th, and part of the 5th Contingents of New Zealand Mounted Troops to the Anglo-Boer War in South Africa.
During WW1, New Zealand troops left NZ with the 1888 Patterned bayonet as part of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force, but upon arriving in Egypt were given the 1907 pattern Bayonet.
This remained the Bayonet for training during WW1 in NZ, and was even later issued to Home Guard units during WW2.
The Mark 1, 1888 pattern Bayonet had a long service life in New Zealand, and was first purchased in 1898 to be used with the Martini Enfield Artillery carbine, and later with the NZ Pattern Lee Enfield carbine.
Purchased in numbers for the Mounted Rifle Volunteer units, it was then issued to the 1st through to 4th, and part of the 5th Contingents of New Zealand Mounted Troops to the Anglo-Boer War in South Africa.
During WW1, New Zealand troops left NZ with the 1888 Patterned bayonet as part of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force, but upon arriving in Egypt were given the 1907 pattern Bayonet.
This remained the Bayonet for training during WW1 in NZ, and was even later issued to Home Guard units during WW2.
- Above: Two examples of 1888 Patt, Mark I bayonets with their scabbards. Length of blade is approximately 305mm, with many markings.
- Above: The reverse of the two 1888 Patt, Mark I Bayonets. These two (along with another) were picked up in Winchester, New Zealand, at a Swap Meet, which was held annually in the domain for a number of years. He purchased them for $15 NZD each at the time (1984ish). Those were the days!
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- Above Left & Right: These pictures show the above top 1888 Patt Bayonet. No markings to crosspiece, with Broardarrow, "WD", QV crown over "35" and "W", with the "X" for bend acceptance in the left picture. The right has QV crown over "VR", "9'96" (for Sept 1896) and "WILKINSON LONDON". There are also stampings to the wooden grips, with QV crown over "49" and a "W" either side. Someone has stamped "73" and "357" into one side of the wood.
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- Above Left & Right: These pictures show the above bottom 1888 Patt Bayonet. Stamped "C120" to crosspiece, wit the "C" possibly indicating Central Military District (lower half of the North Island). The blade has the Broardarrow, "WD", QV crown over "58" and "E", with the "X" for bend acceptance in the left picture. The right has QV crown over "VR", "7'96" (for July 1896). There are also stampings to the wooden grips, but are unreadable. The pommel is stamped "12949", "C.C", (underline), "B.S", (underline) and "4". All of which has been struck through with a line.
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In 1921, New Zealand was divided into three Military Districts for organisational purposes by the NZ Defense Force. On some 1907 patterned Bayonets, with "NZ" stamped to the pommel, it has been noted that "N" stands for the Northern District (top half of the North Island), "C" for Central Military District (lower half of the North Island) and "S" for Southern District (whole of the South Island).
The 1895 Patt Socket Bayonet
This bayonet in the end had a long life, but not for what it was intended for.
The 1895 Patt was a reworked bayonet from 1876 Patt Martini Henry bayonets when New Zealand adopted the Martini Enfield .303 rifle which had a small barrel.
They took the earlier bayonet, cutting it down and rebushing the socket. The socket was then bored and slotted, and fitted with a new locking ring, stop, and screw arrangement to fit the smaller bored/barreled rifle. When the bayonet was "fixed" to the rifle, the blade was below, instead of at the side, like on the Martini Henry rifles and Sniders before.
This bayonet in the end had a long life, but not for what it was intended for.
The 1895 Patt was a reworked bayonet from 1876 Patt Martini Henry bayonets when New Zealand adopted the Martini Enfield .303 rifle which had a small barrel.
They took the earlier bayonet, cutting it down and rebushing the socket. The socket was then bored and slotted, and fitted with a new locking ring, stop, and screw arrangement to fit the smaller bored/barreled rifle. When the bayonet was "fixed" to the rifle, the blade was below, instead of at the side, like on the Martini Henry rifles and Sniders before.
- Above: An image of a 1895 patterned socket bayonet. The blade is 540mm long. Note the socket is broken, and missing the first portion.
- Above: A reverse view of the say 1895 Patt socket bayonet.
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- Above Left, Center & Right: Left shows a closeup of the blade with the faint marks of "M", broadarrow, "WD", crown, "46", "E", "96". There are other marks, but they are faint. To socket is the number "1666" (Center). While Right shows the broken socket with the lock ring still present but bent.
- Opposite: This is an image from a small album from a New Zealand Rifle Brigade reinforcement (sitting far left) during his training time and subsequent journey overseas during WW1. Sadly no name, but likely 1916/1917 in date. Note the central tent pole. At its base is a socket bayonet (maybe a 1895 Pat) with a candle stuck in its socket. The point of the bayonet is through the floorboards, in the ground.
The following is from the New Zealand Arms Register No. 156 bulletin covering the 1895 Patt bayonet:
"A significant number of these bayonets have been observed broken at the step/join between the original socket and the new rear forging, this is thought to be due to rough treatment and the thinness of the bush at this point. It has been reported that “The reason you find so many bayonets with broken socket was that they were later issued as candle holders in Bell Tents, the hammering into the ground caused damage to the socket. I have one from one of my fathers TF (Territorial Force) mates he acquired it at his first Annual Camp in 1927 it still had candle grease in the socket and needed a bit of heat to straighten out.”"
It seems they were issued in WW1 too.
Note on the foremost rifle leaning against the pile of blankets, on the fore end of the wood you can see a circular device. This is the front volley sight. The volley sights on the SMLE rifle were a well intentioned poor idea. They were for a company inaccurately shooting at long distance targets, but were obsoleted by the wide use of the Machine gun. It was removed from post 1915 manufactured rifles.
The following is from the New Zealand Arms Register No. 156 bulletin covering the 1895 Patt bayonet:
"A significant number of these bayonets have been observed broken at the step/join between the original socket and the new rear forging, this is thought to be due to rough treatment and the thinness of the bush at this point. It has been reported that “The reason you find so many bayonets with broken socket was that they were later issued as candle holders in Bell Tents, the hammering into the ground caused damage to the socket. I have one from one of my fathers TF (Territorial Force) mates he acquired it at his first Annual Camp in 1927 it still had candle grease in the socket and needed a bit of heat to straighten out.”"
It seems they were issued in WW1 too.
Note on the foremost rifle leaning against the pile of blankets, on the fore end of the wood you can see a circular device. This is the front volley sight. The volley sights on the SMLE rifle were a well intentioned poor idea. They were for a company inaccurately shooting at long distance targets, but were obsoleted by the wide use of the Machine gun. It was removed from post 1915 manufactured rifles.
Generic New Zealand Mounted Rifle Volunteer Badges
- Above Left: A large Horse Breastplate badge with "VR" - Victoria Regina and worn by Mounted Rifle units which did not have their own distinct insignia. This one was purportedly dug up in New Zealand. It has two rivets to back, with washers attached. No maker mark.
- Above Right: A similar, but slightly smaller Horse Breastplate badge. Two rivet posts to back in a North/South configuration. No maker mark. |
- Above Left: A small Bridal Boss badge with "VR" - Victoria Regina to center. Two rivet posts to back in a North/South configuration. No maker mark.
- Above Right: A similar, but slightly smaller Bridal Boss badge. Again two rivet posts to back in a North/South configuration. No maker mark. Note the difference in crown. Motto: Honi Soit Qui Mal Y Pense (Shame on him who thinks evil of it). |
- Above: A Victorian era, Volunteer, Horse Breastplate with the words "Infantry Mounted Officers". Two rivet posts to back in a North/South configuration. No maker mark.
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- Above: Similar to above, a Bridal Bose, in gilt cast brass with the cypher of "ERVII" or Edward Regina - 7th. King Edward 7th reigned from 1901 to his death in 1910. Two rivet posts to back in a North/South configuration, with no maker mark.
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- Above: A New Zealand Volunteer, Horse Breastplate with Kings crown, and "NZ" to center. Two rivet posts to back in a North/South configuration. No maker mark. Size 84mm by 46mm.
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Generic New Zealand Engineer Volunteer Badges
Units of NZ Engineer Volunteers had existed as far back as 1865 (Canterbury Engineer Volunteers), but in Jan 1903, they were reorganised, to form the New Zealand Engineer Volunteer Regiment - consisting of 6 companies.
- No. 1 Company NZEV (Canterbury Engineer Volunteers).
- No. 2 Company NZEV (Dunedin Engineer Volunteers).
- No. 3 Company NZEV (Devonport Naval Submarine Mining Volunteers).
- No. 4 Company NZEV (Auckland Engineer Volunteers).
- No. 5 Company NZEV (Wellington Engineer Volunteers).
- No. 6 Company NZEV (Wellington Submarine Mining Volunteers).
- No. 1 Company NZEV (Canterbury Engineer Volunteers).
- No. 2 Company NZEV (Dunedin Engineer Volunteers).
- No. 3 Company NZEV (Devonport Naval Submarine Mining Volunteers).
- No. 4 Company NZEV (Auckland Engineer Volunteers).
- No. 5 Company NZEV (Wellington Engineer Volunteers).
- No. 6 Company NZEV (Wellington Submarine Mining Volunteers).
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- Above: A gilt brass cap badge to the New Zealand Engineer Volunteers, with Edward 7th Cypher to center (1901 to 1910). This generic pattern would have been worn by some of the above Company's. Two copper looped lugs and size 46mm by 40mm.
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- Above: A black and white photo of a generic helmet plate to the New Zealand Engineer Volunteers. Gilt brass, it has had its QVC crown replaced with that of a Kings "Tudor" crown to extend its life past 1902 and the change of monarch. Note the lower banner with "NZ" and "ENGINEER VOLUNTEER"
It has been recorded that only the Hauraki (prior to 1903) and Canterbury NZEV had their own distinct metal insignia.
In 1907 the title of the Regiment was changed again to the New Zealand Engineer Regiment, with two companies disbanding, with now only 4 companies as follows:
- No. 1 Company - Canterbury
- No. 2 Company - Dunedin
- No. 3 Company - Auckland
- No. 4 Company - Wellington
It has been recorded that only the Hauraki (prior to 1903) and Canterbury NZEV had their own distinct metal insignia.
In 1907 the title of the Regiment was changed again to the New Zealand Engineer Regiment, with two companies disbanding, with now only 4 companies as follows:
- No. 1 Company - Canterbury
- No. 2 Company - Dunedin
- No. 3 Company - Auckland
- No. 4 Company - Wellington
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- Above: A post 1902, gilt brass, fixed shank, 25mm button to the New Zealand Engineer Volunteers. Maker mark of "HALLENSTEIN BROTHERS" to back.
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- Above: A post 1902, gilt brass, fixed shank, 16.3mm button to the New Zealand Engineer Volunteers. Maker mark of "HALLENSTEIN BROTHERS" to back. (B Jones collection).
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Other noted makers of the above button (QVC crowned - B Jones Collection):
25mm - E STILLWELL & SON 925 BARBICAN & LITTLEBRITAIN
24.9mm - E STILLWELL & SON BARBICAN
24.7mm - THE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY
23.4mm - SAMUEL BROTHERS Ltd LONDON
24mm - C PITT & Co 50 St MARTINS LANE
24mm - CHATHAM HARMAN & Co
19mm - No maker mark
Other NZ Volunteer Engineers 1902 Patt Button Sizes ( - B Jones collection):
16.8mm "Hallenstein Bros", 24.6mm "Hallenstein Brothers" (gilt).
The following are early New Zealand Engineer shoulder titles, pre WW1 and possible volunteer period. The curved NZE title was worn from WW1 onwards.
25mm - E STILLWELL & SON 925 BARBICAN & LITTLEBRITAIN
24.9mm - E STILLWELL & SON BARBICAN
24.7mm - THE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY
23.4mm - SAMUEL BROTHERS Ltd LONDON
24mm - C PITT & Co 50 St MARTINS LANE
24mm - CHATHAM HARMAN & Co
19mm - No maker mark
Other NZ Volunteer Engineers 1902 Patt Button Sizes ( - B Jones collection):
16.8mm "Hallenstein Bros", 24.6mm "Hallenstein Brothers" (gilt).
The following are early New Zealand Engineer shoulder titles, pre WW1 and possible volunteer period. The curved NZE title was worn from WW1 onwards.
- Above: A small, straight gilt brass pair of Shoulder Titles to the New Zealand Engineers. Two copper looped lugs to back on each. No maker mark.
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- Above: A again small, straight gilt brass pair of Shoulder Titles to the New Zealand Engineers. Two copper looped lugs to back on each. No maker mark.
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- Above: A again small, straight gilt brass pair of Shoulder Titles to the New Zealand Engineers. Two copper looped lugs to back on each. No maker mark.
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- Above: A unusual, sheet brass, hand cut shoulder title to the New Zealand Engineers. It has two wire brass loops to back, similar to what are found on Boer War New Zealand badges. No maker mark.
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Generic New Zealand Artillery Volunteer Badges
Artillery in New Zealand has a complicated and over-laping unit history.
The modern day Royal Regiment of New Zealand Artillery's can trace its history back to Volunteer Forces, dating from February 1866, when the first field artillery battery and naval artillery corps were formed.
- In December 1878 various field batteries were administratively grouped together as the New Zealand Regiment of Artillery Volunteers (NZAV).
- From 1902, the Naval Artillery Batteries were grouped together as the New Zealand Garrison Artillery Volunteers (NZGAV).
- With the establishment of New Zealand's coast defences from the mid-1880s, there was a need for a creation of a small permanent artillery force within the Permanent Military Force (formed 1886), part of which was designated the the Royal New Zealand Artillery (RNZA) on 15 October 1902.
The modern day Royal Regiment of New Zealand Artillery's can trace its history back to Volunteer Forces, dating from February 1866, when the first field artillery battery and naval artillery corps were formed.
- In December 1878 various field batteries were administratively grouped together as the New Zealand Regiment of Artillery Volunteers (NZAV).
- From 1902, the Naval Artillery Batteries were grouped together as the New Zealand Garrison Artillery Volunteers (NZGAV).
- With the establishment of New Zealand's coast defences from the mid-1880s, there was a need for a creation of a small permanent artillery force within the Permanent Military Force (formed 1886), part of which was designated the the Royal New Zealand Artillery (RNZA) on 15 October 1902.
- Above: A white metal, generic Helmet Plate to the New Zealand Regiment of Artillery Volunteers. Note the small white metal, separate "NZ" plaque to center, which is attached two-thirds of the way down. The plate dates in theory pre 1895, as all volunteer units were instructed to only use gilt brass insignia on their uniforms post this date. Three lugs to back, with size 108mm by 88mm (HP is curved).
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- Above: A similar white metal, generic Helmet Plate to the New Zealand Regiment of Artillery Volunteers. Note this time the "NZ" forms part of the design, and is die stamped into the center of the plate.
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- Above: A white metal or Silver cross belt tip for a Artillery Officers pouch belt. 4 copper looped lugs to back in a East, West, North and South configuration. Sadly two are missing/snapped off.
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- Above: A superb image of a Auckland Artillery Volunteer, with White Helmet, Helmet Plate and ball fixing to top. Sadly I cannot tell whether he wears a generic QVC Artillery plate or whether it has a "NZ" plaque to front. He also has "NZA" embroidered to his shoulder titles. To back, you can just see his pouch, with a field gun badge to front (similar to below). He wears a generic QVC belt buckle to his belt (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 1729-233).
- Above: A white metal, 2 piece Volunteer Artillery pouch badge. Separate white metal wheel attached to a white metal backing. Three short thread posts to back. Roughly 93mm by 47mm. No maker mark.
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- Above Right, Top & Bottom: A fixing ring in white metal for a pouch. Two of these would have been on either side, and allowed for the cross-belt to be attached to the pouch on either side/ends. Screw thread to back, with a metal tang which has broken off, a similar design can be seen on the above photo of the Auckland Artillery Volunteer, but its loop is horizontal and not vertical like this one. Size 54mm by 18mm, with loop being 15mm in diameter (external).
- Above: A post 1878 New Zealand Regiment Artillery Volunteers Senior NCO's or Officers Belt center in white metal. Note the void to center, around gun and crown, the Other Ranks belt center is solid. Two small metal tab's in a North/South configuration to allow attachment to a buckle. Size 43mm in diameter.
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- Above: A post 1878 New Zealand Regiment Artillery Volunteers Other Ranks belt buckle. It has a separate non-void center in white metal attached by two tabs to its white metal backing plate. Diameter of centre 42.8mm (image from the internet).
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- Above: A 23mm white metal 1870 Patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button. Worn by both British and New Zealand Artillery Forces, with QVC crown. Some of these do appear to have been made for New Zealand Businesses, and come with a NZ maker to back. With flexible shank and brass backing, its Maker is "HOBSON & SONS, LEXINGTON ST, LONDON".
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- Opposite: A 22mm Silver plated brass 1870 Patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button. Brass backed and with a flexible shank, There is no maker mark.
- Other Makers of the 1870 Patt White Metal QVC Volunteer Button (Brentt Jones collection):
- 15.6mm "E Stillwell & Son London", 15.8mm "Hobson & Son London", 16mm "PERSTA ET PREVALE", 16.1mm & 16.8mm "Hobson & Son London", 16.2mm No Maker, 16.7mm "Hobson & Sons London", 17mm "Hobson & Son 13&5 Lexington St London", 17.2mm No Maker, 17.4mm "Jennens & Co London (white metal and copper cannon).
- 21.5mm "The New Zealand Clothing Factory", 21.7mm "Cook & Palmer Woolwich", 22.3mm "The New Zealand Clothing Factory", 22.4mm "Hobson & Sons Haymarket London 38 Windmill St", 22.8mm "Player Bro's Birmm", 22.8mm "Crossed Sword Crossed Trade Swords Mark Made in England, Make", 23mm "Fast Shanks", 23mm "Persta et prevale", 23.2mm "Hobson & Sons Lexington St London", 23.3mm No Mark, 23.4mm "Firmin & Sons London", 23.5mm "Hammond & Co Newcastle Staff", 23.6mm "Hobson & Son Haymarket London", 23.6mm "Firmin & Sons London" (copper cannon), 23.7mm "Standard Extra Treble", 23.7mm "Jennens & Co London", 23.8mm "Whites R.A Agency Woolwich", 23.9mm "Samual Brothers London",
(have 2 that are connected, think they came off same uniform) 16.7mm "Made in England Sword Mark, plain front", 24mm "Samual Brothers London".
- Other Makers of the 1870 Patt White Metal QVC Volunteer Button (Brentt Jones collection):
- 15.6mm "E Stillwell & Son London", 15.8mm "Hobson & Son London", 16mm "PERSTA ET PREVALE", 16.1mm & 16.8mm "Hobson & Son London", 16.2mm No Maker, 16.7mm "Hobson & Sons London", 17mm "Hobson & Son 13&5 Lexington St London", 17.2mm No Maker, 17.4mm "Jennens & Co London (white metal and copper cannon).
- 21.5mm "The New Zealand Clothing Factory", 21.7mm "Cook & Palmer Woolwich", 22.3mm "The New Zealand Clothing Factory", 22.4mm "Hobson & Sons Haymarket London 38 Windmill St", 22.8mm "Player Bro's Birmm", 22.8mm "Crossed Sword Crossed Trade Swords Mark Made in England, Make", 23mm "Fast Shanks", 23mm "Persta et prevale", 23.2mm "Hobson & Sons Lexington St London", 23.3mm No Mark, 23.4mm "Firmin & Sons London", 23.5mm "Hammond & Co Newcastle Staff", 23.6mm "Hobson & Son Haymarket London", 23.6mm "Firmin & Sons London" (copper cannon), 23.7mm "Standard Extra Treble", 23.7mm "Jennens & Co London", 23.8mm "Whites R.A Agency Woolwich", 23.9mm "Samual Brothers London",
(have 2 that are connected, think they came off same uniform) 16.7mm "Made in England Sword Mark, plain front", 24mm "Samual Brothers London".
- Above: A white metal Volunteer Busby Badge, worn by some New Zealand Volunteer Artillery units who adopted that form of head dress.
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- Above: A Volunteer Artillery Busby. I purchased this in the UK, so is a British one, but this pattern was available and worn in New Zealand by Artillery Volunteers and members of Permanent Artillery Force.
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- Above: A view of how the white metal Busby badge was attached to the Busby. A separate brass slot is sewn onto the side of the Busby and the slider to the back of the badge slots into this.
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- Above: Opposite to the the badge, on the right hand side, under the red flap is a leather tab for attaching the cord, which was worn wrapped around the Busby. I am missing this and the chin-strap.
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- Above: A front view of the helmet. Note the fur has fallen out with time and poor storage.
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- Above: A pic of the flap, in felt material, which hangs to down the right-hand side. This has been replaced at some stage, and is not in the same state as the rest of the Busby.
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- Above: The inside of the Busby, showing liner and sweat-band. Sadly not maker or unit marked.
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- Above: A white metal British Volunteer Artillery Belt center adopted by some New Zealand Volunteer units from 1870 to 1881. Two copper tabs in a North/South configuration to back hold it to a back plate buckle.
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All British badges and accoutrements were available to wear by Volunteer units in New Zealand at the time, and it much depended on taste and expense as to how far they adopted their own insignia or bought from what was available in the UK. In 1895 orders were given that all Volunteer units adopt gilt brass insignia. I imagine that this was NOT completed over-night and would have taken many years for units to fully comply.
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- Above Right & Opposite: An all gilt Artillery Officers cross strap and pouch. Note the same "flaming Grenade" belt tip, but in gilt attached to the belt. The pouch bears the British Royal Coat of Arms, with Queen Victoria Crown and a post 1874 Cannon in gilt metal.
Sadly the pouch has dulled with age, but still a stunning example of craftsmanship of the time. |
Top, Above and Opposite: Parts of a generic gilt brass waste belt worn by British as well as New Zealand Volunteer Artillery Forces. Top shows a cross belt and sword hanger which would have attached to a similar braided belt which would have had the above belt clasp. Sadly just one side, it is 3 piece, with separate crown and lion attached to backing, and separate snake clip with motto.
- Opposite is a close-up of the cross belt strap and sword hanger buckles, depicting a pair of lion heads to each strap/buckle. |
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- Above: A gilt brass pouch badge depicting a Volunteer period field gun. Three screw threads to back, with extra separate wheel to center. Size 34mm by 83mm.
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- Above: A large, single piece, gilt brass sleeve badge or possible pouch badge depicting a Volunteer period field gun. Three looped lugs to back, with size 32mm by 72mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass, post 1895 Volunteer Busby Badge, worn by some New Zealand Volunteer Artillery units who adopted that form of head dress. Size 85mm by 45mm (Roughly, as there are some dings to edge).
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- Above: A post 1902, Other Ranks Brass Belt Buckle center to the New Zealand Regiment Artillery Volunteers. This is with kings crown to top. Diameter 42.3mm (image from the internet).
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- Above: A slouch hat hook, worn by the New Zealand Regiment Artillery Volunteers in gilt brass, with washer and single nut and thread to back. Size 50mm by 20mm.
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- Above: A brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Artillery Volunteers (N.Z.A.V). Two copper loops to back, with no maker mark. Size 14mm by 35mm.
- Opposite: A generic, gilt brass British Royal Artillery Helmet Plate, worn by New Zealand Volunteer Artillery units post 1895 to their Blue coloured Home Service cloth Helmets. Three copper loops to back, one behind the crown, while two in a East/West configuration, on either side of the middle banner. No maker mark (image from the internet). |
- Above: A 23mm, gilt brass 1870 patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button. Brass backed and with a fixed shank. Maker marked to "THE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY".
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- Above Left: A 24mm gilt brass 1870 patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button. Brass backed and with a fixed shank. Maker marked to "E. STILLWELL & SON, BARBICAN, LONDON".
- Above Right: A 24mm gilt brass 1870 patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button. Brass backed and with a fixed shank. Maker marked to "PITT & Co, 50 ST MARTANS LANE, LONDON". |
- Above Left: A 24mm gilt brass 1870 patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button. Brass backed and with a fixed shank. Maker marked to "JENNENS & Co, LONDON".
- Above Right: A 23mm gilt brass 1870 patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button. Brass backed and with a flexible shank. Maker marked to "HOBSON & SONS, LEXINGTON ST, LONDON". |
- Above Left: A 22.5mm gilt brass 1870 patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button. Brass backed and with a flexible shank. Maker marked to "SMITH & WRIGHT, BIRMINGHAM".
- Above Right: A 22.5mm gilt brass 1870 patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button. Brass backed and with a flexible shank. Maker marked to "SMITH & WRIGHT LIMITED, BIRMINGHAM". |
- Above Left: A 17mm gilt brass 1870 patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button. Brass backed and with a flexible shank. Maker marked to "SMITH & WRIGHT LTD, BIRMINGHAM".
- Above Center: A 17mm gilt brass 1870 patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button. Brass backed and with a flexible shank. Maker marked to "SMITH & WRIGHT, BIRMINGHAM". - Above Right: A 17mm gilt brass 1870 patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button. Brass backed and with a fixed shank. Maker marked to "W TWIGG & Co, BIRMINGHAM". |
- Opposite: A 17mm gilt brass 1870 patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button which has a link and brass flange added.
The button is brass backed and with a flexible shank. Maker marked to "SMITH & WRIGHT, BIRMINGHAM".
- Other Makers of the 1870 Patt Brass QVC Volunteer Button (Brentt Jones collection):
- 22mm "Smith & Wright Limited Birmingham" (gilt), 22mm "Smith & Wright Limited Birmingham", 22.2mm "Player Bros Birmm", 22.3mm "Hobson & Son Haymarket London" (gilt), 22.4mm "Firmin & Sons Ld London", 22.6mm "Made In New Zealand sword make crossed swords trade mark," 22.6mm "The New Zealand Clothing Factory", 23mm "E Stillwell & son London", 23mm "Hobson & Sons Lexington St London", 23mm no maker, 23.4mm "Hickes Atkinson & sons Melbourne", 23.6mm "Jennens & Co London", 23.7mm "Pitt & Co 50 St Martins Lane London" (gilt), 24.5mm "J Purchase Woolwich R.M.A.",
- 15.7mm & 16mm "W Dowler& Sons Birm", 16mm No Mark, 16mm "Hobson & Sons Lexington St London" (gilt), 16.2mm "Firmin & Sons Ld London" (gilt), 16.2mm "Player Bro's B", 16.2mm No Mark, 16.4mm "Extra Rich Quality", 16.4mm "Smith & Wright Birmingham", 16.5mm "W T Wigg & Co Birmingham", 16.7mm "Extra Rich ..", 16.8mm "W T Wigg n& Co Birmingham",17mm "Smith & Wright Ltd Birmingham", 17mm "Smith & Wright Ltd Birmingham" (copper), 17mm No Mark,
The button is brass backed and with a flexible shank. Maker marked to "SMITH & WRIGHT, BIRMINGHAM".
- Other Makers of the 1870 Patt Brass QVC Volunteer Button (Brentt Jones collection):
- 22mm "Smith & Wright Limited Birmingham" (gilt), 22mm "Smith & Wright Limited Birmingham", 22.2mm "Player Bros Birmm", 22.3mm "Hobson & Son Haymarket London" (gilt), 22.4mm "Firmin & Sons Ld London", 22.6mm "Made In New Zealand sword make crossed swords trade mark," 22.6mm "The New Zealand Clothing Factory", 23mm "E Stillwell & son London", 23mm "Hobson & Sons Lexington St London", 23mm no maker, 23.4mm "Hickes Atkinson & sons Melbourne", 23.6mm "Jennens & Co London", 23.7mm "Pitt & Co 50 St Martins Lane London" (gilt), 24.5mm "J Purchase Woolwich R.M.A.",
- 15.7mm & 16mm "W Dowler& Sons Birm", 16mm No Mark, 16mm "Hobson & Sons Lexington St London" (gilt), 16.2mm "Firmin & Sons Ld London" (gilt), 16.2mm "Player Bro's B", 16.2mm No Mark, 16.4mm "Extra Rich Quality", 16.4mm "Smith & Wright Birmingham", 16.5mm "W T Wigg & Co Birmingham", 16.7mm "Extra Rich ..", 16.8mm "W T Wigg n& Co Birmingham",17mm "Smith & Wright Ltd Birmingham", 17mm "Smith & Wright Ltd Birmingham" (copper), 17mm No Mark,
- Above: A pair of 1907 Patt darkened brass collar badges to the New Zealand Field Artillery. Note the 7 flamed grenade worn by the Artillery. Both have the separate lower banner with N.Z.F.A, which has been added to the base of the grenade. Both have two copper looped lugs, in a North/South configuration. A maker plaque, to the back base of the grenade is to "J R Gaunt London".
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- Above: A single 1907 patt darkened bronze collar badge to the New Zealand Field Artillery. Separate lower banner with N.Z.F.A, which has been added to the base of the grenade. Again two copper looped lugs, in a North/South configuration. No maker mark.
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- Above: A pair of 1902 patt, darkened brass collar badges to the New Zealand Garrison Artillery. Note the 7 flamed grenade worn by the Artillery. Both have the separate lower banner with N.Z.G.A, which has been added to the base of the grenade. Both have two copper looped lugs, in a North/South configuration. A maker plaque, to the back base of the grenade is to "J R Gaunt London".
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- Above: A matching pair of gilt brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Garrison Artillery. Both have hex type brass lugs to back and the maker mark impressed to the back of the "Z" to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 15mm by 51.5mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass and enamel button-hole badge worn by members of the New Zealand Garrison Artillery either on civilian attire or as a veterans association badge. Two piece, with some damage to wreath to the blue enamel to front, it is maker stamped to the button-hole fitting to "J R GAUNT & SON LONDON". Size 25mm by 20mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass and enamel button-hole badge worn by members of the Horse or HeavyTransport New Zealand Garrison Artillery (H.T.N.Z.G.A), either on civilian attire or as a veterans association badge. Single piece, with brooch fitting to back. Maker impressed to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 25mm by 20mm.
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- Above Right: An image of a Mr Leich, dated 1929-1930, and wearing a button-hole badge to the NZ Garrison Artillery. Sadly I have no further details on him (Swainson/Woods Collection, Puke Ariki and District Libraries SW1923-1930.04815).
- Above: A large, while metal 1902 Pat Artillery Volunteer Button. Note the larger kings crown (B Jones collection).
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- Above: A large, while metal 1902 Pat Artillery Volunteer Button. Note the smaller kings crown, and the button looks plated (B Jones collection).
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- Above: A small size, while metal 1902 Pat Artillery Volunteer Button (B Jones collection).
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- Above: A white metal, 1902 Pat 18mm Artillery Volunteer Ball button. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt & Son London (E11 Co)?" (B Jones collection).
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- Other Makers of the 1902 Patt White Metal Kings Crown Volunteer Button (Brentt Jones collection):
- 16mm "Firmin & Sons London", 16.6mm "J R Gaunt London", 17mm "ENC. J.R.Gaunt London", 17mm "Hobson & Sons London", 23mm "Hobson & Sons Lexington London", 23.7mm "Wm Anderson & Sons (DIN?)".
- 16mm "Firmin & Sons London", 16.6mm "J R Gaunt London", 17mm "ENC. J.R.Gaunt London", 17mm "Hobson & Sons London", 23mm "Hobson & Sons Lexington London", 23.7mm "Wm Anderson & Sons (DIN?)".
- Above Left: A 25mm gilt brass 1902 Patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button. Brass backed and with a fixed shank. Maker marked to "J SAMUEL, LONDON".
- Above Right: A 25mm gilt brass 1902 Patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button. Brass backed and with a fixed shank. No maker mark. |
- Above Left: A 23mm gilt brass 1902 Patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button. Brass backed and with a fixed shank. Maker marked to "THE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY".
- Above Right: A 24mm gilt brass 1902 Patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button. Brass backed and with a intergrated basket shank. Maker marked "HOBSON & SONS, LEXINGTON ST, LONDON". |
- Above Left: A 23mm gilt brass 1902 Patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button. Brass backed and with a flexible shank. Maker marked to "SMITH & WRIGHT LIMITED, BIRMINGHAM".
- Above Right: A 23.5mm gilt brass 1902 Patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button. Brass backed and with a fixed shank. Maker marked "HOBSON & SONS, LEXINGTON ST, LONDON". |
- Above Left: A 17mm gilt brass 1902 Patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button. Brass backed and with a fixed shank. Maker marked to "SUPER QUALITY".
- Above Right: A 17mm gilt brass 1902 Patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button. Brass backed and with a flexible shank. Maker marked "J TIPTAFT & SONS, BHAM". |
- Above Left: A 17mm gilt brass 1902 Patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button. Brass backed and with a fixed shank. No maker mark.
- Above Right: A 16mm gilt brass 1902 Patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button. Brass backed and with a flexible shank. Maker marked "SMITH & WRIGHT LTD, BHAM". |
- Above: A set of 3 x 17mm gilt brass 1902 Patt Volunteer Artillery Tunic button mounted on a gilt brass brooch. All three are Brass backed but have no maker mark.
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- Above: A domed, British Ball button in 18mm brass. Kings crown, it has a fixed shank to back and maker marked to "J R GAUNT & SON Ld, LONDON".
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- Above: A British gilt brass, Ball button in 17mm diameter. Kings crown, it has a fixed shank to back and maker marked to "E STILLWELL & SON".
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- Above: A two piece, British gilt brass, Ball button in 16mm diameter. Kings crown, it has a fixed shank to back and no maker mark.
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The above are plain Ball buttons used on military fashion, such as mess jackets
- Above Left: A 13mm, fixed shank Ball button. No maker mark. - Above Middle: A 10mm, fixed shank Ball button. No maker mark. - Above Right: A 10mm, fixed shank Ball button. Different shape and no maker mark. |
- Other Makers of the 1902 Patt Brass Kings Crown Volunteer Ball Buttons
- 20mm "C Pitt & Co Ltd, London", 19mm No Maker.
Brentt Jones collection:
- 16.6mm "Firmin & Sons Ld London", 17mm "Hawkes & Co Piccadilly", 17mm No Mark (gilt),19mm "W Dowler & Co Birm"
- 20mm "C Pitt & Co Ltd, London", 19mm No Maker.
Brentt Jones collection:
- 16.6mm "Firmin & Sons Ld London", 17mm "Hawkes & Co Piccadilly", 17mm No Mark (gilt),19mm "W Dowler & Co Birm"
The following is a selection of New Zealand Artillery (N.Z.A) shoulder titles. Rule of thumb has always been that if a New Zealand title is straight, it Volunteer (pre-1911), and if its curved its after 1911. Reality is, is that these titles were used for a long period, and until stocks were depleted or "washed out" of Army Stores.
There are examples of Officers WW2 period Home Service tunics with straight NZA titles still being used/attached on Shoulder boards.
There are examples of Officers WW2 period Home Service tunics with straight NZA titles still being used/attached on Shoulder boards.
- Above: A matching pair of Brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Artillery. 13mm by 41mm, with two D shaped copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: Three different N.Z.A titles, with top being hand-cut, middle being cast, and bottom, again hand-cut in Brass. Size of top title is 14mm by 36mm, middle 13mm by 41mm, and bottom 3mm thick, by 16mm by 40mm. All have two copper looped lugs attached to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A study in size.
- Top: A 13mm by 41mm brass shoulder title to the N.Z.A. 2 copper D shaped lugs, no maker mark. - Middle: A 13mm by 35mm brass shoulder title to the N.Z.A. 2 copper D shaped lugs, no maker mark. - Base: A 13mm by 29mm brass shoulder title to the N.Z.A. 2 copper D shaped lugs, no maker mark. |
- Above: A matching pair of tiny, mess dress, Officers brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Artillery. Just 8mm by 27mm, they have two small copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
- Above: Similar, but thinner and finer detail of a tiny, mess dress, Officers brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Artillery. Just 8mm by 26mm, it has two small tangs or blades to back. No maker mark.
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- Opposite: A single piece, hand cut brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Field Artillery. Possibly Volunteer, as its straight, and would have been worn with a letter above (all NZFA batteries were referenced with a A to H post 1902). Two looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
The Snider Saw-Back Bayonet
With the draw-down of British Troops from New Zealand in 1868 the NZ Government sort to arm its Armed Constabulary and later, the Volunteer Militia.
The Snider long rifle had been used by some of the British Troops, and in 1869, 500 Hays Pattern Medium rifle (purchased by NZ in 1865) were returned to NZ after undergoing conversion from muzzle loading to breach loading, under the Snider patented system.
Both the long and medium version of the Snider Rifle were used in New Zealand, but were also found to be too long to use in the rugged bush conditions of NZ.
Short Cavalry versions were also sort, and with these were ordered the first of the Snider saw back Bayonets.
Found to be a good blade, the teeth to the back of the Bayonet were found wanting as a saw and the Bayonet given to NZ Artillery Volunteer formations.
The Snider long rifle had been used by some of the British Troops, and in 1869, 500 Hays Pattern Medium rifle (purchased by NZ in 1865) were returned to NZ after undergoing conversion from muzzle loading to breach loading, under the Snider patented system.
Both the long and medium version of the Snider Rifle were used in New Zealand, but were also found to be too long to use in the rugged bush conditions of NZ.
Short Cavalry versions were also sort, and with these were ordered the first of the Snider saw back Bayonets.
Found to be a good blade, the teeth to the back of the Bayonet were found wanting as a saw and the Bayonet given to NZ Artillery Volunteer formations.
- Top: A 1st type, 1871 patt Snider saw-back Bayonet, with 460mm (18 inch) blade and its scabbard to be used with the Artillery Carbine and short Rifle. Very faint rack number number to crosspiece, which is unreadable.
- Bottom: A 2nd type, 1875 patt Snider saw-back Bayonet, with 515mm (20 inch) blade and its scabbard to be used with the Artillery Carbine and short Rifle. With "209" as a rack number number to crosspiece.
- Bottom: A 2nd type, 1875 patt Snider saw-back Bayonet, with 515mm (20 inch) blade and its scabbard to be used with the Artillery Carbine and short Rifle. With "209" as a rack number number to crosspiece.
- Above: The reverse of the 1st & 2nd type Snider saw-back Bayonets, also showing the reverses of their scabbards. Note the leaf spring to pommel, which is on opposing sides to either types.
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- Above Left & Right: A close-up of the blade markings for the 1st Type, 1871 patt Snider saw-back Bayonet. Note to left the "sold out of service" mark (two broadarrows meeting point to point), crown and inspection mark and number. Right has the Imperial German makers mark of Weyersberg, Solingen.
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- Above Left & Right: A close-up of the blade markings for the 2nd Type, 1875 patt Snider saw-back Bayonet. Note to left the broadarrow mark, crown and inspection mark and number. Right has the date of "9/81" for Sept 1881, which is when the bayonet was converted for the Snider rifle.
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Staff Instructor or Inspector from Central School of Instruction - Wellington
- Opposite: A single piece, white metal Helmet Plate worn by either staff instructors or inspectors from the Central School of Instruction, based in Wellington.
Oldham in his book lists only British Helmet Plates, similar to the opposite, but with no "NZ" to base.
In Barry O'Sullivan's "New Zealand Dress Regulations 1852 - 1909, Militia, Volunteer, Constabulary and Permanent Forces" book, on page 419, he shows this helmet plate being worn on a white cork helmet, with a purple backing cloth and a purple wool puggaree around the center of the hat. It resides in the North Otago Muesum collection.
Likely this is a cut-down New Zealand Volunteer Artillery Helmet plate, which has had the base of field gun and lower banner removed. Oldham has numbered it 3/1.
(image taken from the internet).
Oldham in his book lists only British Helmet Plates, similar to the opposite, but with no "NZ" to base.
In Barry O'Sullivan's "New Zealand Dress Regulations 1852 - 1909, Militia, Volunteer, Constabulary and Permanent Forces" book, on page 419, he shows this helmet plate being worn on a white cork helmet, with a purple backing cloth and a purple wool puggaree around the center of the hat. It resides in the North Otago Muesum collection.
Likely this is a cut-down New Zealand Volunteer Artillery Helmet plate, which has had the base of field gun and lower banner removed. Oldham has numbered it 3/1.
(image taken from the internet).
A New Zealand Volunteer Side-Hat
- Above and Opposite: A New Zealand Volunteers side-hat, dating from post 1895 to 1911. The gilt brass buttons to front are the small, 1882 Patt NZV type. Hat is made from heave navy blue coloured wool, and piped with a double red cord. The gilt brass "NZ" with Bugle horn was worn as generic insignia by New Zealand Volunteers at the time. This composition of colours and insignia could have been worn by either a Rifle Volunteer or Mounted Rifle Volunteer unit. There are no markings inside.
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- Above: An image of a Major, name unknown in a circa 1900 unifom, and possibly Mounted Rifle Volunteers from its colour. Its dated circa 1930, which is to late. Note the bullion crown and "NZ" to shoulder board, and the gilt brass "N" "bugle badge" and "Z" to his peaked Cap. He has similar bugle Collars to his tunic (Te Papa B.026585).
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- Above: An image of a veteran Sergeant Major, you can just seet the crown and 4 rank chevrons to his left arm. No name and sadly described as a "Ship's captain", dated in the 1890s, in Oamaru, by R. Mahan & Co. Note the earlier style peaked cap with "N" and "Z" to front. He also has a medal ribbon to his left chest (Te Papa O.042698).
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Cloth Volunteer Badges
The New Zealand Volunteers wore a mixture of both metal and cloth insignia, and this was down to taste and fashion of the particular unit. Much was based on what the British Army wore at the time, but there are a few New Zealand variations.
Unlike their metal counterparts, they have not survived as well to today, with wear, Moth and oxidation taking their toll.
Unlike their metal counterparts, they have not survived as well to today, with wear, Moth and oxidation taking their toll.
Title, Trade, Rank & Unit.
- Above: A cloth and Sliver Bullion thread "NZ", worn either has a shoulder title or on a Officers Forage Cap, above a Bugle badge. Not maker marked to back. Size 23mm by 40mm.
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- Above : A cloth and Silver Bullion thread Collar badge of of bugle strung a ribbon with a bow to top. Left when worn, with no maker marked to back. Size 40mm by 43mm.
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- Above : A variation of cloth and Silver Bullion thread Collar badge of of bugle strung a ribbon with a bow to top. Left when worn, with no maker marked to back. Size 37mm by 40mm.
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- Above: A Volunteer era khaki cloth and Silver Bullion thread bugle Collar badge (image from the internet).
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- Above: The same collar badge, with the maker label for "MILITARY AND NAVAL, P ROBERT, PALMERSTON N., N.Z, BADGE MANUFACTURER" (image from the internet).
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- Above: A matching pair of Bullion thread and cloth Collar badges to the Royal New Zealand Artillery (R.N.Z.A).
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- Opposite: A pair of non-matching cloth and gilt Bullion thread, Artillery Collar, on black cloth background. No maker mark, and size 62mm by 33mm roughly.
- Above: A single gilt Bullion thread, 9 flame Engineers Cap or Collar badge on pink paper backing. No maker mark, and size 51mm by 26mm roughly. |
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- Above & Opposite: Between 1856 and 1883, some New Zealand Officers wore a system of rank on their Collar. It used a system of lace, crowns and stars (or pips). For example a single Crown on either side represented a Lieutenant, while Crown and Star signified a Captain. All the above have no maker mark to back with the Crown being 26mm (missing crown tips) by 28mm and 13mm deep while the Stars are 28mm by 28mm (point to point).
- Above: A Scarlet backed Queen Victoria Sleeve crown for Regimental Sergeant-Major. Silver bullion thread. No maker mark to back. Size roughly 41mm by 59mm.
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- Above: A Black or Dark Blue backed Queen Victoria Sleeve crown for Regimental Sergeant-Major. Khaki thread, with no maker mark to back. Size roughly 48mm by 58mm.
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- Above: A khaki backed Queen Victoria Sleeve crown for Regimental Sergeant-Major. Gilt bullion thread. No maker mark to back. Size roughly 40mm by 58mm (tip of crown missing).
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- Above: A Kings crown, scarlet backed Sleeve crown for Regimental Sergeant-Major. Silver bullion thread, with no maker mark to back. Size roughly 46mm by 50mm.
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- Above: A Kings crown, Black or Dark Blue backed Sleeve crown for Regimental Sergeant-Major. Gilt bullion thread, with maker mark to back. Size roughly 49mm by 60mm.
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- Above: The back of the same crown opposite, showing the maker mark of "P. ROBERT Manufacturer Palmerston N".
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Some unknowns
- Above: A gilt and bullion Crown, unkown at this stage, with size 40mm by 46mm.
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- Above & Opposite: Possibly Cap crowns of a much later date. No maker marks and size of above 44mm by 50mm, while opposite is 43mm by 38mm.
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- Above Left and Right: A matching pair of dress shoulder boards with the rank of Lieutenant in the New Zealand Volunteer Force. Thick bullion cord in gold tone, twisted. Two cloth and bullion thread Officers pips have been sewn to top. Both have a red backing (which is mothed), and shows the brass reinforcement strip underneath. One end on each has a threaded bolt (to attached to the tunic), while at the other end is a 17mm button to the "NEW ZEALAND VOLUNTEERS". No maker mark to either. Size 40mm by 150mm.
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- Above Left & Right: Top, is a single Officers shoulder board with no rank pips attached (its had them in the past, as there are threads showing where a pip was sewn on). Voilet cloth backing (which is mothed and grubby), there is no maker marks. Size 35mm by 150mm.
Bottom is a single dress shoulder board to the rank of Captain in the New Zealand Volunteer Force. Thick gold coloured tress, with three heavy bullion rank pips sewn to top. The board is back in red cloth and has a single 16mm button, modified with thread and tubular shank to fit, with the words "NEW ZEALAND VOLUNTEERS". Maker mark to button to back of "Hallenstein Brothers". Size 40mm by 150mm.
Bottom is a single dress shoulder board to the rank of Captain in the New Zealand Volunteer Force. Thick gold coloured tress, with three heavy bullion rank pips sewn to top. The board is back in red cloth and has a single 16mm button, modified with thread and tubular shank to fit, with the words "NEW ZEALAND VOLUNTEERS". Maker mark to button to back of "Hallenstein Brothers". Size 40mm by 150mm.
- Opposite: A pair of different Volunteer Officer rank pips or stars. The left is in Silver Bullion thread, while the right is in Gold Bullion thread. Both have either cloth or paper backing, with no maker marks. Size of both are 32mm by 32mm (point to point).
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- Above & Above Right: A Gunnery Sleeve badge worn by senior NCO's of the New Zealand Artillery Volunteers. Embroidered thread on a khaki wool background. To edges are old threads, showing that its been removed from a uniform. To back, up-side-down is the paper label of "P ROBERT Manufacturer, Palmerston North". Size 35mm by 68mm (roughly, there is a fair bit of fraying to edges).
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- Above & Above Right: A set of named Volunteer period Sergeants Stripes or Chevrons. Made in New Zealand, with the stamp of "P ROBERT, PALMERSTON N.", with the "N", abbreviated for North.
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- Opposite: A selection of Sergeants (3 stripes), Corporals (2 stripes) and Lance Corporals (1 stripe) rank chevrons. Issue with these is such a wide variety were worn, and unless maker marked, you can't really say whether they are NZ and volunteer. But these fit, are similar. None are maker marked. Note the matching Corporals with crossed "signals" flags attached in bullion.
- Above: 4 stripes were worn on the lower sleeve by Regimental Quartermasters. The set on the left has been made by sewing two Corporals stripe sets together. None are maker marked. |
- Above: A single shoulder title, cut from a tunic, with remnants of the shoulder/sleeve cloth still attached. It has a straight N.Z.A or New Zealand Artillery Shoulder title attached in brass via two lugs. I would think that a straight N.Z.R or New Zealand Rifles, would have been appropriate. But the title looks to have been on there for a while. Found as is, left as is. Strap is 130mm by 60mm at its widest point.
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- Above: A cloth and embrodered shoulder strap with "MR" or Mounted Rifles in white letters, and piped in white to edge. A medium size "NEW ZEALAND VOLUNTEERS" button is attached to top (image from the internet).
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- Above: A Volunteer Farriers Sleeve trade patch. Silver bullion thread on a scarlet background. No maker mark to back. Size 63mm by 60mm.
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- Above: A rather worn but superb Buglers sleeve trade badge in silver bullion thread on a scarlet background. Much mothing to back material, with cotton and paper backing. No maker mark and size 40mm by 60mm (roughly).
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Proficiency Badges.
To encourage efficiency within the Volunteer Force, awards were made of a Proficiency badges (along with money) to individual members of a unit who obtained and maintained a set level of military and technical skill which was pertinent to their unit's role.
These were worn with pride on the recipient's left sleeve, below the elbow, on their tunic.
These were worn with pride on the recipient's left sleeve, below the elbow, on their tunic.
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- Above: A "G" for Gunnery proficiency in two types "Gold" for "Distinguished" and Red thread for "Proficient". Awarded to NZAV and NZGAV NCO's and men, as follows:
Awarding of the "Red" worsted "G" Gunnery badge was for 1 year, with a personal payment of 1 Pound to the Volunteer. After 3 consecutive awardings of the "Red" worsted "G" Gunnery badge, the "Gold" "Distinguished" badge was awarded, along with a further personal payment of 1 pound.
For a further 3 years of service, the Volunteer holding the "Gold" "Distinguished" badge would be awarded a further personal payment of 1 pound.
The "Red" badge was awarded yearly, while the "Gold" badge, once obtained, was held for the service life of Volunteer (1906 NZ Dress Regulations).
- Above Left: A "G" for Gunnery in "Red" worsted on a black background Proficiency badge. To back is a paper backing, with a paper label marked "P. ROBERT, Palmerston North" (image from the internet).
- Above Right: A "G" for Gunnery in "Gold" bullion thread on a black background Proficiency badge. To back is a paper backing, with a paper label marked "P. ROBERT, Manufacturer Palmerston North". Size 50mm by 60mm.
Awarding of the "Red" worsted "G" Gunnery badge was for 1 year, with a personal payment of 1 Pound to the Volunteer. After 3 consecutive awardings of the "Red" worsted "G" Gunnery badge, the "Gold" "Distinguished" badge was awarded, along with a further personal payment of 1 pound.
For a further 3 years of service, the Volunteer holding the "Gold" "Distinguished" badge would be awarded a further personal payment of 1 pound.
The "Red" badge was awarded yearly, while the "Gold" badge, once obtained, was held for the service life of Volunteer (1906 NZ Dress Regulations).
- Above Left: A "G" for Gunnery in "Red" worsted on a black background Proficiency badge. To back is a paper backing, with a paper label marked "P. ROBERT, Palmerston North" (image from the internet).
- Above Right: A "G" for Gunnery in "Gold" bullion thread on a black background Proficiency badge. To back is a paper backing, with a paper label marked "P. ROBERT, Manufacturer Palmerston North". Size 50mm by 60mm.
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- Above: Two versions of the "L" for Gun-Laying Proficiency badge in "Red" worsted on a black background for both NZVA and NZGAV NCO's and men.
- Above Left: A old style (1903 to 1906) English "L" above a wreath in "Red" worsted on a black background. To back is a paper backing, with a paper label marked "P. ROBERT, Manufacturer MILITARY & NAVAL ORNAMENTS. Palmerston North" (image from the internet).
- Above Right: A (1906 to 1910) English "L" above a wreath in "Red" worsted on a black background. To back is a paper backing, with a paper label marked "P. ROBERT Palmerston N." (image from the internet).
They were awarded the same as the above "G" for Gunnery.
- Above Left: A old style (1903 to 1906) English "L" above a wreath in "Red" worsted on a black background. To back is a paper backing, with a paper label marked "P. ROBERT, Manufacturer MILITARY & NAVAL ORNAMENTS. Palmerston North" (image from the internet).
- Above Right: A (1906 to 1910) English "L" above a wreath in "Red" worsted on a black background. To back is a paper backing, with a paper label marked "P. ROBERT Palmerston N." (image from the internet).
They were awarded the same as the above "G" for Gunnery.
- Above: A "Gold" "Distinguished" Gun-layer Proficiency Badge version in bullion thread on a black background (image from the internet).
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- Above: A 1st Class Artilleries or Companies badge in Red worsted on a black background.
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(continued) To back is a paper backing, with a paper label marked "P ROBERT., Embrodierer Palmerston North". Size 45mm by 58mm.
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- Opposite: A trade proficency sleeve badge for a "M", Maxim Gunner. Introduced in 1907 with the update to the Dess Regulations of that year, it is a uniquely New Zealand badge (image from the internet).
Others:
Rang-finding - "R" over wreath - "Red" worsted on black, while "Distinguished" was "Gold" on black.
Driving - Crossed whips & spur - "Red" worsted on black, while "Distinguished" was "Gold" on black.
Submarine Mining - Torpedo - "Red" worsted on black, while "Distinguished" was "Gold" on black.
Testing - Outline of Testing Key - "Red" worsted on black, while "Distinguished" was "Gold" on black.
Electric Lighting - Outline of Electric Globe - "Red" worsted on black, while "Distinguished" was "Gold" on black.
Bridging Sections - Outline of Trestle - "Red" worsted on black, while "Distinguished" was "Gold" on black.
Ambulance - "Red" cross in worsted, surrounded by circle in Yellow, while "Distinguished" was red cross in silk, surrounded by circle in gold
Telegraph - Outline of Telegraph Pole - "Red" worsted on black, while "Distinguished" was "Gold" on black.
Taken from the 1906 Dress Regulations. Note not all of these have been seen, and though covered in the dress regulations, may not have been awarded or worn. All were awarded like "G" for Gunnery.
Others:
Rang-finding - "R" over wreath - "Red" worsted on black, while "Distinguished" was "Gold" on black.
Driving - Crossed whips & spur - "Red" worsted on black, while "Distinguished" was "Gold" on black.
Submarine Mining - Torpedo - "Red" worsted on black, while "Distinguished" was "Gold" on black.
Testing - Outline of Testing Key - "Red" worsted on black, while "Distinguished" was "Gold" on black.
Electric Lighting - Outline of Electric Globe - "Red" worsted on black, while "Distinguished" was "Gold" on black.
Bridging Sections - Outline of Trestle - "Red" worsted on black, while "Distinguished" was "Gold" on black.
Ambulance - "Red" cross in worsted, surrounded by circle in Yellow, while "Distinguished" was red cross in silk, surrounded by circle in gold
Telegraph - Outline of Telegraph Pole - "Red" worsted on black, while "Distinguished" was "Gold" on black.
Taken from the 1906 Dress Regulations. Note not all of these have been seen, and though covered in the dress regulations, may not have been awarded or worn. All were awarded like "G" for Gunnery.
- Above: Field Engineering - Crossed Picks & Shovel - "Red" worsted on black (as above), while "Distinguished" was "Gold" on black (image from the internet).
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- Above: A Volunteer 1st Class Company in Heavy Guns. Red thread on a black background. Issued to NZ Garrison and Naval Artillery Volunteers.
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(continued) To back is a paper label marked " P. ROBERT, Manufacturer MILITARY & NAVAL ORNAMENTS, Palmerston North." (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Opposite: A sample held in Archive NZ of a cloth and embroidered Signal Volunteers single flag proficiency sleeve badge.
General Order (G.O.) 184 in 1909 stated the following:
- 3rd Class rating - awarded a sleeve badge (single flag), certificate and personnel payment of 1 pound.
- 2nd Class rating - awarded a badge (crossed flag in worsted), certificate and personnel payment of 1 pound.
- 1st Class rating - awarded a badge (crossed flags in gold) and personnel payment of 1 pound with an extra 1 pound if proficient for three consecutive years.
(Archive NZ).
General Order (G.O.) 184 in 1909 stated the following:
- 3rd Class rating - awarded a sleeve badge (single flag), certificate and personnel payment of 1 pound.
- 2nd Class rating - awarded a badge (crossed flag in worsted), certificate and personnel payment of 1 pound.
- 1st Class rating - awarded a badge (crossed flags in gold) and personnel payment of 1 pound with an extra 1 pound if proficient for three consecutive years.
(Archive NZ).
- Above: A pair of crossed flags in gold bullion and coloured thread. White cotton backing, but no maker mark. Size 73mm by 55mm (roughly).
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- Above: A similar pair of crossed flags in gold bullion thread and coloured thread. Note the additions of ends to the poles and ropes on the flags. Beige cotton backing, but no maker mark. Size 71mm by 58mm (roughly).
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- Opposite Left: A 3 year Efficency Star in "Red" worsted. A similar badge was awarded after 9 years in "Gold". Note the maker mark to back on paper label to "P. ROBERT. Embrodierer Palmerston North" (image from the internet).
- Opposite Right: A 3 year Efficency as Garrison Artillery in "Red" worsted. Note the maker mark to back on paper label to "P. ROBERT. Manufact'er Palmerston N." (image from the internet). |
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- Above: Two Proficiency sleeve Cannons worn by units of the New Zealand Garrison Artillery Volunteers circa 1898. Both have no maker mark to back. Size 25mm by 80mm roughly.
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- Above: A School Instruction Badge - described as "PS" in "Gold".
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(continued) To back is a paper label to "P. ROBERT Badge Manufacturer, PALMERSTON NORTH".
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The marksman's badge was awarded to encourage shooting skills within the Volunteers and existed from 1866.
Initially this was a single rifle, worn on the lower sleeve.
Separate 4 pointed Stars (in bullion) were then introduced in 1895 (two Stars) to be worn above the badge, with three Stars above for best shot in the company.
Sadly these were NOT defined well, and were open to interpretation, and can be confused with "Service or Efficiency Stars" which were worn in the same location (see the Dargaville Rifle Volunteers tunic below).
In the 1906 Dress Regulations (and examples - see below):
Marksmen - Single Rifle - "Red" worsted on black, while "Distinguished" (best in Ballation) was "Gold" on black.
A payment of 1 pound personal payment came with the awarding of the badge, and needed to be earned each year. There was NO 3 year efficiency badge awarded like the above.
Certainly around the 1900's the double or "crossed rifles" gained popularity and was worn by some New Zealand Volunteers in place of the single rifle.
Initially this was a single rifle, worn on the lower sleeve.
Separate 4 pointed Stars (in bullion) were then introduced in 1895 (two Stars) to be worn above the badge, with three Stars above for best shot in the company.
Sadly these were NOT defined well, and were open to interpretation, and can be confused with "Service or Efficiency Stars" which were worn in the same location (see the Dargaville Rifle Volunteers tunic below).
In the 1906 Dress Regulations (and examples - see below):
Marksmen - Single Rifle - "Red" worsted on black, while "Distinguished" (best in Ballation) was "Gold" on black.
A payment of 1 pound personal payment came with the awarding of the badge, and needed to be earned each year. There was NO 3 year efficiency badge awarded like the above.
Certainly around the 1900's the double or "crossed rifles" gained popularity and was worn by some New Zealand Volunteers in place of the single rifle.
- Above: A single rifle bullion on scarlet marksman's sleeve badges. Maker label to back
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- (continued) to "P. ROBERT, Manufacturer, Palmerston North". Size roughly 33mm by 82mm.
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- Above: A marksman's sleeve badges in scarlet cloth and Gilt Bullion thread. No maker mark. Size roughly 25mm by 80mm.
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- Above: A single rifle marksman's sleeve badges in "Red" worsted on black cloth as mentioned in the 1906 Dress Regulations. Part maker label to back to "P ROBERT, Embroiderer, Palmerston North". Size roughly 31mm by 90mm.
- Opposite: A complicated little badge. The 4 pointed bullion Star badge appears to have had multi uses
- Worn as a Marksman's best shot, either two or three, above a single rifle
- Show "efficient" service. Silver awarded for 3 "efficient" years service (a Gold star was awarded for 9 years service - see the Dargaville Rifle Volunteers tunic below).
Both have red backing, with Silver Bullion thread. No maker mark. Size 22mm (point to point - roughly).
- Worn as a Marksman's best shot, either two or three, above a single rifle
- Show "efficient" service. Silver awarded for 3 "efficient" years service (a Gold star was awarded for 9 years service - see the Dargaville Rifle Volunteers tunic below).
Both have red backing, with Silver Bullion thread. No maker mark. Size 22mm (point to point - roughly).
- Above: A crossed rifles, marksman's sleeve badges in scarlet cloth and Gilt Bullion thread. No maker mark to back, and size roughly 53mm by 65mm.
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- Above: A crossed rifles, marksman's sleeve badges in black cloth and Gilt Bullion thread. No maker mark to back, and size roughly 63mm by 70mm.
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- Above: A uniquely New Zealand marksman's sleeve badge in gold bullion thread on a black background. Note the sequin rifle sling. Maker marked to back on a paper label to "P. ROBERT, Badge Manufacturer, Palmerston N." (image from the internet).
Belts and Belt Buckles.
- Above: A universal pattern British belt center in White Metal, introduced in England in 1871, this was adopted by some New Zealand units. Missing the other side, with wreath.
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- Above: A universal pattern British belt center in brass, with Kings Crown (so post 1902), this again was adopted by some New Zealand units. Motto: Dieu Et Mon Droit (God and my right).
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- Above: A white Buff leather belt with Mk II Bayonet frog attached. To center is a General pattern Brass, QVC crown buckle. Marked to inside are various service numbers (burnt in) and a large "TM".
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- Above: A rear picture of the same belt, showing the front of the Mk II Bayonet frog.
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- Above: A close-up of the QVC crowned buckle.
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- Above: Stamped to inside is the maker mark of "A Ross & Co, C & M (C & M=Contractor & Manufacturer), 1852".
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- Opposite & Below: A universal patterned Snake Buckle and Belt. Adopted by New Zealand Volunteer units around 1895. This is the 1905 to 1930 pattern, with just one adjustable side, while the other is fixed. Maker marked to "L Wiggins, Maker, Wellington".
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Permanent Forces.
Permanent Artillery
The following is the breakdown of the permanent Artillery, who were paid, full time, by the New Zealand Government for the year 1893
- Auckland - 1 Major, 1 Sergt-Major, 1 Sergeant, 1 Corporal, 3 Artifcers, 8 1st Class Gunners, 3 2nd Class Gunners, 11 3rd Class Gunners - Total 29
- Wellington - 1 Major, 1 Lieutenant, 2 Sergeant, 1 Bombadier, 3 Artifcers, 9 1st Class Gunners, 4 2nd Class Gunners, 35 3rd Class Gunners - Total 56
- Lyttelton - 1 Major, 1 Sergt-Major, 1 Sergeant, 1 Bombadier, 3 Artifcers, 3 1st Class Gunners, 3 2nd Class Gunners, 8 3rd Class Gunners - Total 21
- Dunedin - 1 Captain, 1 Sergt-Major, 1 Sergeant, 1 Corporal, 3 Artifcers, 5 1st Class Gunners, 3 2nd Class Gunners, 12 3rd Class Gunners - Total 27
Total Force - 133 (18 of these were recruits enlisted since 1st Oct 1893)
Noted by Lieut-Colonel F.J. Fox (Commandant, New Zealand Forces - 1893)
"With corps so highly trained and so generally efficient as this one is it is difficult to believe that there is no prescribed uniform. The men buy their own uniform, and have been allowed to go to different tailors for it. The result, of course, has been that there are numbers of different cloths of different hues amongst the tunics and frocks, and also there is considerable diversity in the pattern in which these articles are made up. There has been some endeavor made to follow the uniform of the Royal Artillery, New Zealand badges being worn."
The following is the breakdown of the permanent Artillery, who were paid, full time, by the New Zealand Government for the year 1893
- Auckland - 1 Major, 1 Sergt-Major, 1 Sergeant, 1 Corporal, 3 Artifcers, 8 1st Class Gunners, 3 2nd Class Gunners, 11 3rd Class Gunners - Total 29
- Wellington - 1 Major, 1 Lieutenant, 2 Sergeant, 1 Bombadier, 3 Artifcers, 9 1st Class Gunners, 4 2nd Class Gunners, 35 3rd Class Gunners - Total 56
- Lyttelton - 1 Major, 1 Sergt-Major, 1 Sergeant, 1 Bombadier, 3 Artifcers, 3 1st Class Gunners, 3 2nd Class Gunners, 8 3rd Class Gunners - Total 21
- Dunedin - 1 Captain, 1 Sergt-Major, 1 Sergeant, 1 Corporal, 3 Artifcers, 5 1st Class Gunners, 3 2nd Class Gunners, 12 3rd Class Gunners - Total 27
Total Force - 133 (18 of these were recruits enlisted since 1st Oct 1893)
Noted by Lieut-Colonel F.J. Fox (Commandant, New Zealand Forces - 1893)
"With corps so highly trained and so generally efficient as this one is it is difficult to believe that there is no prescribed uniform. The men buy their own uniform, and have been allowed to go to different tailors for it. The result, of course, has been that there are numbers of different cloths of different hues amongst the tunics and frocks, and also there is considerable diversity in the pattern in which these articles are made up. There has been some endeavor made to follow the uniform of the Royal Artillery, New Zealand badges being worn."
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- Above: A straight brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Regular Force, which were part of the Permanent Force set up by the New Zealand Government in the early 1890's to maintain instructional standards and permanent defence along New Zealand Coastline. In 1902 two units of what became eventually the Regular Force, formed the Royal New Zealand Artillery and the Royal New Zealand Engineers.
- Opposite: A gilt brass helmet plate to the pre - 1901 New Zealand Permanent Artillery Force within the Permanent Military (New Zealand Regular Force). With QV crown, it has three copper looped lugs to back, and is 100mm by 80.5mm in size (HP is curved). |
Submarine-Mining Corps (Torpedo Corps)
The following is the breakdown of the permanent Torpedo Corps, who were paid, full time, by the New Zealand Government for the year 1893
- Auckland - 1 Captain, 1 Petty Officer, 1 Second Corporal, 6 Artifcers & 1st Class Tordpedoman, 4 2nd Class, 3 3rd Class - Total 16
- Wellington - 1 Captain, 1 Petty Officer, 1 Engineer, 1 Corporal, 2 Second Corporal, 4 Artifcers & 1st Class Tordpedoman , 4 2nd Class Gunners, 19 3rd Class Gunners - Total 33
- Lyttelton - 1 Petty Officer, 2 Artifcers & 1st Class Tordpedoman, 3 3rd Class Gunners - Total 6
- Dunedin - 1 Petty Officer, 1 Second Corporal, 5 Artifcers & 1st Class Tordpedoman, 1 2nd Class Gunners - Total 8
Total Force - 63
Noted by Lieut-Colonel F.J. Fox (Commandant, New Zealand Forces - 1893)
"The men are armed with Snider artillery carbines and sword-bayonets, with brown-leather belts and slings. The uniform of the corps is peaked cap, pea-jacket, and trousers. There is no pretension to smartness in this dress, nor is any drill really attempted. The men of the corps are so much employed on board the boats, or as engineers or artificers, that drill is practically out of the question. In the early mornings, when such work ought to be done, the absence of the men who cannot get to their work before 9.30 puts stop to the morning parade. Under these circumstances, as it seems quite impossible to smarten up the appearance of the men, do not consider that it would be advisable to-put them into smart uniform."
The following is the breakdown of the permanent Torpedo Corps, who were paid, full time, by the New Zealand Government for the year 1893
- Auckland - 1 Captain, 1 Petty Officer, 1 Second Corporal, 6 Artifcers & 1st Class Tordpedoman, 4 2nd Class, 3 3rd Class - Total 16
- Wellington - 1 Captain, 1 Petty Officer, 1 Engineer, 1 Corporal, 2 Second Corporal, 4 Artifcers & 1st Class Tordpedoman , 4 2nd Class Gunners, 19 3rd Class Gunners - Total 33
- Lyttelton - 1 Petty Officer, 2 Artifcers & 1st Class Tordpedoman, 3 3rd Class Gunners - Total 6
- Dunedin - 1 Petty Officer, 1 Second Corporal, 5 Artifcers & 1st Class Tordpedoman, 1 2nd Class Gunners - Total 8
Total Force - 63
Noted by Lieut-Colonel F.J. Fox (Commandant, New Zealand Forces - 1893)
"The men are armed with Snider artillery carbines and sword-bayonets, with brown-leather belts and slings. The uniform of the corps is peaked cap, pea-jacket, and trousers. There is no pretension to smartness in this dress, nor is any drill really attempted. The men of the corps are so much employed on board the boats, or as engineers or artificers, that drill is practically out of the question. In the early mornings, when such work ought to be done, the absence of the men who cannot get to their work before 9.30 puts stop to the morning parade. Under these circumstances, as it seems quite impossible to smarten up the appearance of the men, do not consider that it would be advisable to-put them into smart uniform."
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- Opposite & Above: Gilt bullion on black or dark blue material Torpedo's, to be worn on the sleeve as a trade badges. There is no maker mark to back, but reminants of a white paper backing to both. I have yet to see any photographic evidence that these were worn by the Corps, but these badges have been "circulating" in New Zealand for years. Possibly worn to indicate the difference between a 1st Class Torpedoman (2 crossed torpedoes) and a 2nd Class Tordedoman (single tordepo).
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- Above: A hand cut, sheet brass badge to the New Zealand Submarine Miners Corps. Two lugs to back. Also appears in cast brass, but there are some doubts over this version of the badge (image from the internet).
- Opposite: A silver sweethearts or veterans badge to the New Zealand Torpedo Corps (NZTC), with QV Crown above a Torpedo. Brooch fitting to back, in a vertical position, it is maker marked to "HISLOP" to just under the hinge (image from the internet). |
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- Above: A die stamped, gilt brass badge to the New Zealand Torpedo Corps (N.Z.T.C). Two looped lugs to back.
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- Above: A collection of New Zealand Submarine Mining Corps Badges, showing the differences in wear and also letter shapes which have been cut out.
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- Opposite: The above right badge needs to be treated with caution, especially the cast brass version. This picture appeared on a international auction website in 2023 and 2024. The seller used it to auction off the badges individual. I did NOT catch the auction for the NZSM badge, but all the rest of their stock was fake, cast copies from originals.
Likely the red circled NZSM badge in this picture was too (image from the internet).
Likely the red circled NZSM badge in this picture was too (image from the internet).
Specific New Zealand Volunteer units and their Badges.
The below format is loosely based on the 1901 to 1911 formation layout, just as this period lends itself to a structure to show, but dotted throughout is the mention of earlier units. I use again the Military Area or Districts, New Zealand was divided into.
Around 1900, New Zealand was divided into 5 Military Area's, but prior to this there were many smaller Military Area's.
Much of the below detail is taken from "The Regiment Badges of New Zealand - D. A. Corbett - Revised 1980 edition ISBN 0-908596-05-7" - the corner-stone of NZ Badge collecting
The figures of "Strength" have been taken from the Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives or AJHR's. These report's were commissioned by the New Zealand Government and compiled by their Military Inspectors.
Sadly these reports are not consistent, with large gaps, when there is no report at all, or differences in how the numbers are report, so instead of individual units, overall figures are give for each District.
Also the name of each unit was sometimes referred to in a different way, which makes interpretation of the numbers and units mentioned very complicated!
Figures for the majority of reports found, were generally reported for the 31st of March of the year mentioned, but this could be different for some years (example: a very early inspection for the Otago Military District was compiled for the year ending 30th May 1870).
In 1889 and 1891, the Government defined what size a individual Volunteer unit should be, based on location (country vs city) and type (Infantry vs Mounted Rifles or Artillery) and they are shown in brackets as follows "(48)", by the actual figure for that year.
The figures are just to give some idea of the size of these Volunteer units and therefore the quantities of insignia they would have worn.
It goes in some way to explaining why these badges are so rare.
Around 1900, New Zealand was divided into 5 Military Area's, but prior to this there were many smaller Military Area's.
Much of the below detail is taken from "The Regiment Badges of New Zealand - D. A. Corbett - Revised 1980 edition ISBN 0-908596-05-7" - the corner-stone of NZ Badge collecting
The figures of "Strength" have been taken from the Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives or AJHR's. These report's were commissioned by the New Zealand Government and compiled by their Military Inspectors.
Sadly these reports are not consistent, with large gaps, when there is no report at all, or differences in how the numbers are report, so instead of individual units, overall figures are give for each District.
Also the name of each unit was sometimes referred to in a different way, which makes interpretation of the numbers and units mentioned very complicated!
Figures for the majority of reports found, were generally reported for the 31st of March of the year mentioned, but this could be different for some years (example: a very early inspection for the Otago Military District was compiled for the year ending 30th May 1870).
In 1889 and 1891, the Government defined what size a individual Volunteer unit should be, based on location (country vs city) and type (Infantry vs Mounted Rifles or Artillery) and they are shown in brackets as follows "(48)", by the actual figure for that year.
The figures are just to give some idea of the size of these Volunteer units and therefore the quantities of insignia they would have worn.
It goes in some way to explaining why these badges are so rare.
Auckland Military District.
Detachment of Royal New Zealand Artillery
The Royal New Zealand Artillery were established on the 15th of October, 1902, with the prefix "Royal". They formed from the 1st Service Company of the New Zealand Permanent Force (the 2nd Service Company formed the Royal NZ Engineers at the same time).
The unit was based in Wellington and Auckland (no South Island units).
The Royal New Zealand Artillery were established on the 15th of October, 1902, with the prefix "Royal". They formed from the 1st Service Company of the New Zealand Permanent Force (the 2nd Service Company formed the Royal NZ Engineers at the same time).
The unit was based in Wellington and Auckland (no South Island units).
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- Opposite: A gilt brass helmet plate to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Post 1902. With Kings crown, and three copper looped lugs to back, it is 102mm by 87mm (HP is curved).
- Above: A straight cast brass shoulder title to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Two copper wire loops to back, no maker mark (image from the internet).
- Above: A straight bronze shoulder title to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Two copper wire loops to back, no maker mark. Size 15mm by 51mm.
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Detachment of Royal New Zealand Engineers
New Zealand Field Artillery Volunteers
A Battery (Auckland - Accepted 20th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1880 - 100, 1881 - 84, 1882 - 82, 1883 - 60, 1884 - 55, 1885 - 77, 1889 - 77 (53), 1890 - 61, 1891 - 62 (53), 1892 - 52, 1893 - 58, 1894 - 83, 1895 - 79, 1898 - 74, 1899 - 71, 1900 - 82, 1901 - 84, 1902 - 92, 1903 - 87 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - New Zealand Artillery Volunteer helmets and tunics in good order.
O Battery (Auckland - Accepted 30th April 1885 - Disbanded 1891)
Strength: 1885 - 84, 1889 - 61 (53), 1890 - 54, 1891 - 43(53) Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1880 - 100, 1881 - 84, 1882 - 82, 1883 - 60, 1884 - 55, 1885 - 77, 1889 - 77 (53), 1890 - 61, 1891 - 62 (53), 1892 - 52, 1893 - 58, 1894 - 83, 1895 - 79, 1898 - 74, 1899 - 71, 1900 - 82, 1901 - 84, 1902 - 92, 1903 - 87 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - New Zealand Artillery Volunteer helmets and tunics in good order.
O Battery (Auckland - Accepted 30th April 1885 - Disbanded 1891)
Strength: 1885 - 84, 1889 - 61 (53), 1890 - 54, 1891 - 43(53) Officers, NCO and Men.
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- Opposite: A scarce 2 piece, white metal on gilt brass Cap badge to A Battery (Auckland) New Zealand Field Artillery Volunteers. Separate white metal field gun sweated onto a gilt brass backing. Two copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Size 48mm by 64mm.
- Above: A single piece, brass shoulder title to A Battery (Auckland), New Zealand Field Artillery Volunteers. Again, no maker mark to back and two copper looped lugs. |
- Above: A 3/4 image of Gunnery Sergeant Frederick (Fred) Charles Soar of A Battery, New Zealand Field Artillery Volunteers. Fred had a long career with the NZ Defence force, serving in WW1 (2/154 - Main Body), Inter-War as a Major, and WW2 (37165/813081) eventually leaving as a Lt-Colonel. He joined A Battery, NZAV on the 11th of March 1909, and is here with Busby and cord, white belt with a Officers/NCO's buckle center with "NZ REGt ARTILLERY VOLUNTEERS" with a QVC crown above a field gun. He has two flaming grenade collars, a NCO field gun badge in cloth above his Sergeants chevrons and a brass "A" above a straight "NZA" shoulder title to his tunics shoulder straps (Auckland Library Heritage Collections 31-70445).
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- Above: A similar 3/4 image of a member of A Battery, New Zealand Field Artillery Volunteers. This time of Gunner Roy John Leslie . Roy was sadly killed in action in France on the 5th of September 1917. His service number was 2/577. He offers a different view of A Battery's uniform, with his Busby side-on, and showing the Grenade type badge, with plume. His belt has the generic buckle center with Motto: Dieu Et Mon Droit (God and my right), with a Lion above a QVC crown. He has two flaming grenade collars and a brass "A" above a straight "NZA" shoulder title to his tunics shoulder straps. His buttons appear to be 1902 Patt Artillery, with Kings crown over a field gun (Auckland Library Heritage Collections 31-L0704).
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- Above (left & right): A study of uniform. Two images of Alfred Patrick Lynch (with Busby) and his brother, James Michael Lynch (side cap), both gunners in A Battery, New Zealand Field Artillery Volunteers. Alfred displays the units full Parade uniform with Busby, badge with white Horse hair plume, and two flaming grenade collars to tunic. He wears a white cross belt, with generic buckle center and Motto: Dieu Et Mon Droit (God and my right), with a Lion above a QVC crown. He appears to have post 1902 buttons with Kings crown over a field gun. On his shoulder boards is a "A" over "NZA".
His brother James is in the units day to day, walk-out dress, which is much plainer, with a single flaming grenade collar to side hat, and two of the same to his collar. He wears a "snake" type belt buckle on darkened leather belt, and note the buttons, which are small to his tunic. On his sleeve are two badges, top being a "prize" badge with 1st and a wreath, the other I believe is for Gunner (Auckland Library Heritage Collections 31-63235 & 31-63236).
His brother James is in the units day to day, walk-out dress, which is much plainer, with a single flaming grenade collar to side hat, and two of the same to his collar. He wears a "snake" type belt buckle on darkened leather belt, and note the buttons, which are small to his tunic. On his sleeve are two badges, top being a "prize" badge with 1st and a wreath, the other I believe is for Gunner (Auckland Library Heritage Collections 31-63235 & 31-63236).
Auckland Division of New Zealand Garrison Artillery Volunteers
Original company numbering of the Auckland District Garrison Artillery Volunteers were as follows:
No. 1 Company - (Auckland) Auckland Naval Artillery
No. 8 Company - (Ponsonby) Ponsonby Naval Artillery
No. 9 Company - (Devonport) Devonport Coastguard Artillery
These were subsequently renamed to:
No. 1 Company - Auckland Naval Artillery Volunteers (Accepted 20th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1883 - 61, 1884 - 59, 1885 - 100, 1889 - 103 (63), 1890 - 104, 1891 - 90 (63), 1892 - 79, 1893 - 68, 1894 - 90, 1895 - 67, 1898 - 80, 1899 - 104, 1900 - 92, 1901 - 117, 1902 - 122, 1903 - 111 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Naval Artillery Volunteers in good order.
No. 2 Company - Ponsonby Naval Artillery Volunteers (Accepted 22nd April 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 61, 1889 - 91 (63), 1890 - 81, 1891 - 60 (63), 1892 - 65, 1893 - 70, 1894 - 90, 1895 - 78, 1898 - 68, 1899 - 82, 1900 - 82, 1901 - 86, 1902 - 94, 1903 - 81 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Naval Artillery Volunteer uniform in good order.
No. 3 Company - Devonport Coastguard Artillery Volunteers (Also titled in 1884 Devonport Naval Artillery - First accepted 1st Jan 1884, then accepted 7th July 1894)
Strength: 1884 - 48, 1885 - 67, 1894 - 87, 1895 - 83, 1898 - 74, 1899 - 89, 1900 - 68, 1901 - 81, 1902 - 80, 1903 - 81 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above: A gilt brass, 1903 patt 24mm tunic button to the Naval Artillery Volunteers. Worn by some members of the New Zealand Garrision Artillery. Note the letters "N A V" to across center. Fixed shank to back, with the maker mark of "E STILLWELL & SON LONDON".
No. 1 Company - (Auckland) Auckland Naval Artillery
No. 8 Company - (Ponsonby) Ponsonby Naval Artillery
No. 9 Company - (Devonport) Devonport Coastguard Artillery
These were subsequently renamed to:
No. 1 Company - Auckland Naval Artillery Volunteers (Accepted 20th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1883 - 61, 1884 - 59, 1885 - 100, 1889 - 103 (63), 1890 - 104, 1891 - 90 (63), 1892 - 79, 1893 - 68, 1894 - 90, 1895 - 67, 1898 - 80, 1899 - 104, 1900 - 92, 1901 - 117, 1902 - 122, 1903 - 111 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Naval Artillery Volunteers in good order.
No. 2 Company - Ponsonby Naval Artillery Volunteers (Accepted 22nd April 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 61, 1889 - 91 (63), 1890 - 81, 1891 - 60 (63), 1892 - 65, 1893 - 70, 1894 - 90, 1895 - 78, 1898 - 68, 1899 - 82, 1900 - 82, 1901 - 86, 1902 - 94, 1903 - 81 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Naval Artillery Volunteer uniform in good order.
No. 3 Company - Devonport Coastguard Artillery Volunteers (Also titled in 1884 Devonport Naval Artillery - First accepted 1st Jan 1884, then accepted 7th July 1894)
Strength: 1884 - 48, 1885 - 67, 1894 - 87, 1895 - 83, 1898 - 74, 1899 - 89, 1900 - 68, 1901 - 81, 1902 - 80, 1903 - 81 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above: A gilt brass, 1903 patt 24mm tunic button to the Naval Artillery Volunteers. Worn by some members of the New Zealand Garrision Artillery. Note the letters "N A V" to across center. Fixed shank to back, with the maker mark of "E STILLWELL & SON LONDON".
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- Above: A pair of Silver or Silver plate shoulder title to No. 1 Company - (Auckland Naval Artillery Volunteers) - A.N. Top has a brooch fitting to back, and is impressed to "J R GAUNT LONDON", while the base has two D shaped looped lugs to back. Size 14mm by 31mm.
- Opposite: A post 1902, brass cap badge to No. 1 Company - (Auckland Naval Artillery Volunteers) NZ Garrison Artillery. Motto: Ubique (Everywhere). |
- Above: A post 1902, brass cap badge to No. 2 Company - (Ponsonby Naval Artillery Volunteers) NZ Garrison Artillery.
- Opposite: A gilt brass helmet plate to the 1898 Coast Guard Artillery Volunteers. In Dec 1902, the title change to No. 9 Company - (Devonport) Devonport Coastguard Artillery, and then later again to No. 3 Company - Devonport Coastguard Artillery Volunteers. |
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- Above: A single piece, cast brass shoulder title to No. 3 Company - Devonport Coastguard Artillery Volunteers.
Two looped lugs to back, no maker mark (T Heighway collection). - Opposite: A map indicating the location of the Garrison Artillery Positions up to 1910, around the Harbour entrance to Auckland. It also shows the Submarine Mining Depot and positions of mines if required in to be layed in a emergency. Taken from "The Path To Gallipoli, Defending New Zealand 1840-1915" - Ian McGibbon 1991 |
- Above: An image of a Mr Waddell, who I believe is Lancelot Joseph Waddell, who is a member of the New Zealand Garrision Artillery Volunteers. If you enlarge his Cap badge, the bottom banner clearly shows "NZ GARRISON ARTILLERY", but sadly I cannot make out the first part of the banner, so don't know if its No. 1 Coy or No. 2 Coy. He wears two flaming grenade collars and 1902 patt Artillery buttons, with Kings crown over a Field gun. Nothing it appears to shoulder boards (Auckland Library collection 31-69031).
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- Above: Another image of a Mr L J Waddel, who I believe is Lancelot Joseph Waddell, and on his WW1 attestation, he states he was a member of the NZ Garrison Artillery. His WW1 service number was 43466. A flaming grenade collar size badge to his pipped side-hat and 1902 patt Artillery buttons, with Kings crown over a Field gun to his tunic. No Collar badges, but there might be something to shoulder boards (Auckland Library collection 31-68236).
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New Zealand Engineer Volunteers
No. 3 Company NZEV - Devonport Naval Submarine Mining Volunteers (Accepted 7th July 1894 - Disbanded 1907)
Strength: 1898 - 85, 1899 - 92, 1900 - 88, 1901 - 96, 1902 - 101, 1903 - 103 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 4 Company NZEV - Auckland Engineer Volunteers (Accepted 1866 & 24th April 1885 - Disbanded 1893 - Accepted 8th Nov 1898)
Strength: 1874 - 65, 1880 - 99, 1881 - 86, 1882 - 78, 1885 - 48, 1889 - 61 (48), 1890 - 55, 1891 - 48(48), 1892 - 53, 1893 - 48, 1899 - 68, 1900 - 56, 1901 - 83, 1902 - 82, 1903 - 83 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Engineer uniform (helmets and tunics) just received from England, but generally unfitted. Some of the men were in old uniform.
Strength: 1898 - 85, 1899 - 92, 1900 - 88, 1901 - 96, 1902 - 101, 1903 - 103 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 4 Company NZEV - Auckland Engineer Volunteers (Accepted 1866 & 24th April 1885 - Disbanded 1893 - Accepted 8th Nov 1898)
Strength: 1874 - 65, 1880 - 99, 1881 - 86, 1882 - 78, 1885 - 48, 1889 - 61 (48), 1890 - 55, 1891 - 48(48), 1892 - 53, 1893 - 48, 1899 - 68, 1900 - 56, 1901 - 83, 1902 - 82, 1903 - 83 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Engineer uniform (helmets and tunics) just received from England, but generally unfitted. Some of the men were in old uniform.
- Opposite: Described as "A group portrait of Auckland engineer volunteers in full uniform."
Taken from "The New Zealand Graphic and Ladies Journal", 15 February 1902, p.309 (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections NZG-19020215-0309-03).
Taken from "The New Zealand Graphic and Ladies Journal", 15 February 1902, p.309 (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections NZG-19020215-0309-03).
1st Regiment Auckland Mounted Rifle Volunteers
Unit composition of the 1st Regiment Auckland Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 1st May 1901
Headquarters: Auckland
It was made up of:
A Squadron - Auckland Mounted Rifle Volunteers
Strength: 1899 - 61, 1900 - 67, 1901 - 56, 1902 - 68, 1903 - 69 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Squadron - Pukekohe Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 11th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 77, 1902 - 84, 1903 - 72 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - Seddon Horse Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Auckland - Accepted 9th May 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 73, 1902 - 68, 1903 - 66 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Squadron - Franklin Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Clevedon - Accepted 16th May 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 47, 1902 - 81, 1903 - 77 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Squadron - Waiuku Mounted Rifle Volunteers (known also as Waiuku Royal Cavalry - First accepted 12th Mar 1866, then accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1874 - 33, 1880 - 68, 1881 - 58, 1882 - 71, 1883 - 55, 1884 - 63, 1885 - 63, 1889 - 66 (48), 1890 - 70, 1891 - 67 (48), 1892 - 68, 1893 - 56, 1894 - 59, 1895 - 59, 1901 - 80, 1902 - 80, 1903 - 81 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - White helmets hussar tunics, with black braid (officers, silver braid); brown-cord breeches gaiters high-heeled elastic-side boots, and lace boots. The tunics are generally old and shabby, but will last until it is decided what the uniform will be. The corps would have had new tunics, but were advised not by Colonel Goring.
F Squadron - Rodney Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Warkworth - Accepted 6th March 1902)
Strength: 1903 - 86 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above Right: A regimental shoulder title to 1st Regiment Auckland Mounted Rifle's in gilt brass. Two copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
Founded 1st May 1901
Headquarters: Auckland
It was made up of:
A Squadron - Auckland Mounted Rifle Volunteers
Strength: 1899 - 61, 1900 - 67, 1901 - 56, 1902 - 68, 1903 - 69 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Squadron - Pukekohe Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 11th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 77, 1902 - 84, 1903 - 72 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - Seddon Horse Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Auckland - Accepted 9th May 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 73, 1902 - 68, 1903 - 66 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Squadron - Franklin Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Clevedon - Accepted 16th May 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 47, 1902 - 81, 1903 - 77 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Squadron - Waiuku Mounted Rifle Volunteers (known also as Waiuku Royal Cavalry - First accepted 12th Mar 1866, then accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1874 - 33, 1880 - 68, 1881 - 58, 1882 - 71, 1883 - 55, 1884 - 63, 1885 - 63, 1889 - 66 (48), 1890 - 70, 1891 - 67 (48), 1892 - 68, 1893 - 56, 1894 - 59, 1895 - 59, 1901 - 80, 1902 - 80, 1903 - 81 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - White helmets hussar tunics, with black braid (officers, silver braid); brown-cord breeches gaiters high-heeled elastic-side boots, and lace boots. The tunics are generally old and shabby, but will last until it is decided what the uniform will be. The corps would have had new tunics, but were advised not by Colonel Goring.
F Squadron - Rodney Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Warkworth - Accepted 6th March 1902)
Strength: 1903 - 86 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above Right: A regimental shoulder title to 1st Regiment Auckland Mounted Rifle's in gilt brass. Two copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
- Above: A matching pair of Auckland Mounted Rifle shoulder titles in gilt brass. Two copper looped lugs to the back of each, no maker mark.
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- Above: A hand-cut shoulder title to Auckland Mounted Rifle's. Two copper wire lugs to back.
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2nd Regiment Auckland Mounted Rifle Volunteers
Unit composition of the 2nd Regiment Auckland Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 1st May 1901
Headquarters: Cambridge
It was made up of:
A Squadron - No.1 Company Waikato Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Hamilton - Accepted 22nd March 1887)
Strength: 1898 - 95, 1899 - 81, 1900 - 96, 1901 - 91, 1902 - 81, 1903 - 72 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Squadron - Piako Mounted Rifle Volunteers (formerly Te Aroha Rifle Volunteers - Accepted 15th Sept 1892 - transferred to Mouned Infantry on 5th April 1900.)
Strength: 1892 - 55, 1893 - 51, 1894 - 45, 1895 - 45, 1898 - 59, 1899 - 49, 1900 - 46, 1901 - 69, 1902 - 73, 1903 - 75 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - No.2 Company Waikato Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Te Awamutu - Accepted 28th July 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 59, 1900 - 57, 1901 - 61, 1902 - 67, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Squadron - No.3 Company Waikato Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Cambridge - Accepted 28th Oct 1899)
Strength: 1899 - 57, 1900 - 54, 1901 - 81, 1902 - 76, 1903 - 65 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Squadron - Raglan Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Raglan - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 66, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above Right: A single piece, gilt brass Glengarry badge to "B" Squadron - Piako Mounted Rifle Volunteers. Note the badge has a later brass shoulder strap backing plate to back.
Founded 1st May 1901
Headquarters: Cambridge
It was made up of:
A Squadron - No.1 Company Waikato Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Hamilton - Accepted 22nd March 1887)
Strength: 1898 - 95, 1899 - 81, 1900 - 96, 1901 - 91, 1902 - 81, 1903 - 72 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Squadron - Piako Mounted Rifle Volunteers (formerly Te Aroha Rifle Volunteers - Accepted 15th Sept 1892 - transferred to Mouned Infantry on 5th April 1900.)
Strength: 1892 - 55, 1893 - 51, 1894 - 45, 1895 - 45, 1898 - 59, 1899 - 49, 1900 - 46, 1901 - 69, 1902 - 73, 1903 - 75 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - No.2 Company Waikato Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Te Awamutu - Accepted 28th July 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 59, 1900 - 57, 1901 - 61, 1902 - 67, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Squadron - No.3 Company Waikato Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Cambridge - Accepted 28th Oct 1899)
Strength: 1899 - 57, 1900 - 54, 1901 - 81, 1902 - 76, 1903 - 65 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Squadron - Raglan Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Raglan - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 66, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above Right: A single piece, gilt brass Glengarry badge to "B" Squadron - Piako Mounted Rifle Volunteers. Note the badge has a later brass shoulder strap backing plate to back.
3rd Regiment Auckland Mounted Rifle Volunteers
Unit composition of the 3rd Regiment Auckland Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 28th Jan 1902
Headquarters: Kawakawa
It was made up of:
A Squadron - Marsden Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Whangarei - Accepted 5th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 85, 1902 - 61, 1903 - 67Officers, NCO and Men.
B Squadron - Otamatea Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Maungaturoto - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 84, 1902 - 80, 1903 - 85 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - Hokianga Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Waimamaku - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 57, 1902 - 67, 1903 - 69 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Squadron - Mangonui Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Mangonui - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 73, 1902 - 66, 1903 - 73 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Squadron - North Wairoa Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Dargaville)
Strength: 1901 - 72, 1902 - 80, 1903 - 68 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Squadron - Bay of Islands Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Ohaewai - Joined 1905)
G Squadron - Scottish Horse Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Waipu - Accepted 14th April 1906)
H Squadron - Mangakahia Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Mangatapere - Accepted 16th Nov 1906)
Disbanded:
E Squadron - Northern Wairoa Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Aratapu - Accepted 22nd Oct 1900 - Disbanded 24th July 1908)
Founded 28th Jan 1902
Headquarters: Kawakawa
It was made up of:
A Squadron - Marsden Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Whangarei - Accepted 5th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 85, 1902 - 61, 1903 - 67Officers, NCO and Men.
B Squadron - Otamatea Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Maungaturoto - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 84, 1902 - 80, 1903 - 85 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - Hokianga Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Waimamaku - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 57, 1902 - 67, 1903 - 69 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Squadron - Mangonui Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Mangonui - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 73, 1902 - 66, 1903 - 73 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Squadron - North Wairoa Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Dargaville)
Strength: 1901 - 72, 1902 - 80, 1903 - 68 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Squadron - Bay of Islands Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Ohaewai - Joined 1905)
G Squadron - Scottish Horse Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Waipu - Accepted 14th April 1906)
H Squadron - Mangakahia Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Mangatapere - Accepted 16th Nov 1906)
Disbanded:
E Squadron - Northern Wairoa Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Aratapu - Accepted 22nd Oct 1900 - Disbanded 24th July 1908)
- Above: A gilt brass slouched Hat badge to G Squadron - Scottish Horse Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Waipu). Motto: Virtu Et Valora (Vertue and Value). The Hat badges has three copper looped lugs to back, one to the Lions head, and two to the back of the banner. Size 55mm by 48mm and no maker mark.
- Above: A rare image of a Trooper in G Squadron - Scottish Horse Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Waipu). Note the hat badge (as above), and the double collars. Sadly no name or date. The Collars were opposing, with horns facing out, and Lions facing to center. All insignia was gilt brass. This is important to note as the Canterbury Honorary Rifle Corps wore the same badge (Cap and Collar) but in white metal, earlier, from 1885 to 1899ish. They did NOT wear the bugle collars like the Waipu though.
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- Above: A gilt fired brass and silver (not marked) of a Cap or Collar to the 3rd Regiment Auckland Mounted Rifles Volunteers. Two copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark.
- Above: A pair of white metal and gilt brass Cap or Collar badges to the 3rd Regiment Auckland Mounted Rifles Volunteers. The left badge has a coat of lacquer applied, which has yellowed with age. Two copper looped lugs to back, no maker mark.
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The badges to the 3rd Regiment Auckland Mounted Rifles Volunteers were adopted posts 1911, by the 11th (North Auckland) Mounted Rifles when their title was changed. The number and title were updated to the "11th" and "NAMR".
Motto: Kia Tupato (Be cautious).
Motto: Kia Tupato (Be cautious).
Formation of the 3rd (Auckland) Mounted Rifles
The second Anglo Boer War of 1899 to 1902, stirred a patriotic fervor within the Northland communities, which allowed for the recruitment of 4 Mounted Rifle Companies in 1900.
- Marsden Mounted Rifle Volunteers - based in Whangarei - commanded by Capt G Clark-Walker
- Otamatea Mounted Rifle Volunteers - based in Paparoa - commanded by Capt F Colbeck
- Northern Wairoa Mounted Rifle Volunteers - based in Dargaville - commanded by Capt N Z McLeod
- Mangonui Mounted Rifle Volunteers - based in Mangonui - commanded by Capt H D Eccles
These independent companies came together in 1901 when the Duke of York (later King George V) visited Auckland in 1901.
In 1902, they formed the 3rd Regiment, Auckland Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
In that year, the Regiment was also awarded the battle honors "South Africa 1902" in recognition of its many members who had served in that conflict.
Lieutenant Colonel H D Eccles was appointed the Regiments first Commanding Officer in 1904.
In 1905 the Bay of Island Mounted Rifles joined the the 3rd Regiment, Auckland Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
In 1906 the Scottish Horse of Waipu and the Mangakahia Mounted Rifles, joined the 3rd Regiment, Auckland Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
In 1911, with the introduction of 1909 Defence Act, General Godley was appointed Commander of New Zealand Defence Forces. It was also in this year, that the Regiments title was changed to the 11th (North Auckland) Mounted Rifles.
Lieutenant Colonel C E R Mackesy took over command of the regiment.
- Marsden Mounted Rifle Volunteers - based in Whangarei - commanded by Capt G Clark-Walker
- Otamatea Mounted Rifle Volunteers - based in Paparoa - commanded by Capt F Colbeck
- Northern Wairoa Mounted Rifle Volunteers - based in Dargaville - commanded by Capt N Z McLeod
- Mangonui Mounted Rifle Volunteers - based in Mangonui - commanded by Capt H D Eccles
These independent companies came together in 1901 when the Duke of York (later King George V) visited Auckland in 1901.
In 1902, they formed the 3rd Regiment, Auckland Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
In that year, the Regiment was also awarded the battle honors "South Africa 1902" in recognition of its many members who had served in that conflict.
Lieutenant Colonel H D Eccles was appointed the Regiments first Commanding Officer in 1904.
In 1905 the Bay of Island Mounted Rifles joined the the 3rd Regiment, Auckland Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
In 1906 the Scottish Horse of Waipu and the Mangakahia Mounted Rifles, joined the 3rd Regiment, Auckland Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
In 1911, with the introduction of 1909 Defence Act, General Godley was appointed Commander of New Zealand Defence Forces. It was also in this year, that the Regiments title was changed to the 11th (North Auckland) Mounted Rifles.
Lieutenant Colonel C E R Mackesy took over command of the regiment.
4th Regiment Auckland Mounted Rifle Volunteers
Unit composition of the 4th Regiment Auckland Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 28th Jan 1902
Headquarters: Te Puke
It was made up of:
A Squadron - Tauranga Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Tauranga - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 95, 1902 - 84, 1903 - 94 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Squadron - Opotiki Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 84, 1902 - 91, 1903 - 88 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - Whakatane Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Taneatua - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 36, 1902 - 66, 1903 - 85 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Squadron - Te Puke Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Founded 4th July 1903)
E Squadron - Matata Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Founded 21st Jan 1905)
Founded 28th Jan 1902
Headquarters: Te Puke
It was made up of:
A Squadron - Tauranga Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Tauranga - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 95, 1902 - 84, 1903 - 94 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Squadron - Opotiki Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 84, 1902 - 91, 1903 - 88 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - Whakatane Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Taneatua - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 36, 1902 - 66, 1903 - 85 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Squadron - Te Puke Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Founded 4th July 1903)
E Squadron - Matata Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Founded 21st Jan 1905)
1st Battalion Auckland Infantry Volunteers - Countess of Ranfurly's Own
Unit composition of the 1st Battalion Auckland Infantry Volunteers - Countess of Ranfurly's Own.
Founded 20th of May 1898.
Headquarters: Auckland
A Company - No. 1 Company, Victoria Rifle Volunteers (Auckland - Accepted 15th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1874 - 55, 1880 - 73, 1881 - 86, 1882 - 78, 1883 - 61, 1884 - 63, 1885 - 69, 1889 - 53 (63), 1890 - 60, 1891 - 63 (63), 1892 - 63, 1893 - 63, 1894 - 53, 1895 - 49, 1898 - 63, 1899 - 60, 1900 - 59, 1901 - 51, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 61 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet tunics black helmets in fair order.
B Company - College Rifle Volunteers (Auckland - Accepted 29th April 1885 & 17th June 1897)
Strength: 1885 - 65, 1898 - 60, 1899 - 64, 1900 - 73, 1901 - 81, 1902 - 60, 1903 - 42 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Company - No. 1 Company NZ Native Rifle Volunteers (Auckland - Accepted 23rd Nov 1897)
Strength: 1898 - 62, 1899 - 59, 1900 - 46, 1901 - 63, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 53 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - No. 2 Company NZ Native Rifle Volunteers (Auckland - Accepted 14th April 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 65, 1900 - 73, 1901 - 63, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Company - No. 3 Company NZ Native Rifle Volunteers (Auckland - Accepted 28th April 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 64, 1900 - 64, 1901 - 75, 1902 - 66, 1903 - 67 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - Gordon Rifle Volunteers (Formerly No. 2 Company, Victoria Rifle Volunteers - Accepted 6th May 1885 & 28th April 1898)
Strength: 1885 - 53, 1899 - 66, 1900 - 56, 1901 - 60, 1902 - 60, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
G Company - Newton Rifle Volunteers (Auckland - amalgamated with Auckland City Guard Rifle Volunteers in 1892 - Accepted 30th April 1885 & 1st Oct 1898)
Strength: 1885 - 60, 1889 - 74 (63), 1890 - 63, 1891 - 53 (63), 1892 - 63, 1893 - 63, 1894 - 45, 1895 - 37, 1899 - 78, 1900 - 72, 1901 - 65, 1902 - 43, 1903 - 46 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet tunics black helmets in many cases old and dirty.
H Company - Whangarei Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 29th May 1879 - Disbanded 1892 - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1880 - 51, 1881 - 48, 1882 - 64, 1883 - 42, 1884 - 45, 1885 - 50, 1889 - 50 (48), 1890 - 42, 1891 - 42 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
I Company - Kawakawa Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 45, 1902 - 68, 1903 - 60 Officers, NCO and Men.
J Company - Hikurangi Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 26th July 1902)
Strength:1903 - 56 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Opposite Above: A gilt brass Helmet plate to "A" Company - Victoria Rifle Volunteers
Founded 20th of May 1898.
Headquarters: Auckland
A Company - No. 1 Company, Victoria Rifle Volunteers (Auckland - Accepted 15th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1874 - 55, 1880 - 73, 1881 - 86, 1882 - 78, 1883 - 61, 1884 - 63, 1885 - 69, 1889 - 53 (63), 1890 - 60, 1891 - 63 (63), 1892 - 63, 1893 - 63, 1894 - 53, 1895 - 49, 1898 - 63, 1899 - 60, 1900 - 59, 1901 - 51, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 61 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet tunics black helmets in fair order.
B Company - College Rifle Volunteers (Auckland - Accepted 29th April 1885 & 17th June 1897)
Strength: 1885 - 65, 1898 - 60, 1899 - 64, 1900 - 73, 1901 - 81, 1902 - 60, 1903 - 42 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Company - No. 1 Company NZ Native Rifle Volunteers (Auckland - Accepted 23rd Nov 1897)
Strength: 1898 - 62, 1899 - 59, 1900 - 46, 1901 - 63, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 53 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - No. 2 Company NZ Native Rifle Volunteers (Auckland - Accepted 14th April 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 65, 1900 - 73, 1901 - 63, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Company - No. 3 Company NZ Native Rifle Volunteers (Auckland - Accepted 28th April 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 64, 1900 - 64, 1901 - 75, 1902 - 66, 1903 - 67 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - Gordon Rifle Volunteers (Formerly No. 2 Company, Victoria Rifle Volunteers - Accepted 6th May 1885 & 28th April 1898)
Strength: 1885 - 53, 1899 - 66, 1900 - 56, 1901 - 60, 1902 - 60, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
G Company - Newton Rifle Volunteers (Auckland - amalgamated with Auckland City Guard Rifle Volunteers in 1892 - Accepted 30th April 1885 & 1st Oct 1898)
Strength: 1885 - 60, 1889 - 74 (63), 1890 - 63, 1891 - 53 (63), 1892 - 63, 1893 - 63, 1894 - 45, 1895 - 37, 1899 - 78, 1900 - 72, 1901 - 65, 1902 - 43, 1903 - 46 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet tunics black helmets in many cases old and dirty.
H Company - Whangarei Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 29th May 1879 - Disbanded 1892 - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1880 - 51, 1881 - 48, 1882 - 64, 1883 - 42, 1884 - 45, 1885 - 50, 1889 - 50 (48), 1890 - 42, 1891 - 42 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
I Company - Kawakawa Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 45, 1902 - 68, 1903 - 60 Officers, NCO and Men.
J Company - Hikurangi Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 26th July 1902)
Strength:1903 - 56 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Opposite Above: A gilt brass Helmet plate to "A" Company - Victoria Rifle Volunteers
- Above: A glengarry badge to the Rutland Company - Auckland Rifle Volunteers. Formed 1860.
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Scottish Rifle Volunteers (Auckland District - Formed 8th July 1871 - disbanded Jan 1882)
Strength: 1871 - 40, 1874 - 35, 1880 - 69, 1881 - 45 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1871 - 40, 1874 - 35, 1880 - 69, 1881 - 45 Officers, NCO and Men.
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- Opposite and Above: A Cap and Collar badge set in gilt brass to B Company - Collage Rifle Volunteers (Auckland). Three looped lugs to the back of the Cap, while the two collars have two, in a North South configuration. These badges had a long life and not only formed the basis for the New Zealand Corps of Signals badges, but were worn by the members of the Corps until stocks were wasted/washed out. There are photographs of members of the NZCS wearing these up to and including WW1.
Motto: Sodales Parati (Prepared as comrades together) |
- Above: A scarce, locally made stamped brass 19mm button to B Company - Collage Rifle Volunteers (Auckland). No maker marked to back, and brass loop soldered to back. Note it also comes in a smaller, brass, 15mm size.
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- Opposite & Above: A scarce set of gilt brass Cap and matching, opposing Collar badges to the 1st Battalion, (Auckland) Infantry Regiment. All have copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Size of Cap is 46mm by 40mm, Collars are 32.5mm by 29mm.
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Dargaville Volunteer Rifles - 1885 to 1892.
Date of Acceptance - 22nd of June 1885
Strength: 15th of July 1885 - 44, 7th Jan 1887 - 50 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 15th of July 1885 - 44, 7th Jan 1887 - 50 Officers, NCO and Men.
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- Opposite & Above: A superb tunic to Service No. 22 Sgt Edmund Hillary of the Dargaville Rifle Volunteers. Edmund joined the unit at its formation in 1885, and by the following year, had the rank of Sergeant. He had seen service before, with the British at Crimea and also during the Indian Mutiny. Note the facing colours and tails of the tunic, which appear to be Engineer in fashion and colour. There is no maker mark to the tunic (Hillary Family Collection).
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- Above: Attached to the right sleeve is a marksmans badge in the form of a bullion rifle, and three efficiency stars. The stars here appear in gold bullion, and may indicate 27 years service (this including Edmund's British service). Each Gold bullion star indicated 9 years service, while each Silver bullion star would indicate 3 years service (Hillary Family Collection).
- Opposite: The shoulder strap of Edmund's tunic with "DRV" in embroidered thread. Note also the shoulder strap button, in white metal with the monogram of "VR" with QVC crown, which is a generic button, worn by Volunteers from from 1866 to 1909. The buttons are maker marked to "E Stillwell & Son, London" (Hillary Family Collection). |
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The Dargaville Rifle Volunteers appear to have no other unique insignia other than their cloth embroidered shoulder straps. Captain J. M. Dargaville was the C.O. of this unit, and also the founding father of the town, who it is named after. Prior to him forming the DRV, he was also involved with the Auckland Engineer Volunteers, and hence might explain the colours and tails of the DRV tunic.
J. M. Dargaville went on to form the Dargaville Defence Rifle Club which was still being mentioned in the news papers in 1909.
J. M. Dargaville went on to form the Dargaville Defence Rifle Club which was still being mentioned in the news papers in 1909.
2nd Battalion Auckland (Hauraki) Infantry Volunteers
Unit composition of the 2nd Battalion Auckland (Hauraki) Infantry Volunteers.
Founded 9th of July 1898.
Headquarters: Paeroa
A Company - No.1 Company Thames Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 13th April 1869 - were formally known as Thames Naval Volunteers/Brigade/Thames Naval Artillery Volunteers (Thames/Auckland (1891) District - on the 15th of November 1900, they changed to No. 1 Company Thames Rifle Volunteers)).
Strength: 1880 - 177, 1881 - 162, 1882 - 154, 1883 - 47, 1884 - 53, 1885 - 59, 1889 - 70 (48), 1890 - 65, 1891 - 60 (48), 1892 - 59, 1893 - 75, 1894 - 72, 1895 - 58, 1898 - 66, 1899 - 63, 1900 - 55, 1901 - 62, 1902 - 66, 1903 - 59 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Naval Artillery Volunteer uniform, in good order. The bandsmen were dressed in fancy uniform, very clean and smart.
B Company - No.1 Company Ohinemuri Rifle Volunteers (Paeroa - Accepted 16th June 1897)
Strength: 1898 - 68, 1899 - 57, 1900 - 65, 1901 - 68, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 69 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Company - Hauraki Rifle Volunteers (Thames - Accepted 11th Oct 1897)
Strength: 1898 - 69, 1899 - 66, 1900 - 66, 1901 - 65, 1902 - 70, 1903 - 68 Officers, NCO and Men.
Founded 9th of July 1898.
Headquarters: Paeroa
A Company - No.1 Company Thames Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 13th April 1869 - were formally known as Thames Naval Volunteers/Brigade/Thames Naval Artillery Volunteers (Thames/Auckland (1891) District - on the 15th of November 1900, they changed to No. 1 Company Thames Rifle Volunteers)).
Strength: 1880 - 177, 1881 - 162, 1882 - 154, 1883 - 47, 1884 - 53, 1885 - 59, 1889 - 70 (48), 1890 - 65, 1891 - 60 (48), 1892 - 59, 1893 - 75, 1894 - 72, 1895 - 58, 1898 - 66, 1899 - 63, 1900 - 55, 1901 - 62, 1902 - 66, 1903 - 59 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Naval Artillery Volunteer uniform, in good order. The bandsmen were dressed in fancy uniform, very clean and smart.
B Company - No.1 Company Ohinemuri Rifle Volunteers (Paeroa - Accepted 16th June 1897)
Strength: 1898 - 68, 1899 - 57, 1900 - 65, 1901 - 68, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 69 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Company - Hauraki Rifle Volunteers (Thames - Accepted 11th Oct 1897)
Strength: 1898 - 69, 1899 - 66, 1900 - 66, 1901 - 65, 1902 - 70, 1903 - 68 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above: A multi-piece, Officers Helmet plate to "C" Company - Hauraki Rifle Volunteers (Thames).
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- Above: A multi-piece, Other Ranks Helmet plate to "C" Company - Hauraki Rifle Volunteers (Thames).
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- Opposite: A pair of multi piece Collar badges to "C" Company - Hauraki Rifle Volunteers (Thames - image from the internet).
Motto: Nulli Secundus (Second to none).
D Company - No.3 Company Ohinemuri Rifle Volunteers (Waihi - Accepted 29th Nov 1897)
Strength: 1898 - 62, 1899 - 65, 1900 - 63, 1901 - 65, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 66 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Company - Coromandel Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 15th Aug 1879 - Disbanded 1889 - Accepted 28th Feb 1898)
Strength: 1880 - 78, 1881 - 82, 1882 - 86, 1883 - 52, 1884 - 42, 1885 - 45, 1889 - 44 (48), 1898 - 69, 1899 - 64, 1900 - 68, 1901 - 59, 1902 - 57, 1903 - 50 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - No.3 Company Ohinemuri Rifle Volunteers (Waihi - Accepted 29th Nov 1897)
Strength: 1898 - 62, 1899 - 65, 1900 - 63, 1901 - 65, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 66 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Company - Coromandel Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 15th Aug 1879 - Disbanded 1889 - Accepted 28th Feb 1898)
Strength: 1880 - 78, 1881 - 82, 1882 - 86, 1883 - 52, 1884 - 42, 1885 - 45, 1889 - 44 (48), 1898 - 69, 1899 - 64, 1900 - 68, 1901 - 59, 1902 - 57, 1903 - 50 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - Huntly Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th March 1900)
Strength: 1900 - 77, 1901 - 76, 1902 - 71, 1903 - 82 Officers, NCO and Men.
G Company - Waihi Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 66, 1902 - 60, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
Three other companies existed, but were disbanded by 1907.
Onehunga Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 8th May 1885 - disbanded 1891, accepted 9th July 1898 & disbanded 8 April 1905)
Strength: 1871 - 82, 1885 - 62, 1889 - 63 (63), 1890 - 63, 1891 - 66 (63), 1899 - 54, 1900 - 69, 1901 - 59, 1902 - 51, 1903 - 45 Officers, NCO and Men.
Rotorua Rifle Volunteers - Accepted 10th Sept 1900 - Disbanded 6 June 1905
Strength: 1901 - 63, 1902 - 60, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
No.2 Company Ohinemuri Rifle Volunteers (Karangahake) - Formed 26th July 1897 - Disbanded 30th Nov 1901
Strength: 1898 - 67, 1899 - 63, 1900 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Opposite: A white metal Helmet plate to the Thames Scottish Volunteers (Image from the Internet).
Strength: 1900 - 77, 1901 - 76, 1902 - 71, 1903 - 82 Officers, NCO and Men.
G Company - Waihi Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 66, 1902 - 60, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
Three other companies existed, but were disbanded by 1907.
Onehunga Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 8th May 1885 - disbanded 1891, accepted 9th July 1898 & disbanded 8 April 1905)
Strength: 1871 - 82, 1885 - 62, 1889 - 63 (63), 1890 - 63, 1891 - 66 (63), 1899 - 54, 1900 - 69, 1901 - 59, 1902 - 51, 1903 - 45 Officers, NCO and Men.
Rotorua Rifle Volunteers - Accepted 10th Sept 1900 - Disbanded 6 June 1905
Strength: 1901 - 63, 1902 - 60, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
No.2 Company Ohinemuri Rifle Volunteers (Karangahake) - Formed 26th July 1897 - Disbanded 30th Nov 1901
Strength: 1898 - 67, 1899 - 63, 1900 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Opposite: A white metal Helmet plate to the Thames Scottish Volunteers (Image from the Internet).
New Zealand Field Hospital and Bearer Corps
No. 1 Company - Auckland Volunteer Bearer Corps (Accepted 4th May 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 27, 1900 - 24, 1901 - 24, 1902 - 37, 1903 - 34 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1899 - 27, 1900 - 24, 1901 - 24, 1902 - 37, 1903 - 34 Officers, NCO and Men.
Volunteer Cycle Corps
Auckland Volunteer Cyclist Corps (Accepted 14th Aug 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 25, 1902 - 23, 1903 - 22 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1901 - 25, 1902 - 23, 1903 - 22 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Opposite: A black and white newspaper photograph taken from the Auckland Weekly News, 3 May 1901, p.11, showing the Auckland Volunteer Cycle Corps about to mount their bicycles for a run (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections AWNS-19010503-11-01)
Other Units not in the above Formations
Naval Brigade (Auckland District)
Strength: 1874 - 91, 1880 - 111, 1881 - 104, 1882 - 89 Officers, NCO and Men.
Waitemata Naval Artillery (Auckland District - Accepted 30th April 1885, disbanded 1889)
Strength: 1889 - 72 (63) Officers, NCO and Men.
Prince Alfred Troop (Auckland District)
Strength: 1871 - 35 Officers, NCO and Men.
Hobson Rifles (Auckland District - Accepted 3rd April 1871)
Strength: 1871 - 32, 1874 - 65, 1880 - 100, 1881 - 84, 1882 - 65, 1883 - 52, 1884 - 61, 1885 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
Otahuhu Rifle Volunteers (Auckland District - Disbanded Jan 1882)
Strength: 1871 - 69, 1874 - 36, 1880 - 52, 1881 - 35 Officers, NCO and Men.
Otahuhu Cavalry (Auckland District)
Strength: 1871 - 30, 1874 - 20 Officers, NCO and Men.
Howick Cavalry (Auckland District - Disbanded 1874)
Strength: 1871 - 32, 1874 - 16 Officers, NCO and Men.
Artillery (Auckland District - Disbanded 1874 - not recorded if this was Garrison or Field Artillery)
Strength: 1871 - 62, 1874 - 26 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 1 Rifles (Auckland District)
Strength: 1874 - 71 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 2 Rifles (Auckland District)
Strength: 1874 - 37 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 3 & No. 4 Rifles (Auckland District)
Strength: 1874 - 60 Officers, NCO and Men.
Drury Cavalry (Waiuku District)
Strength: 1874 - 34 Officers, NCO and Men.
Forest Rifles (Waiuku/Auckland District)
Strength: 1874 - 46, 1880 - 54 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 1 Waiuku Rifles (Waiuku District)
Strength: 1874 - 48 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 2 Waiuku Rifles (Waiuku District)
Strength: 1874 - 38 Officers, NCO and Men.
Auckland City Guards Rifles (Auckland District - Accepted - 17th Feb 1866 - Amalgamated with Newton Rifle Volunteers in 1892)
Strength: 1883 - 54, 1884 - 45, 1885 - 100, 1889 - 70 (63), 1890 - 63, 1891 - 53 (63), 1892 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Ordinary uniform scarlet tunics black helmets in fair order.
Royal Irish Rifles (Auckland District - Disbanded 1891)
Strength: 1889 - 63 (63), 1890 - 67, 1891 - 51 (63) Officers, NCO and Men.
Garrison Band (Auckland District)
Strength: 1883 - 23, 1884 - 25, 1885 - 24, 1889 - 27, 1890 - 25, 1891 - 25, 1892 - 28, 1893 - 25, 1894 - 25, 1895 - 25 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 1 Pukekohe Rifles (Waiuku District)
Strength: 1874 - 48 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 2 Pukekohe Rifles (Waiuku District)
Strength: 1874 - 40 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 3 Pukekohe Rifles (Waiuku District)
Strength: 1874 - 46 Officers, NCO and Men.
Pukekohe Rifles (Auckland & Waiuku District)
Strength: 1880 - 63, 1881 - 47 Officers, NCO and Men.
Manukua Rifles (Waiuku District)
Strength: 1874 - 27 Officers, NCO and Men.
Pokeno Rifle Rangers Volunteer Company (Waiuku District)
Strength: 1874 - 23 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1874 - 91, 1880 - 111, 1881 - 104, 1882 - 89 Officers, NCO and Men.
Waitemata Naval Artillery (Auckland District - Accepted 30th April 1885, disbanded 1889)
Strength: 1889 - 72 (63) Officers, NCO and Men.
Prince Alfred Troop (Auckland District)
Strength: 1871 - 35 Officers, NCO and Men.
Hobson Rifles (Auckland District - Accepted 3rd April 1871)
Strength: 1871 - 32, 1874 - 65, 1880 - 100, 1881 - 84, 1882 - 65, 1883 - 52, 1884 - 61, 1885 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
Otahuhu Rifle Volunteers (Auckland District - Disbanded Jan 1882)
Strength: 1871 - 69, 1874 - 36, 1880 - 52, 1881 - 35 Officers, NCO and Men.
Otahuhu Cavalry (Auckland District)
Strength: 1871 - 30, 1874 - 20 Officers, NCO and Men.
Howick Cavalry (Auckland District - Disbanded 1874)
Strength: 1871 - 32, 1874 - 16 Officers, NCO and Men.
Artillery (Auckland District - Disbanded 1874 - not recorded if this was Garrison or Field Artillery)
Strength: 1871 - 62, 1874 - 26 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 1 Rifles (Auckland District)
Strength: 1874 - 71 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 2 Rifles (Auckland District)
Strength: 1874 - 37 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 3 & No. 4 Rifles (Auckland District)
Strength: 1874 - 60 Officers, NCO and Men.
Drury Cavalry (Waiuku District)
Strength: 1874 - 34 Officers, NCO and Men.
Forest Rifles (Waiuku/Auckland District)
Strength: 1874 - 46, 1880 - 54 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 1 Waiuku Rifles (Waiuku District)
Strength: 1874 - 48 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 2 Waiuku Rifles (Waiuku District)
Strength: 1874 - 38 Officers, NCO and Men.
Auckland City Guards Rifles (Auckland District - Accepted - 17th Feb 1866 - Amalgamated with Newton Rifle Volunteers in 1892)
Strength: 1883 - 54, 1884 - 45, 1885 - 100, 1889 - 70 (63), 1890 - 63, 1891 - 53 (63), 1892 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Ordinary uniform scarlet tunics black helmets in fair order.
Royal Irish Rifles (Auckland District - Disbanded 1891)
Strength: 1889 - 63 (63), 1890 - 67, 1891 - 51 (63) Officers, NCO and Men.
Garrison Band (Auckland District)
Strength: 1883 - 23, 1884 - 25, 1885 - 24, 1889 - 27, 1890 - 25, 1891 - 25, 1892 - 28, 1893 - 25, 1894 - 25, 1895 - 25 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 1 Pukekohe Rifles (Waiuku District)
Strength: 1874 - 48 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 2 Pukekohe Rifles (Waiuku District)
Strength: 1874 - 40 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 3 Pukekohe Rifles (Waiuku District)
Strength: 1874 - 46 Officers, NCO and Men.
Pukekohe Rifles (Auckland & Waiuku District)
Strength: 1880 - 63, 1881 - 47 Officers, NCO and Men.
Manukua Rifles (Waiuku District)
Strength: 1874 - 27 Officers, NCO and Men.
Pokeno Rifle Rangers Volunteer Company (Waiuku District)
Strength: 1874 - 23 Officers, NCO and Men.
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- Above Left & Right: The Champion Cross of the Pokeno Rifle Rangers Volunteer Company dated 1874. It is recorded in the Auckland Star on the 3rd of July 1874 as:
"QUEEN'S REDOUBT. — FIRING FOR CHAMPION CROSS.
The firing for the Champion Cross, presented by Captain Porter and Lieut. Diviani, to the Pokeno Rangers Rifle Volunteer Company, came off on Saturday last, the distances being 300, 400. 500 and 600 yards ; five shots at each range; no trial shot. Some good shooting was made by some of the young men, Corporal M. Gallery and Volunteer T. McGinity keeping very close together. At the 600 yards Gallery passed McGinity, and became the winner of the Cross by two points. It is a very handsome silver Cross made by Mr Schwartze, of Auckland, to whom great credit is due for the workman like manner in which he tured it out. After the firing the Company paraded for their monthly inspection by Major Lusk, and the district prize money was paid. The Pokeno Rangers took five prizes—two for the Company and three to the Cadets. After parade Captain Porter paid the capitation to both men and Cadets."
Cross is approximatly 50mm by 50mm.
"QUEEN'S REDOUBT. — FIRING FOR CHAMPION CROSS.
The firing for the Champion Cross, presented by Captain Porter and Lieut. Diviani, to the Pokeno Rangers Rifle Volunteer Company, came off on Saturday last, the distances being 300, 400. 500 and 600 yards ; five shots at each range; no trial shot. Some good shooting was made by some of the young men, Corporal M. Gallery and Volunteer T. McGinity keeping very close together. At the 600 yards Gallery passed McGinity, and became the winner of the Cross by two points. It is a very handsome silver Cross made by Mr Schwartze, of Auckland, to whom great credit is due for the workman like manner in which he tured it out. After the firing the Company paraded for their monthly inspection by Major Lusk, and the district prize money was paid. The Pokeno Rangers took five prizes—two for the Company and three to the Cadets. After parade Captain Porter paid the capitation to both men and Cadets."
Cross is approximatly 50mm by 50mm.
Tuakau Rifles (Auckland & Waiuku District)
Strength: 1880 - 53, 1881 - 60 Officers, NCO and Men.
Wairoa Rifles (Auckland & Waiuku District - Accepted 15th Feb 1866 - Disbanded 1892)
Strength: 1874 - 47, 1880 - 53, 1881 - 48, 1882 - 57, 1883 - 38, 1884 - 36, 1885 - 50, 1889 - 40 (48), 1890 - 48, 1891 - 49 (48), 1892 - 45 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - On inspecting the corps found that the clothing of officers, non-commissioned officers, and men was old, shabby, and dirty; the trousers in most cases were filthy, and made of serge instead of cloth. Three men in the ranks had on plain clothes trousers, and one man wore civilian hat. Captain Crawford informed me that no uniform had been bought for the company for ten years; and, on being asked how the capitation-money had been expended, he stated that it went in several ways, one being to pay the expenses of rifle teams going about the country from time to time.
South Franklin Mounted Infantry or Rifles (Waiuku/Auckland District - Accepted 28th of May 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 32, 1889 - 53 (48), 1890 - 56, 1891 - 48 (48), 1892 - 42, 1893 - 61, 1894 - 60, 1895 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) White helmets, red tunics, and black overalls are worn by this corps. The overalls are badly cut and fitting, and not well suited for mounted infantry work. Major Harris will have the men in breeches and gaiters shortly.
Onehunga Naval Artillery (Auckland District - Accepted 2nd May 1885, disbanded 1889)
Strength: 1885 - 78, 1889 - 88 (63) Officers, NCO and Men.
Cavalry, Auckland Troop (Auckland District)
Strength: 1871 - 27, 1874 - 33, 1885 - 43 Officers, NCO and Men.
Auckland Veteran Rifles (Auckland District - Accepted 8th May 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 57 Officers, NCO and Men.
Ponsonby Rifles (Auckland District - Accepted 13th May 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
Naval Coastguards (Auckland District)
Strength: 1885 - 66 Officers, NCO and Men.
Queen's Own Rifles (Auckland District - Accepted 12th May 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 56 Officers, NCO and Men.
Opotiki Rifle Rangers Volunteers (formed 29th August 1867)
Tauranga Cavalry (formed 30th December 1868 - disbanded 9th of August 1870)
Hauraki Engineers (Thames District - Accepted 1870's)
Strength: 1880 - 166, 1881 - 112, 1882 - 91 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 1 Scottish Rifles (Thames District - Disbanded 1882)
Strength: 1880 - 130, 1881 - 130 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 2 Scottish Rifles (Thames District - Disbanded 1882)
Strength: 1880 - 100, 1881 - 96 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 3 Scottish Rifles (Thames District)
Strength: 1880 - 57, 1881 - 41 Officers, NCO and Men.
Thames Rangers Rifles (Thames District)
Strength: 1880 - 115, 1881 - 116, 1882 - 97, 1883 - 53, 1884 - 51, 1885 - 56 Officers, NCO and Men.
Thames Native Rifles (Thames District)
Strength: 1880 - 46, 1881 - 51, 1882 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
Waikato Regiment of Cavalry (Waikato District) - the below three were reported as a combined unit
Strength: 1881 - 190, 1882 - 171 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1880 - 53, 1881 - 60 Officers, NCO and Men.
Wairoa Rifles (Auckland & Waiuku District - Accepted 15th Feb 1866 - Disbanded 1892)
Strength: 1874 - 47, 1880 - 53, 1881 - 48, 1882 - 57, 1883 - 38, 1884 - 36, 1885 - 50, 1889 - 40 (48), 1890 - 48, 1891 - 49 (48), 1892 - 45 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - On inspecting the corps found that the clothing of officers, non-commissioned officers, and men was old, shabby, and dirty; the trousers in most cases were filthy, and made of serge instead of cloth. Three men in the ranks had on plain clothes trousers, and one man wore civilian hat. Captain Crawford informed me that no uniform had been bought for the company for ten years; and, on being asked how the capitation-money had been expended, he stated that it went in several ways, one being to pay the expenses of rifle teams going about the country from time to time.
South Franklin Mounted Infantry or Rifles (Waiuku/Auckland District - Accepted 28th of May 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 32, 1889 - 53 (48), 1890 - 56, 1891 - 48 (48), 1892 - 42, 1893 - 61, 1894 - 60, 1895 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) White helmets, red tunics, and black overalls are worn by this corps. The overalls are badly cut and fitting, and not well suited for mounted infantry work. Major Harris will have the men in breeches and gaiters shortly.
Onehunga Naval Artillery (Auckland District - Accepted 2nd May 1885, disbanded 1889)
Strength: 1885 - 78, 1889 - 88 (63) Officers, NCO and Men.
Cavalry, Auckland Troop (Auckland District)
Strength: 1871 - 27, 1874 - 33, 1885 - 43 Officers, NCO and Men.
Auckland Veteran Rifles (Auckland District - Accepted 8th May 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 57 Officers, NCO and Men.
Ponsonby Rifles (Auckland District - Accepted 13th May 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
Naval Coastguards (Auckland District)
Strength: 1885 - 66 Officers, NCO and Men.
Queen's Own Rifles (Auckland District - Accepted 12th May 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 56 Officers, NCO and Men.
Opotiki Rifle Rangers Volunteers (formed 29th August 1867)
Tauranga Cavalry (formed 30th December 1868 - disbanded 9th of August 1870)
Hauraki Engineers (Thames District - Accepted 1870's)
Strength: 1880 - 166, 1881 - 112, 1882 - 91 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 1 Scottish Rifles (Thames District - Disbanded 1882)
Strength: 1880 - 130, 1881 - 130 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 2 Scottish Rifles (Thames District - Disbanded 1882)
Strength: 1880 - 100, 1881 - 96 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 3 Scottish Rifles (Thames District)
Strength: 1880 - 57, 1881 - 41 Officers, NCO and Men.
Thames Rangers Rifles (Thames District)
Strength: 1880 - 115, 1881 - 116, 1882 - 97, 1883 - 53, 1884 - 51, 1885 - 56 Officers, NCO and Men.
Thames Native Rifles (Thames District)
Strength: 1880 - 46, 1881 - 51, 1882 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
Waikato Regiment of Cavalry (Waikato District) - the below three were reported as a combined unit
Strength: 1881 - 190, 1882 - 171 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Te Awamutu Cavalry (Waiuku/Waikato/Auckland (1889) District - Accepted 2nd Mar 1871)
Strength: 1874 - 64, 1880 - 124, 1883 - 61, 1884 - 50, 1885 - 65, 1889 - 46 (48), 1890 - 45, 1891 - 49(48), 1892 - 57, 1893 - 49, 1894 - 46, 1895 - 46 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Kharkee (Khaki). A few men had on blucher boots and light-coloured cord breeches. This was explained by the fact of ten sets of uniform not having yet been supplied. It was the first time that the men wore their uniform on mounted parade, and was sorry to observe that in some cases the frocks had been already marked by the carbines being slung across the shoulders. The morning had been very wet and stormy, and the head dresses were much bedraggled in consequence. personally think that this form of head-gear is very inefficient.
- Opposite: A two piece, white metal Helmet plate to Te Awamutu 1st Royal New Zealand Cavalry Volunteers. The center of the plate, featuring the Lion, crown and circular wreath is separate from the large backing plate. Three copper loops are to back, with one behind the crown and two on ether side of the center, in a East/West configuration. No maker mark (image taken from the internet).
- Hamilton Contingent Cavalry (Waikato District - Disbanded 1883/1884)
Strength: 1880 - 59 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Cambridge Cavalry (Waikato District - Disbanded 1883/1884)
Strength: 1874 - 51, 1880 - 80 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1874 - 64, 1880 - 124, 1883 - 61, 1884 - 50, 1885 - 65, 1889 - 46 (48), 1890 - 45, 1891 - 49(48), 1892 - 57, 1893 - 49, 1894 - 46, 1895 - 46 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Kharkee (Khaki). A few men had on blucher boots and light-coloured cord breeches. This was explained by the fact of ten sets of uniform not having yet been supplied. It was the first time that the men wore their uniform on mounted parade, and was sorry to observe that in some cases the frocks had been already marked by the carbines being slung across the shoulders. The morning had been very wet and stormy, and the head dresses were much bedraggled in consequence. personally think that this form of head-gear is very inefficient.
- Opposite: A two piece, white metal Helmet plate to Te Awamutu 1st Royal New Zealand Cavalry Volunteers. The center of the plate, featuring the Lion, crown and circular wreath is separate from the large backing plate. Three copper loops are to back, with one behind the crown and two on ether side of the center, in a East/West configuration. No maker mark (image taken from the internet).
- Hamilton Contingent Cavalry (Waikato District - Disbanded 1883/1884)
Strength: 1880 - 59 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Cambridge Cavalry (Waikato District - Disbanded 1883/1884)
Strength: 1874 - 51, 1880 - 80 Officers, NCO and Men.
Waikato Rifles (Waikato District)
Strength: 1874 - 37 Officers, NCO and Men.
Bay of Plenty Volunteer Cavalry (Opotiki District - formed 23rd December 1866 )
Strength: 1880 - 29 Officers, NCO and Men.
Queen's Native Rifles (Opotiki District - Disbanded 1880)
Strength: 1880 - 27 Officers, NCO and Men.
Hamilton Rifles (Hamilton Light Infantry - Waikato/Auckland (1889) District)
Strength: 1880 - 81, 1889 - 70 (48), 1890 - 51, 1891 - 56(48), 1892 - 52, 1893 - 48, 1894 - 48, 1895 - 33 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Black helmets; red tunics; black trousers good clean turn-out.
Avondale Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 16th Feb 1895)
Strength: 1895 - 51, 1898 - 44 Officers, NCO and Men.
Auckland Rifle Volunteers (known as the No. 3, Auckland Rifles)
Strength: 1880 - 71, 1881 - 89, 1882 - 64, 1899 - 59, 1900 - 59, 1901 - 64, 1902 - 59 Officers, NCO and Men.
Auckland Royal Dragoons (Accepted 9th Sept 1885)
Auckland B Troop (Accepted 27th of Jan 1886)
Nagati Porou (Native) Rifles (Accepted 18th of May 1886)
- Opposite: A image of the commanding Officer of the Nagati Porou (Native) Rifles, Captain Tuta Matutaera Nihoniho. Tuta was also a veteran of the New Zealand Wars and wrote a account of his explotes (Image taken from Narrative of the Fighting on the East Coast (Nga Pakanga Ki Te Tai Rawhiti) 1865–71, with a Monograph on Bush Fighting (Me Nga Korero Mo Uenuku), Wellington: John MacKay, 1913, p. 45)
Strength: 1874 - 37 Officers, NCO and Men.
Bay of Plenty Volunteer Cavalry (Opotiki District - formed 23rd December 1866 )
Strength: 1880 - 29 Officers, NCO and Men.
Queen's Native Rifles (Opotiki District - Disbanded 1880)
Strength: 1880 - 27 Officers, NCO and Men.
Hamilton Rifles (Hamilton Light Infantry - Waikato/Auckland (1889) District)
Strength: 1880 - 81, 1889 - 70 (48), 1890 - 51, 1891 - 56(48), 1892 - 52, 1893 - 48, 1894 - 48, 1895 - 33 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Black helmets; red tunics; black trousers good clean turn-out.
Avondale Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 16th Feb 1895)
Strength: 1895 - 51, 1898 - 44 Officers, NCO and Men.
Auckland Rifle Volunteers (known as the No. 3, Auckland Rifles)
Strength: 1880 - 71, 1881 - 89, 1882 - 64, 1899 - 59, 1900 - 59, 1901 - 64, 1902 - 59 Officers, NCO and Men.
Auckland Royal Dragoons (Accepted 9th Sept 1885)
Auckland B Troop (Accepted 27th of Jan 1886)
Nagati Porou (Native) Rifles (Accepted 18th of May 1886)
- Opposite: A image of the commanding Officer of the Nagati Porou (Native) Rifles, Captain Tuta Matutaera Nihoniho. Tuta was also a veteran of the New Zealand Wars and wrote a account of his explotes (Image taken from Narrative of the Fighting on the East Coast (Nga Pakanga Ki Te Tai Rawhiti) 1865–71, with a Monograph on Bush Fighting (Me Nga Korero Mo Uenuku), Wellington: John MacKay, 1913, p. 45)
Earlier Formations
1st Battalion Auckland Naval Artillery Volunteers - Accepted 26th Jan 1886
- Auckland Naval Artillery Volunteers
- Thames Naval Artillery Volunteers
- Devonport Naval Artillery Volunteers
- Ponsonby Naval Artillery Volunteers
- Waitemata Naval Artillery Volunteers
- Onehunga Naval Artillery Volunteers
2nd Battalion Auckland Rifle Volunteers - Accepted 26th Jan 1886
- Victoria Rifle Volunteers
- Auckland City Guards
- Hobson Rifle Volunteers
- Onehunga Rifle Volunteers
- Queen's Own Rifle Volunteers
3rd Battalion Auckland Rifle Volunteers - Accepted 26th Jan 1886
- Auckland College Rifle Volunteers
- Newton (Auckland) Rifle Volunteers
- Gordon Rifle Volunteers
- Auckland Veteran Rifle Volunteers
- Ponsonby Rifle Volunteers
- Auckland Naval Artillery Volunteers
- Thames Naval Artillery Volunteers
- Devonport Naval Artillery Volunteers
- Ponsonby Naval Artillery Volunteers
- Waitemata Naval Artillery Volunteers
- Onehunga Naval Artillery Volunteers
2nd Battalion Auckland Rifle Volunteers - Accepted 26th Jan 1886
- Victoria Rifle Volunteers
- Auckland City Guards
- Hobson Rifle Volunteers
- Onehunga Rifle Volunteers
- Queen's Own Rifle Volunteers
3rd Battalion Auckland Rifle Volunteers - Accepted 26th Jan 1886
- Auckland College Rifle Volunteers
- Newton (Auckland) Rifle Volunteers
- Gordon Rifle Volunteers
- Auckland Veteran Rifle Volunteers
- Ponsonby Rifle Volunteers
1st Regiment N.Z. (North Island) Cavalry Volunteers
- Waiuku Royal Cavalry Volunteers
- Alexandra Cavalry Volunteers
- Wairoa Light Horse Volunteers
- Te Awamutu Cavalry Volunteers
- Heretaunga Light Horse Volunteers
- Rangitikei Cavalry Volunteers
- Auckland B Troop Volunteers
- Opposite: A helmet plate to the 1st Regiment - New Zealand Cavalry Volunteers.
- Waiuku Royal Cavalry Volunteers
- Alexandra Cavalry Volunteers
- Wairoa Light Horse Volunteers
- Te Awamutu Cavalry Volunteers
- Heretaunga Light Horse Volunteers
- Rangitikei Cavalry Volunteers
- Auckland B Troop Volunteers
- Opposite: A helmet plate to the 1st Regiment - New Zealand Cavalry Volunteers.
Cadet Corps
St John's College Rifle Cadet Force Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 38, 1899 - 45, 1900 - 43, 1901 - 41, 1902 - 49, 1903 - 50 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Prince Albert College Engineer Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 41, 1899 - 56 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Auckland College and Grammar School Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 44, 1899 - 61, 1900 - 58, 1901 - 41, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 67 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Kings's College Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 64, 1899 - 64, 1900 - 64, 1901 - 64, 1902 - 56, 1903 - 56 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Eden Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 70, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Hamilton Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1903 - 45 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Engineer Cadets (Auckland District)
Strength: 1880 - 84, 1881 - 68 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Artillery (Grammer School) Cadets (Auckland District)
Strength: 1880 - 55, 1881 - 53, 1882 - 61, 1883 - 40 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Thames Scottish Cadets (Thames District)
Strength: 1880 - 63, 1881 - 37 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
St George's Naval Cadets (Thames District)
Strength: 1880 - 80, 1881 - 56, 1882 - 57 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1898 - 38, 1899 - 45, 1900 - 43, 1901 - 41, 1902 - 49, 1903 - 50 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Prince Albert College Engineer Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 41, 1899 - 56 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Auckland College and Grammar School Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 44, 1899 - 61, 1900 - 58, 1901 - 41, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 67 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Kings's College Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 64, 1899 - 64, 1900 - 64, 1901 - 64, 1902 - 56, 1903 - 56 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Eden Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 70, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Hamilton Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1903 - 45 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Engineer Cadets (Auckland District)
Strength: 1880 - 84, 1881 - 68 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Artillery (Grammer School) Cadets (Auckland District)
Strength: 1880 - 55, 1881 - 53, 1882 - 61, 1883 - 40 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Thames Scottish Cadets (Thames District)
Strength: 1880 - 63, 1881 - 37 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
St George's Naval Cadets (Thames District)
Strength: 1880 - 80, 1881 - 56, 1882 - 57 Officers, NCO and Men.
Wellington Military District.
Detachment of Royal New Zealand Artillery
Detachment of Royal New Zealand Engineers
The RNZE were established on the 15th of October, 1902, with the prefix "Royal". They formed from the 2nd Service Company of the New Zealand Permanent Force (the 1st Service Company formed the Royal NZ Artillery at the same time).
The unit was based in Wellington and Auckland (no South Island units).
In 1907 the Royal New Zealand Engineers were absorbed into the Royal New Zealand Artillery, as they were primarily associated with the anti-Submarine defences of New Zealand. This role was handed to the New Zealand Royal Naval station in that year.
- Opposite: A Cap badge to the "Royal NZ Engineers". With King Edward VII cypher to center, in gilt brass. Worn 1902 to 1907. Two copper looped lugs to back, but with no maker mark. Size 46mm by 40mm.
Detachment of Royal New Zealand Engineers
The RNZE were established on the 15th of October, 1902, with the prefix "Royal". They formed from the 2nd Service Company of the New Zealand Permanent Force (the 1st Service Company formed the Royal NZ Artillery at the same time).
The unit was based in Wellington and Auckland (no South Island units).
In 1907 the Royal New Zealand Engineers were absorbed into the Royal New Zealand Artillery, as they were primarily associated with the anti-Submarine defences of New Zealand. This role was handed to the New Zealand Royal Naval station in that year.
- Opposite: A Cap badge to the "Royal NZ Engineers". With King Edward VII cypher to center, in gilt brass. Worn 1902 to 1907. Two copper looped lugs to back, but with no maker mark. Size 46mm by 40mm.
New Zealand Field Artillery Volunteers
D Battery (Wellington - Accepted 22 July 1867)
Strength: 1880 - 73, 1881 - 71, 1882 - 91, 1883 - 56, 1884 - 61, 1885 - 62, 1889 - 65 (53), 1890 - 57, 1891 - 47 (53), 1892 - 71, 1893 - 56, 1894 - 64, 1895 - 63, 1898 - 52, 1899 - 66, 1900 - 90, 1901 - 116, 1902 - 116, 1903 - 109 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - New Zealand Artillery
Strength: 1880 - 73, 1881 - 71, 1882 - 91, 1883 - 56, 1884 - 61, 1885 - 62, 1889 - 65 (53), 1890 - 57, 1891 - 47 (53), 1892 - 71, 1893 - 56, 1894 - 64, 1895 - 63, 1898 - 52, 1899 - 66, 1900 - 90, 1901 - 116, 1902 - 116, 1903 - 109 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - New Zealand Artillery
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- Opposite and Above: - A white metal Cap badge possibly D Battery, New Zealand Field Artillery Volunteers. Worn from 1903. Three copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
Above is a pair of white metal flaming grenade Collars, to match the Cap badge. Both have two copper looped lugs to back. Cap badge size 49mm (the tip of the crown is bent back) by 65mm. |
- Opposite: A possible two piece (sadly the image is low resolution, so detail slightly blurred) of a white metal shoulder to D Battery, New Zealand Field Artillery Volunteers. The picture showed a pair of these titles, both with D shaped copper looped lugs to back, and maker impressed to "J. R. GAUNT & SON LTD BIRM" to lower back edge (image from the internet).
In a folder of 1911 items, held at Archive NZ, is a description of Wellington's Military Districts D Battery's Cap badge as follows:
"D Battery - Gun surmounted by the word "Volunteers" & crown. Words "N.Z. Field Artillery" are used at base. Collar - Grenade"
In the remarks column it states "In use", implying that in 1911, D battery were using the above badge still.
No indication of whether the badge was Brass or White Metal, though I have never come across a Brass version of the above badge.
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
In a folder of 1911 items, held at Archive NZ, is a description of Wellington's Military Districts D Battery's Cap badge as follows:
"D Battery - Gun surmounted by the word "Volunteers" & crown. Words "N.Z. Field Artillery" are used at base. Collar - Grenade"
In the remarks column it states "In use", implying that in 1911, D battery were using the above badge still.
No indication of whether the badge was Brass or White Metal, though I have never come across a Brass version of the above badge.
(Badges - Regimental - Territorial Force, R23534556 AD1 AAYS 13-13 Archives NZ).
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- Above: Described as "Members of the 'D' Battery in military uniform at the volunteer encampment at Miramar. A gunner sits behind an artillery gun." Taken from The New Zealand Graphic and Ladies Journal, 31 December 1898, p.844 (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections NZG-18981231-0844-01).
- Opposite: A very early image of a Captain E. Pearce, of the Wellington Artillery, dated 1875. Flaming grenade Collars to his tunic, and note the sabretache with crown over field gun to front (Te Papa O.013458). |
- Oppsoite: A prize badge in Sterling Silver, presented by Captain St. Hill in 1911 to a member of D Battery. It is multi-piece with the two flaming grenades and field gun being separatly attached by rivets to back. Likely made for a "prize" belt to the unit. Marked "STERLING SILVER" to back and "LANGDON" or H.Langdon of Wellington. It has two looped lugs to back in a East/West configuration. Size 46mm by 54mm (image from the internet).
Wellington Division of Garrison Artillery Volunteers
Original company numbering of the Wellington District Garrison Artillery Volunteers were as follows:
No. 4 Company - (Wellington) Wellington Naval Artillery
No. 6 Company - (Petone) Petone Naval Artillery
These were subsequently renamed to:
No. 1 Company - Wellington Naval Artillery Volunteers - (Accepted 24th Mar 1879)
Strength: 1883 - 63, 1884 - 63, 1885 - 71, 1889 - 104 (63), 1890 - 105, 1891 - 80 (63), 1892 - 108, 1893 - 103, 1894 - 92, 1895 - 91, 1898 - 89, 1899 - 114, 1900 - 120, 1901 - 150, 1902 - 159, 1903 - 149 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - N.Z. Naval Artillery.
This corps has also gaiters and straw hats.
No. 2 Company - Petone Naval Artillery Volunteers - (Accepted 1st Jan 1883)
Strength: 1883 - 46, 1884 - 50, 1885 - 65, 1889 - 93 (63), 1890 - 67, 1891 - 65 (63), 1892 - 69, 1893 - 67, 1894 - 79, 1895 - 73, 1898 - 67, 1899 - 102, 1900 - 91, 1901 - 87, 1902 - 92, 1903 - 82 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - New Zealand Naval Artillery, in good order.
No. 3 Company - Electric Light Section (Accepted 18th Nov 1903)
- Opposite: A map indicating the location of the Garrison Artillery Positions up to 1910, around the Harbour entrance to Wellington. It also shows the Submarine Mining Depot and positions of mines if required in to be layed in a emergency. Taken from "The Path To Gallipoli, Defending New Zealand 1840-1915" - Ian McGibbon 1991
No. 4 Company - (Wellington) Wellington Naval Artillery
No. 6 Company - (Petone) Petone Naval Artillery
These were subsequently renamed to:
No. 1 Company - Wellington Naval Artillery Volunteers - (Accepted 24th Mar 1879)
Strength: 1883 - 63, 1884 - 63, 1885 - 71, 1889 - 104 (63), 1890 - 105, 1891 - 80 (63), 1892 - 108, 1893 - 103, 1894 - 92, 1895 - 91, 1898 - 89, 1899 - 114, 1900 - 120, 1901 - 150, 1902 - 159, 1903 - 149 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - N.Z. Naval Artillery.
This corps has also gaiters and straw hats.
No. 2 Company - Petone Naval Artillery Volunteers - (Accepted 1st Jan 1883)
Strength: 1883 - 46, 1884 - 50, 1885 - 65, 1889 - 93 (63), 1890 - 67, 1891 - 65 (63), 1892 - 69, 1893 - 67, 1894 - 79, 1895 - 73, 1898 - 67, 1899 - 102, 1900 - 91, 1901 - 87, 1902 - 92, 1903 - 82 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - New Zealand Naval Artillery, in good order.
No. 3 Company - Electric Light Section (Accepted 18th Nov 1903)
- Opposite: A map indicating the location of the Garrison Artillery Positions up to 1910, around the Harbour entrance to Wellington. It also shows the Submarine Mining Depot and positions of mines if required in to be layed in a emergency. Taken from "The Path To Gallipoli, Defending New Zealand 1840-1915" - Ian McGibbon 1991
New Zealand Engineer Volunteers
No. 5 Company - NZEV (Wellington Engineer Volunteers - Accepted 1st Aug 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 71, 1902 - 80, 1903 - 67 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 6 Company - NZEV (Wellington Submarine Mining Volunteers - 20th Nov 1900 - 18th Nov 1907.
Strength: 1881 - 59, 1882 - 65, 1902 - 72, 1903 - 70 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1901 - 71, 1902 - 80, 1903 - 67 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 6 Company - NZEV (Wellington Submarine Mining Volunteers - 20th Nov 1900 - 18th Nov 1907.
Strength: 1881 - 59, 1882 - 65, 1902 - 72, 1903 - 70 Officers, NCO and Men.
1st Regiment Wellington (West Coast) Mounted Rifle Volunteers
Unit composition of the 1st Regiment Wellington (West Coast) Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 1st May 1901
Headquarters: Wanganui
It was made up of:
A Squadron - Alexandra Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Wanganui - referred earlier as Alexandra Cavalry - Accepted 8th Dec 1868)
Strength: 1874 - 30, 1880 - 50, 1881 - 45, 1882 - 69, 1883 - 55, 1884 - 61, 1885 - 63, 1889 - 69 (48), 1890 - 63, 1891 - 63 (48), 1892 - 60, 1893 - 61, 1894 - 58, 1895 - 49, 1898 - 59, 1899 - 65, 1900 - 65, 1901 - 76, 1902 - 78, 1903 - 70 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Hussar uniform white helmets, with red plume in good order.
B Squadron - Wairoa Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Waverley - Accepted 10th Feb 1871)
Strength: 1890 - 67, 1891 - 66, 1892 - 60, 1893 - 49, 1894 - 53, 1895 - 51, 1898 - 61, 1899 - 58, 1900 - 100, 1901 - 93, 1902 - 96, 1903 - 80 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Blue tunics; cord trousers, of different colours; gaiters; forage-caps. The corps possesses busbies, which are said not to fit well.
C Squadron - Hawera Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 31st July 1885)
Strength: 1880 - No. 1 Coy 47, No. 2 Coy 48 (disbanded this year), 1882 - 81, 1889 - 53 (48), 1890 - 50, 1891 - 61 (48), 1892 - 64, 1893 - 66, 1894 - 61, 1895 - 73, 1898 - 69, 1899 - 69, 1900 - 97, 1901 - 99, 1902 - 86, 1903 - 65 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Kharkee (Khaki), new, without pockets; booted gaiters.
D Squadron - Stratford Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 27th March 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 93, 1902 - 95, 1903 - 90 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Squadron - Opunake Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 11th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 75, 1902 - 66, 1903 - 74 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Squadron - Waimarino Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted June 1900)
Disbanded 11th June 1907
F Squadron - Egmont Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Okato - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 55, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 73 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above Right: A Horse breastplate badge to E Squadron - Opunake Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 1st May 1901
Headquarters: Wanganui
It was made up of:
A Squadron - Alexandra Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Wanganui - referred earlier as Alexandra Cavalry - Accepted 8th Dec 1868)
Strength: 1874 - 30, 1880 - 50, 1881 - 45, 1882 - 69, 1883 - 55, 1884 - 61, 1885 - 63, 1889 - 69 (48), 1890 - 63, 1891 - 63 (48), 1892 - 60, 1893 - 61, 1894 - 58, 1895 - 49, 1898 - 59, 1899 - 65, 1900 - 65, 1901 - 76, 1902 - 78, 1903 - 70 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Hussar uniform white helmets, with red plume in good order.
B Squadron - Wairoa Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Waverley - Accepted 10th Feb 1871)
Strength: 1890 - 67, 1891 - 66, 1892 - 60, 1893 - 49, 1894 - 53, 1895 - 51, 1898 - 61, 1899 - 58, 1900 - 100, 1901 - 93, 1902 - 96, 1903 - 80 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Blue tunics; cord trousers, of different colours; gaiters; forage-caps. The corps possesses busbies, which are said not to fit well.
C Squadron - Hawera Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 31st July 1885)
Strength: 1880 - No. 1 Coy 47, No. 2 Coy 48 (disbanded this year), 1882 - 81, 1889 - 53 (48), 1890 - 50, 1891 - 61 (48), 1892 - 64, 1893 - 66, 1894 - 61, 1895 - 73, 1898 - 69, 1899 - 69, 1900 - 97, 1901 - 99, 1902 - 86, 1903 - 65 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Kharkee (Khaki), new, without pockets; booted gaiters.
D Squadron - Stratford Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 27th March 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 93, 1902 - 95, 1903 - 90 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Squadron - Opunake Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 11th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 75, 1902 - 66, 1903 - 74 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Squadron - Waimarino Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted June 1900)
Disbanded 11th June 1907
F Squadron - Egmont Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Okato - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 55, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 73 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above Right: A Horse breastplate badge to E Squadron - Opunake Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
- Above: A darkened brass, 20mm button to A Squadron - Alexandra Mounted Rifle Volunteers. Post 1902, with Kings crown to center, maker marked to "SAMUEL BROTHERS LONDON" (B Jones Collection).
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- Above: A gilt brass, 19.2mm button to B Squadron - Wairoa Mounted Rifle Volunteers. Post 1902, with Kings crown to center. Maker marked to "SAMUEL BROTHERS LONDON" (B Jones Collection).
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- Above: A darkened brass, 18mm button to B Squadron - Wairoa Mounted Rifle Volunteers. Post 1902, with Kings crown to center. Maker marked to "SAMUEL BROTHERS LONDON" (B Jones Collection).
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2nd Regiment Wellington (Wairarapa) Mounted Rifle Volunteers
Unit composition of the 2nd Regiment Wellington (Wairarapa) Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 1st May 1901
Headquarters: Wellington
It was made up of:
A Squadron - Heretangua Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Wellington, Title Heretangua Cavalry - 1st Jan 1885, transferred to the 3rd Regiment Wellington Rifle Volunteers on 16th March 1911 - Accepted 1st Jan 1885).
Strength: 1885 - 57, 1889 - 43 (43), 1890 - 39, 1891 - 62 (43), 1892 - 63, 1893 - 49, 1894 - 46, 1895 - 48, 1898 - 58, 1899 - 43, 1900 - 93, 1901 - 102, 1902 - 91, 1903 - 99 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Kharkee (Khaki) in very good order.
B Squadron - Pahiatua Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 5th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 75, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 59 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - Eketahuna Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Eketahuna - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 69, 1902 - 71, 1903 - 61 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Squadron - Masterton Mounted Rifle Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 83, 1903 - 79 Officers, NCO and Men.
Disbanded were:
B Company - Wairarapa Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Papawai - Accepted 19th Aug 1899 - only known Maori mounted unit - Disbanded 27th Sept 1906)
Strength: 1889 - 51 (48), 1891 - 47 (48), 1900 - 61, 1901 - 69, 1902 - 84, 1903 - 79 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - South Wairarapa Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Carterton - Accepted 5th April 1900 - Disbanded 15th March 1905)
Strength: 1901 - 80, 1902 - 64, 1903 - 58 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above: A rare Bridal Bose or Horse Breastplate Badge to B Company - Wairarapa Mounted Rifle Volunteers. Cast Brass, but unusually this has paint to detail, showing that these were possibly coloured. Certainly most examples I have come across have been polished back to Brass.
Founded 1st May 1901
Headquarters: Wellington
It was made up of:
A Squadron - Heretangua Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Wellington, Title Heretangua Cavalry - 1st Jan 1885, transferred to the 3rd Regiment Wellington Rifle Volunteers on 16th March 1911 - Accepted 1st Jan 1885).
Strength: 1885 - 57, 1889 - 43 (43), 1890 - 39, 1891 - 62 (43), 1892 - 63, 1893 - 49, 1894 - 46, 1895 - 48, 1898 - 58, 1899 - 43, 1900 - 93, 1901 - 102, 1902 - 91, 1903 - 99 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Kharkee (Khaki) in very good order.
B Squadron - Pahiatua Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 5th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 75, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 59 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - Eketahuna Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Eketahuna - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 69, 1902 - 71, 1903 - 61 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Squadron - Masterton Mounted Rifle Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 83, 1903 - 79 Officers, NCO and Men.
Disbanded were:
B Company - Wairarapa Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Papawai - Accepted 19th Aug 1899 - only known Maori mounted unit - Disbanded 27th Sept 1906)
Strength: 1889 - 51 (48), 1891 - 47 (48), 1900 - 61, 1901 - 69, 1902 - 84, 1903 - 79 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - South Wairarapa Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Carterton - Accepted 5th April 1900 - Disbanded 15th March 1905)
Strength: 1901 - 80, 1902 - 64, 1903 - 58 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above: A rare Bridal Bose or Horse Breastplate Badge to B Company - Wairarapa Mounted Rifle Volunteers. Cast Brass, but unusually this has paint to detail, showing that these were possibly coloured. Certainly most examples I have come across have been polished back to Brass.
- Above: A gilt brass Hat badge to A Squadron - Heretangua Mounted Rifle Volunteers (image from the internet).
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- Above: A pair of 2 piece, brass shoulder titles to A Squadron - Heretangua Mounted Rifle Volunteers. Both have a "A" sweated to the top of "2.WMR". Both have two D shaped copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A early Horse Breastplate Badge to A Squadron - Heretangua Mounted Infantry Volunteers.
The Heretangua Mounted Infantry Volunteers were gazetted on the 1st of Jan 1885. The title "Infantry" or "Mounted Rifles" seems to have been used interchangeably over the years, with some papers referring to the unit as Infantry, while others referred to them as Mounted Rifles. Certainly after 1900, the unit was more readily referred to as the Heretangua Mounted Rifle Volunteers. |
- Above: A Horse Breastplate to A Squadron - Heretangua Mounted Rifle Volunteers, still on its leather backing. These were attached with a two straps at the top and one at the bottom, which looped around the Saddle strap. The ends of the three straps can just be seen, were they have been cut/removed.
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- Above: A gilt brass, QVC crown, 18.5mm button to A Squadron - Heretangua Mounted Infantry Volunteers. Maker marked to back to "Hobson & Son" (B Jones Collection).
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- Above: A gilt brass 25mm button to A Squadron - Heretangua Mounted Rifle Volunteers. Maker marked to back to "J NICKLIN & Co, BIRMINGHAM"
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- Above: A pair of 12mm Brass "W"'s, worn by some Volunteer units to indicate their "Wellington Military District" on their shoulder straps. A example being a NCO's tunic D Squadron - Masterton Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
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3rd Regiment Wellington (Manawatu) Mounted Rifle Volunteers
Unit composition of the 3rd Regiment Wellington (Manawatu) Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 1st May 1901
Headquarters: Palmerston North
It was made up of:
A Squadron - Manawatu Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Palmerston North - Accepted 28th May 1891).
Strength: 1891 - 48, 1892 - 55, 1893 - 43, 1894 - 51, 1895 - 47, 1898 - 60, 1899 - 60, 1900 - 72, 1901 - 67, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 51, 1905 - 31 (from roll), 1910 - 74 (from roll), 1911 - 49 (from roll) Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Kharkee (Khaki).
B Squadron - Hunterville Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 80, 1902 - 68, 1903 - 72 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - Fielding Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 27th July 1901)
Strength: 1902 - 57, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
Disbanded were:
B Company - Horowhenua Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Levin - Accepted 11th April 1900 - Disbanded 10th Oct 1905)
Strength: 1901 - 88, 1902 - 70, 1903 - 68 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Company - Otaki Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 11th April 1900 - Disbanded 18th Jan 1905)
Strength: 1901 - 69, 1902 - 72, 1903 - 60 Officers, NCO and Men.
Founded 1st May 1901
Headquarters: Palmerston North
It was made up of:
A Squadron - Manawatu Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Palmerston North - Accepted 28th May 1891).
Strength: 1891 - 48, 1892 - 55, 1893 - 43, 1894 - 51, 1895 - 47, 1898 - 60, 1899 - 60, 1900 - 72, 1901 - 67, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 51, 1905 - 31 (from roll), 1910 - 74 (from roll), 1911 - 49 (from roll) Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Kharkee (Khaki).
B Squadron - Hunterville Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 80, 1902 - 68, 1903 - 72 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - Fielding Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 27th July 1901)
Strength: 1902 - 57, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
Disbanded were:
B Company - Horowhenua Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Levin - Accepted 11th April 1900 - Disbanded 10th Oct 1905)
Strength: 1901 - 88, 1902 - 70, 1903 - 68 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Company - Otaki Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 11th April 1900 - Disbanded 18th Jan 1905)
Strength: 1901 - 69, 1902 - 72, 1903 - 60 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above: A hat badges to A Squadron - Manawatu Mounted Rifle Volunteers. Darkened brass, with a maker plaque of "J R GAUNT LONDON". Two looped lugs, with a size of 50mm by 56mm
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- Above: A hat badges to A Squadron - Manawatu Mounted Rifle Volunteers. Gilt brass, with no maker to back. Two copper looped lugs with size of 50mm to 56mm.
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- Opposite & Above: A Horse Breastplate to A Squadron - Manawatu Mounted Rifle Volunteers. Found in a shed, this Breastplate is just missing the top two straps.
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- Above: A view of the side of a horse bit to A Squadron - Manawatu Mounted Rifle Volunteers. It shows one of two bose, which are on either side (Laurie Osborne collection).
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4th Regiment Wellington (East Coast) Mounted Rifle Volunteers
Unit composition of the 4th Regiment Wellington (East Coast) Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 1st May 1901
Headquarters: Napier
It was made up of:
A Squadron - East Coast Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Gisborne - Accepted 6th Feb 1900).
Strength: 1893 - 46, 1900 - 82, 1901 - 69, 1902 - 75, 1903 - 72 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Squadron - Hawke's Bay Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Hastings - Accepted 11th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 88, 1902 - 70, 1903 - 61 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - Huramua Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Wairoa, Hawke's Bay - Accepted 10th Sept 1900).
Strength: 1902 - 75, 1903 - 70 Officers, NCO and Men.
Disbanded were:
B Company - Ruahine Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Dannevirke - Accepted 11th April 1900 - Disbanded 16th Dec 1905)
Strength: 1901 - 82, 1902 - 77, 1903 - 66 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - Ahuriri Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Napier - Accepted 8th May 1900 - Disbanded 21st Sept 1904)
Strength: 1901 - 73, 1902 - 75, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above: A white metal pouch badge to A Squadron - East Coast Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Gisborne). Two loops to back, with no maker mark.
Founded 1st May 1901
Headquarters: Napier
It was made up of:
A Squadron - East Coast Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Gisborne - Accepted 6th Feb 1900).
Strength: 1893 - 46, 1900 - 82, 1901 - 69, 1902 - 75, 1903 - 72 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Squadron - Hawke's Bay Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Hastings - Accepted 11th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 88, 1902 - 70, 1903 - 61 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - Huramua Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Wairoa, Hawke's Bay - Accepted 10th Sept 1900).
Strength: 1902 - 75, 1903 - 70 Officers, NCO and Men.
Disbanded were:
B Company - Ruahine Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Dannevirke - Accepted 11th April 1900 - Disbanded 16th Dec 1905)
Strength: 1901 - 82, 1902 - 77, 1903 - 66 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - Ahuriri Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Napier - Accepted 8th May 1900 - Disbanded 21st Sept 1904)
Strength: 1901 - 73, 1902 - 75, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above: A white metal pouch badge to A Squadron - East Coast Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Gisborne). Two loops to back, with no maker mark.
1st Battalion Wellington Rifle Volunteers
Unit composition of the 1st Battalion Wellington Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 9th of July 1898.
Headquarters: Wellington
A Company - Wellington City Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 29th Oct 1867)
Strength: 1880 - 87, 1881 - 83, 1882 - 65, 1883 - 56, 1884 - 56, 1885 - 65, 1889 - 75 (63), 1890 - 64, 1891 - 72 (63), 1892 - 69, 1893 - 73, 1894 - 65, 1895 - 69, 1898 - 67, 1899 - 69, 1900 - 68, 1901 - 70, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 53 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; black helmets.
B Company - Wellington Guards Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 14th July 1879)
Strength: 1880 - 103, 1881 - 97, 1882 - 59, 1883 - 51, 1884 - 52, 1885 - 53, 1889 - 69 (63), 1890 - 65, 1891 - 56 (63), 1892 - 64, 1893 - 65, 1894 - 65, 1895 - 65, 1898 - 64, 1899 - 71, 1900 - 63, 1901 - 69, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 51 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; bad.
C Company - Kelburne Rifle Volunteers (Wellington - Accepted 25th March 1897)
Strength: 1898 - 64, 1899 - 63, 1900 - 65, 1901 - 65, 1902 - 68, 1903 - 57 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - Civil Service Rifle Volunteers (Wellington - Accepted 19th May 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 73, 1900 - 67, 1901 - 61, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 46 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Company - Wellington Post and Telegraph Volunteers (Accepted 21st May 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 65, 1900 - 67, 1901 - 70, 1902 - 69, 1903 - 71 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - College Rifle Volunteers (Wellington - Accepted 30th May 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 69, 1900 - 64, 1901 - 70, 1902 - 74, 1903 - 66 Officers, NCO and Men.
G Company - Zealandia Rifle Volunteers (Wellington - Accepted 30th May 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 61, 1900 - 76, 1901 - 74, 1902 - 68, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
H Company - Wellington Highland Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 11th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 64, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 61 Officers, NCO and Men.
I Company - Hutt Valley Rifle Volunteers (Lower Hutt) - Accepted 24th Sept 1904
J Company - Johnsonville Rifle Volunteers (Johnsonville) - Accepted 13th May 1907
- Above: A gilt brass, 2 piece, Helmet Plate to the 1st Battalion, Wellington Rifle Volunteers. Kings Crown, so post 1902, with two copper looped lugs. There doesn't appear to be a third behind the crown. No maker mark.
Founded 9th of July 1898.
Headquarters: Wellington
A Company - Wellington City Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 29th Oct 1867)
Strength: 1880 - 87, 1881 - 83, 1882 - 65, 1883 - 56, 1884 - 56, 1885 - 65, 1889 - 75 (63), 1890 - 64, 1891 - 72 (63), 1892 - 69, 1893 - 73, 1894 - 65, 1895 - 69, 1898 - 67, 1899 - 69, 1900 - 68, 1901 - 70, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 53 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; black helmets.
B Company - Wellington Guards Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 14th July 1879)
Strength: 1880 - 103, 1881 - 97, 1882 - 59, 1883 - 51, 1884 - 52, 1885 - 53, 1889 - 69 (63), 1890 - 65, 1891 - 56 (63), 1892 - 64, 1893 - 65, 1894 - 65, 1895 - 65, 1898 - 64, 1899 - 71, 1900 - 63, 1901 - 69, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 51 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; bad.
C Company - Kelburne Rifle Volunteers (Wellington - Accepted 25th March 1897)
Strength: 1898 - 64, 1899 - 63, 1900 - 65, 1901 - 65, 1902 - 68, 1903 - 57 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - Civil Service Rifle Volunteers (Wellington - Accepted 19th May 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 73, 1900 - 67, 1901 - 61, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 46 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Company - Wellington Post and Telegraph Volunteers (Accepted 21st May 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 65, 1900 - 67, 1901 - 70, 1902 - 69, 1903 - 71 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - College Rifle Volunteers (Wellington - Accepted 30th May 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 69, 1900 - 64, 1901 - 70, 1902 - 74, 1903 - 66 Officers, NCO and Men.
G Company - Zealandia Rifle Volunteers (Wellington - Accepted 30th May 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 61, 1900 - 76, 1901 - 74, 1902 - 68, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
H Company - Wellington Highland Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 11th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 64, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 61 Officers, NCO and Men.
I Company - Hutt Valley Rifle Volunteers (Lower Hutt) - Accepted 24th Sept 1904
J Company - Johnsonville Rifle Volunteers (Johnsonville) - Accepted 13th May 1907
- Above: A gilt brass, 2 piece, Helmet Plate to the 1st Battalion, Wellington Rifle Volunteers. Kings Crown, so post 1902, with two copper looped lugs. There doesn't appear to be a third behind the crown. No maker mark.
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- Above Left: A white metal, 1881 patterned, 25mm button to B Company - Wellington Guards Rifle Volunteers. Maker marked to back to "HOBSON & SONS, 37 & 38 WINDMILL St, HAYMARKET, LONDON". Brass backed, with brass fixed shank. Note the Queen Victoria Crown.
- Above Right: A white metal, 1881 patterned, 19mm button to B Company - Wellington Guards Rifle Volunteers. Maker marked to back to "HOBSON & SONS, LONDON". Brass backed, with brass fixed shank. Note the Queen Victoria Crown. |
- Above: A Cap badge to B Company - Wellington Guards Rifle Volunteers. White metal, but just dirty/yellow with age.
- Above: A post 1902, Kings Crown, white metal, 26mm button to B Company - Wellington Guards Rifle Volunteers. Maker marked to back to "J R GAUNT BIRMINGHAM". Fixed shank to back.
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- Above: A post 1902, Kings Crown, white metal, 17mm button to B Company - Wellington Guards Rifle Volunteers. Maker marked to back to "EXTRA QUALITY". Fixed shank to back.
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- Above: A nice bar brooch which has two buttons mounted on it. Left is a 25mm, white metal button to the Wellington Guards Rifle Volunteers. With Queens crown, it is maker marked to "HOBSON & SONS, 37 & 38 WINDMILL St, HAYMARKET, LONDON". The right button, is a British General Service button, with kings crown. 24mm in gilt brass, which has darkened with time. No maker mark to back. The brass bar has a brooch fitting to back, which is missing pin and hook. A record of service in the Guards and maybe Boer War or WW1?
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- Above: A large black painted, 25mm, white metal button to 1st Wellington Rifle Battalion - New Zealand. Fixed shank and introduced in 1898. Maker marked to "HOBSON & SONS, LEXINGTON ST, LONDON" (B Jones Collection)
- Opposite: A rare image of Private William Francis Hornig in the uniform of G Company - Zealandia Rifle Volunteers who were based in Wellington. He is wearing a side hat with a separate gilt brass "NZ" and "Bugle Horn" badge. On his collars are two gilt brass fern leaf badges with "NZ" to center. Both tunic and his side hat have the 4 Stars "NEW ZEALAND VOLUNTEERS" buttons. There is no metal insignia to his shoulder boards, so its likely that there is a embroidered unit title to them. William saw service in both the Boar War (1901 - service number 3376 - 6th NZ Contingent ) and during WW1 (85088 - B Company, 44th Reinforcements). Thankfully his WW1 service was eventually just in New Zealand, as the war finished as he completed his training. I wonder if he was called up late in WW1 due to being married and having one child at the time. New Zealand in early 1918 called up all married men, and then later in that year, married men with children (image from Auckland Cenotaph). |
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- Above: A white metal, single piece Cap badge to the British Seaforth Highlanders. Also worn on the side of the glengarry by H Company - Wellington Highland Rifle Volunteers. This one is a 3 copper lugged version, but they also just come with two. No maker mark and size 55mm by 61mm. Also worn by Australian and Canadian Regiments. Motto "CUIDICH’N RIGH" (Help the King).
- Opposite: An image of a G P Davidson, dated circa 1920, in Wellington, by Berry & Co. H Company existed from 1900 to 1911, so either the date is incorrect or he wore his uniform later. He has New Zealand 4 star Volunteer buttons to his jacket of Scarlet, and wears the McKenzie tartan. The below badges are to his collar and Sporran (Te Papa B.044260). |
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- Above and Above Right: A matching pair sets of Collar badges worn by both the British Seaforth Highlanders and H Company - Wellington Highland Rifle Volunteers. All are gilt brass, with two looped lugs to the Elephant (in a East/West configuration) and three the "F" cypher of HRH Frederick (the late Duke of York) and the motto "CABER FEIDH" (Deers Antlers). No makers marks and size of Elephant Collar 23mm by 35mm, while Cypher Collar is 25.5mm by 43mm.
- Opposite: A gilt brass (toned!) Sporran badge worn by the Seaforth Highlanders, H Company - Wellington Highland Rifle Volunters and the Pictou Highlanders of Canada. Two piece, there are two lugs to the banner, while 3 lugs to the Stag. No maker mark and size of stag 42mm by 44mm, banner 17mm (5.5mm wide) by 45mm. |
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2nd Battalion Wellington (West Coast) Rifle Volunteers
Unit composition of the 2nd Battalion Wellington (West Coast) Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 1st May 1901.
Headquarters: Wanganui
A Company - Royal Rifle Volunteers (Marton - Accepted 28th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1874 - 43, 1880 - 60, 1881 - 64, 1882 - 68, 1883 - 37, 1884 - 57, 1885 - 64, 1889 - 68 (48), 1890 - 63, 1891 - 56, 1892 - 57, 1893 - 53, 1894 - 58, 1895 - 58, 1898 - 58, 1899 - 60, 1900 - 56, 1901 - 62, 1902 - 55, 1903 - 47 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; black helmets. The uniform was old and much worn; some men in serges, one or two in band-tunics and band-trousers. The corps has been saving money to buy new uniforms, and is now in position to do so.
B Company - Wanganui Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 6th Dec 1870)
Strength: 1874 - 58, 1880 - 110, 1881 - 102, 1882 - 83, 1883 - 63, 1884 - 58, 1885 - 63, 1889 - 51 (48), 1890 - 51, 1891 - 54 (48), 1892 - 65, 1893 - 64, 1894 - 63, 1895 - 66, 1898 - 65, 1899 - 67, 1900 - 61, 1901 - 66, 1902 - 59, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Kharkee (Khaki)), new; officers and sergeants with pockets, remainder without. It is to be generally noted that the collars of the kharkee frocks are not nearly enough stiffened, and soon present very draggled appearance; also, that the hooks for supporting the belts are rarely sewn on in the proper place or manner: the bottom of the hook should be on the level of the bottom button of the frock, which should be low enough to show under the waistbelt when it is round the man's waist.
C Company - Palmerston North Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 2nd Jan 1879)
Strength: 1880 - 73, 1881 - 62, 1882 - 52, 1883 - 36, 1884 - 54, 1885 - 47, 1889 - 54 (48), 1890 - 52, 1891 - 58 (48), 1892 - 59, 1893 - 59, 1894 - 63, 1895 - 58, 1898 - 66, 1899 - 72, 1900 - 68, 1901 - 67, 1902 - 52, 1903 - 59 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Kharkee (Khaki), with pockets and helmets officers in forage-caps.
D Company - Manchester Rifle Volunteers (Fielding - Accepted 11th June 1879)
Strength: 1880 - 67, 1881 - 61, 1882 - 82, 1883 - 36, 1884 - 47, 1885 - 78, 1889 - 51 (48), 1890 - 49, 1891 - 48 (48), 1892 - 50, 1893 - 51, 1894 - 54, 1895 - 57, 1898 - 55, 1899 - 50, 1900 - 65, 1901 - 65, 1902 - 51, 1903 - 45 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Kharkee (Khaki); officers only with pockets.
E Company - Wanganui Guards Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 25th June 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 65, 1900 - 57, 1901 - 65, 1902 - 46, 1903 - 50 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - Wanganui Highland Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 11th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 67, 1902 - 59, 1903 - 61 Officers, NCO and Men.
G Company - Palmerston Guards Rifle Volunteers (Palmerston North - Accepted 10th Sept 1900).
Strength: 1901 - 55, 1902 - 58, 1903 - 50 Officers, NCO and Men.
H Company - Irish Rifle Volunteers (Wanganui - Accepted 22nd Oct 1901)
Strength: 1902 - 58, 1903 - 60 Officers, NCO and Men.
Disbanded units:
G Company - Foxton Rifle Volunteers - (Accepted 10th Sept 1900 - Disbanded 21st Sept 1904)
Strength: 1901 - 59, 1902 - 61, 1903 - 65 Officers, NCO and Men.
I Company - Castlecliff Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th June 1901 - Disbanded 27th July 1905)
Strength: 1902 - 59, 1903 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above: A gilt brass, single piece, Helmet plate to the 2nd Battalion Wellington (West Coast) Rifle Volunteers. Motto: Acer In Armis (Strong in Arms).
Founded 1st May 1901.
Headquarters: Wanganui
A Company - Royal Rifle Volunteers (Marton - Accepted 28th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1874 - 43, 1880 - 60, 1881 - 64, 1882 - 68, 1883 - 37, 1884 - 57, 1885 - 64, 1889 - 68 (48), 1890 - 63, 1891 - 56, 1892 - 57, 1893 - 53, 1894 - 58, 1895 - 58, 1898 - 58, 1899 - 60, 1900 - 56, 1901 - 62, 1902 - 55, 1903 - 47 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; black helmets. The uniform was old and much worn; some men in serges, one or two in band-tunics and band-trousers. The corps has been saving money to buy new uniforms, and is now in position to do so.
B Company - Wanganui Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 6th Dec 1870)
Strength: 1874 - 58, 1880 - 110, 1881 - 102, 1882 - 83, 1883 - 63, 1884 - 58, 1885 - 63, 1889 - 51 (48), 1890 - 51, 1891 - 54 (48), 1892 - 65, 1893 - 64, 1894 - 63, 1895 - 66, 1898 - 65, 1899 - 67, 1900 - 61, 1901 - 66, 1902 - 59, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Kharkee (Khaki)), new; officers and sergeants with pockets, remainder without. It is to be generally noted that the collars of the kharkee frocks are not nearly enough stiffened, and soon present very draggled appearance; also, that the hooks for supporting the belts are rarely sewn on in the proper place or manner: the bottom of the hook should be on the level of the bottom button of the frock, which should be low enough to show under the waistbelt when it is round the man's waist.
C Company - Palmerston North Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 2nd Jan 1879)
Strength: 1880 - 73, 1881 - 62, 1882 - 52, 1883 - 36, 1884 - 54, 1885 - 47, 1889 - 54 (48), 1890 - 52, 1891 - 58 (48), 1892 - 59, 1893 - 59, 1894 - 63, 1895 - 58, 1898 - 66, 1899 - 72, 1900 - 68, 1901 - 67, 1902 - 52, 1903 - 59 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Kharkee (Khaki), with pockets and helmets officers in forage-caps.
D Company - Manchester Rifle Volunteers (Fielding - Accepted 11th June 1879)
Strength: 1880 - 67, 1881 - 61, 1882 - 82, 1883 - 36, 1884 - 47, 1885 - 78, 1889 - 51 (48), 1890 - 49, 1891 - 48 (48), 1892 - 50, 1893 - 51, 1894 - 54, 1895 - 57, 1898 - 55, 1899 - 50, 1900 - 65, 1901 - 65, 1902 - 51, 1903 - 45 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Kharkee (Khaki); officers only with pockets.
E Company - Wanganui Guards Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 25th June 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 65, 1900 - 57, 1901 - 65, 1902 - 46, 1903 - 50 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - Wanganui Highland Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 11th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 67, 1902 - 59, 1903 - 61 Officers, NCO and Men.
G Company - Palmerston Guards Rifle Volunteers (Palmerston North - Accepted 10th Sept 1900).
Strength: 1901 - 55, 1902 - 58, 1903 - 50 Officers, NCO and Men.
H Company - Irish Rifle Volunteers (Wanganui - Accepted 22nd Oct 1901)
Strength: 1902 - 58, 1903 - 60 Officers, NCO and Men.
Disbanded units:
G Company - Foxton Rifle Volunteers - (Accepted 10th Sept 1900 - Disbanded 21st Sept 1904)
Strength: 1901 - 59, 1902 - 61, 1903 - 65 Officers, NCO and Men.
I Company - Castlecliff Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th June 1901 - Disbanded 27th July 1905)
Strength: 1902 - 59, 1903 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above: A gilt brass, single piece, Helmet plate to the 2nd Battalion Wellington (West Coast) Rifle Volunteers. Motto: Acer In Armis (Strong in Arms).
- Above: A pair of opposing Collar badges to the Wellington Volunteer Rifles. These were also adopted, post 1911 by the 5th (Wellington) Infantry Regiment. Both have D shaped copper looped lugs to back. The above right is maker marked to "J R Gaunt London".
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- Above Bottom Row: A pair of single piece, gilt brass shoulder titles to the 2nd Battalion Wellington (West Coast) Rifle Volunteers. Two brass, hex type lugs to back, but they do also come with copper looped lugs. No maker mark.
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- Above: A pre-1900 19mm gilt brass button to F Company - Wanganui Highland Rifle Volunteers. Maker marked to back to "HOBSON & SONS, LEXINGTON".
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- Above: A post-1900 24.7mm white metal button to F Company - Wanganui Highland Rifle Volunteers. Maker marked to back to "THE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY".
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- Above: A post-1900 17mm white metal button to F Company - Wanganui Highland Rifle Volunteers. No maker mark.
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- Above and Opposite: A pre 1911 dress tunic to the 2nd Battalion, Wellington (West Coast) Rifle Volunteers.
Red Wool material, piped in white, with buff/white collar facing and cuffs. The buttons are the 1895 brass New Zealand Volunteer pattern, and Collars are to the Wellington Rifle Volunteers. There is no maker mark inside, but remnants of a paper label, glued to back, which has now long perished/washed away. The black marks to right side/front are shellac, as the tunic was found, |
(continued) wrapped around a pair of boots. It is also missing its bottom trim.
The belt, is a 1888 Slade Wallace pattern, white blanco, with a generic Queen Victorian Crown and Lion buckle. |
- Above: A superb dated photograph in frame and behind glass (hence the reflection) of the Officers and NCO's of C Coy, Palmerston North Rifle Volunteers in 1910 (it is written to back with date). All are wearing the above 2nd Battalion, Wellington (West Coast) Rifle Volunteers Helmet Plate on their White "Home Service" helmets, but the 3 Officers, seated in the center, are multi-piece, with dark backing material to their Helmet plate, and which shows in the photograph.
The two Corporals and Bugler to center, seated at the front, wear the above pictured shoulder boards with "2" over "WELLINGTON".
The two Corporals and Bugler to center, seated at the front, wear the above pictured shoulder boards with "2" over "WELLINGTON".
3rd Battalion Wellington (East Coast) Rifle Volunteers
Unit composition of the 3rd Battalion Wellington (East Coast) Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 1st of May 1901.
Headquarters: Napier
A Company - Napier Guards Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 23rd Aug 1869)
Strength: 1898 - 52, 1899 - 71, 1900 - 72, 1901 - 77, 1902 - 68, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Company - Napier Rifle Volunteers (prior to 1880 they were known as Napier Engineer Volunteers - Accepted 5th March 1878)
Strength: 1880 - 72, 1881 - 57, 1882 - 75, 1883 - 60, 1884 - 63, 1885 - 57, 1889 - 48 (48), 1890 - 54, 1891 - 48 (48), 1892 - 60, 1893 - 48, 1894 - 51, 1895 - 50, 1898 - 52, 1899 - 65, 1900 - 66, 1901 - 62, 1902 - 54, 1903 - 57 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Kharkee.
C Company - Hastings Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 6th June 1887)
Strength: 1893 - 53, 1889 - 58 (48), 1890 - 47, 1891 - 53 (48), 1892 - 53, 1893 - 48, 1894 - 48, 1895 - 45, 1898 - 44, 1899 - 47, 1900 - 72, 1901 - 60, 1902 - 58, 1903 - 59 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - Waipawa Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 16th April 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 61, 1900 - 60, 1901 - 57, 1902 - 39, 1903 - 54 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Company - Ranfurly Rifle Volunteers (Napier - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 68, 1902 - 53, 1903 - 53 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - Gisborne Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 63, 1902 - 59, 1903 - 58 Officers, NCO and Men.
Reserve Corps - Formed 26th Oct 1907
Founded 1st of May 1901.
Headquarters: Napier
A Company - Napier Guards Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 23rd Aug 1869)
Strength: 1898 - 52, 1899 - 71, 1900 - 72, 1901 - 77, 1902 - 68, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Company - Napier Rifle Volunteers (prior to 1880 they were known as Napier Engineer Volunteers - Accepted 5th March 1878)
Strength: 1880 - 72, 1881 - 57, 1882 - 75, 1883 - 60, 1884 - 63, 1885 - 57, 1889 - 48 (48), 1890 - 54, 1891 - 48 (48), 1892 - 60, 1893 - 48, 1894 - 51, 1895 - 50, 1898 - 52, 1899 - 65, 1900 - 66, 1901 - 62, 1902 - 54, 1903 - 57 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Kharkee.
C Company - Hastings Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 6th June 1887)
Strength: 1893 - 53, 1889 - 58 (48), 1890 - 47, 1891 - 53 (48), 1892 - 53, 1893 - 48, 1894 - 48, 1895 - 45, 1898 - 44, 1899 - 47, 1900 - 72, 1901 - 60, 1902 - 58, 1903 - 59 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - Waipawa Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 16th April 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 61, 1900 - 60, 1901 - 57, 1902 - 39, 1903 - 54 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Company - Ranfurly Rifle Volunteers (Napier - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 68, 1902 - 53, 1903 - 53 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - Gisborne Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 63, 1902 - 59, 1903 - 58 Officers, NCO and Men.
Reserve Corps - Formed 26th Oct 1907
- Above: A multi piece, Officers gilt brass Helmet plate to the 3rd Battalion Wellington (East Coast) Rifle Volunteers. Kings crown, and post 1902 (Image from the internet).
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- Above: A single piece, Other Ranks, gilt brass Helmet plate to the 3rd Battalion Wellington (East Coast) Rifle Volunteers. Kings crown, and post 1902.
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- Above: A single piece, gilt brass Collar badge to B Company - Napier Rifle Volunteers. Two copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark. Size 34.5mm by 28mm (badge is curved).
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4th Battalion Wellington (Taranaki) Rifle Volunteers
Unit composition of the 4th Battalion Wellington (Taranaki) Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 1st of May 1901.
Headquarters: New Plymouth
A Company - Taranaki Rifle Volunteers (New Plymouth - Accepted 23rd March 1876)
Strength: 1885 - 50, 1889 - 70 (48), 1890 - 57, 1891 - 63 (48), 1892 - 71, 1893 - 58, 1894 - 59, 1895 - 62, 1898 - 60, 1899 - 66, 1900 - 67, 1901 - 71, 1902 - 59, 1903 - 68 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Kharkee (Khaki), new, with breast-pockets.
B Company - Taranaki Guards Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 22nd Feb 1900)
Strength: 1900 - 63, 1901 - 66, 1902 - 54, 1903 - 66 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Company - Patea Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 9th June 1879 & 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1874 - 17, 1882 - 97, 1883 - 54, 1884 - 36, 1885 - 51, 1901 - 60, 1902 - 56, 1903 - 60 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - Inglewood Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1885 - 55, 1901 - 64, 1902 - 49, 1903 - 48 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Company - Eltham Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 69, 1902 - 59, 1903 - 67 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - Hawera Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 31st July 1885 & 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 65, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 67 Officers, NCO and Men.
G Company - Stratford Rifle Volunteers (Disbanded 1882 - Accepted 12th Nov 1900)
Strength: 1882 - 89, 1901 - 62, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
H Company - Waitara Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1880 - 53, 1901 - 64, 1902 - 52, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above: A three piece brass badge set worn at least by A Company - Taranaki Rifle Volunteers. This set was worn by a number of NZ Volunteer Rifle and Mounted Rifle units. Note the Bugle is hung from a ribbon bow. Many British Rifle unit badges have a corded bow.
Founded 1st of May 1901.
Headquarters: New Plymouth
A Company - Taranaki Rifle Volunteers (New Plymouth - Accepted 23rd March 1876)
Strength: 1885 - 50, 1889 - 70 (48), 1890 - 57, 1891 - 63 (48), 1892 - 71, 1893 - 58, 1894 - 59, 1895 - 62, 1898 - 60, 1899 - 66, 1900 - 67, 1901 - 71, 1902 - 59, 1903 - 68 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Kharkee (Khaki), new, with breast-pockets.
B Company - Taranaki Guards Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 22nd Feb 1900)
Strength: 1900 - 63, 1901 - 66, 1902 - 54, 1903 - 66 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Company - Patea Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 9th June 1879 & 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1874 - 17, 1882 - 97, 1883 - 54, 1884 - 36, 1885 - 51, 1901 - 60, 1902 - 56, 1903 - 60 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - Inglewood Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1885 - 55, 1901 - 64, 1902 - 49, 1903 - 48 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Company - Eltham Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 69, 1902 - 59, 1903 - 67 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - Hawera Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 31st July 1885 & 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 65, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 67 Officers, NCO and Men.
G Company - Stratford Rifle Volunteers (Disbanded 1882 - Accepted 12th Nov 1900)
Strength: 1882 - 89, 1901 - 62, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
H Company - Waitara Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1880 - 53, 1901 - 64, 1902 - 52, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above: A three piece brass badge set worn at least by A Company - Taranaki Rifle Volunteers. This set was worn by a number of NZ Volunteer Rifle and Mounted Rifle units. Note the Bugle is hung from a ribbon bow. Many British Rifle unit badges have a corded bow.
5th Battalion Wellington (Center or Ruahine) Rifle Volunteers
Unit composition of the 5th Battalion Wellington (Center or Ruahine) Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 1st of May 1901.
Headquarters: Woodville
A Company - Woodville Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 21st Jan 1885 - Disbanded 4th July 1889 - Accepted 15th June 1896)
Strength: 1885 - 50, 1889 - 36 (48), 1898 - 51, 1899 - 64, 1900 - 69, 1901 - 61, 1902 - 56, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Company - Dannevirke Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 16th April 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 64, 1900 - 60, 1901 - 69, 1902 - 70, 1903 - 70 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Company - Masterton Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 4th April 1879 - Disbanded 1894 - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1880 - 60, 1881 - 51, 1882 - 59, 1883 - 53, 1884 - 52, 1885 - 54, 1889 - 54 (48), 1890 - 59, 1891 - 53 (48), 1892 - 53, 1893 - 42, 1901 - 50, 1902 - 69, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; helmets.
D Company - Pahiatua Rifle Volunteers
Strength: 1901 - 73, 1902 - 59, 1903 - 57 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Company - Greytown Rifle Volunteers (Greytown North - Accepted 20th June 1878 & 1st Jan 1884 - Disbanded 1891 - Accepted 22nd Oct 1900)
Strength: 1880 - 47, 1881 - 53, 1882 - 75, 1883 - 39, 1884 - 38, 1885 - 51, 1889 - 48 (48), 1890 - 48 (48), 1901 - 56, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - Carterton Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 14th April 1879 - Disbanded 25th July 1889 - Reformed 31st of Oct 1907)
Strength: 1880 - 60, 1881 - 51, 1882 - 58, 1883 - 40, 1884 - 42, 1885 - 44, 1889 - 45 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
G Company - Ashhurst Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 8th Aug 1902)
Strength: 1903 - 51 Officers, NCO and Men.
Disbanded were:
F Company - Union Rifle Volunteers (Ormondville - Accepted 10th Sept 1900 - Disbanded 20 Feb 1905)
Strength: 1874 - 31, 1901 - 62, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 51 Officers, NCO and Men.
G Company - Ashhurst Rifle Volunteers - 13th of June 1907
Some collectors would argue that the Sun Hat badge, worn by the 17th (Ruahine) Infantry Regiment, which was formed in early 1914 (and given their badges in Egypt), is in fact a Volunteer Helmet plate to this earlier unit. Certainly there are pictures of the Helmet Plate being worn in WW1, but nothing earlier (yet).
Founded 1st of May 1901.
Headquarters: Woodville
A Company - Woodville Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 21st Jan 1885 - Disbanded 4th July 1889 - Accepted 15th June 1896)
Strength: 1885 - 50, 1889 - 36 (48), 1898 - 51, 1899 - 64, 1900 - 69, 1901 - 61, 1902 - 56, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Company - Dannevirke Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 16th April 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 64, 1900 - 60, 1901 - 69, 1902 - 70, 1903 - 70 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Company - Masterton Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 4th April 1879 - Disbanded 1894 - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1880 - 60, 1881 - 51, 1882 - 59, 1883 - 53, 1884 - 52, 1885 - 54, 1889 - 54 (48), 1890 - 59, 1891 - 53 (48), 1892 - 53, 1893 - 42, 1901 - 50, 1902 - 69, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; helmets.
D Company - Pahiatua Rifle Volunteers
Strength: 1901 - 73, 1902 - 59, 1903 - 57 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Company - Greytown Rifle Volunteers (Greytown North - Accepted 20th June 1878 & 1st Jan 1884 - Disbanded 1891 - Accepted 22nd Oct 1900)
Strength: 1880 - 47, 1881 - 53, 1882 - 75, 1883 - 39, 1884 - 38, 1885 - 51, 1889 - 48 (48), 1890 - 48 (48), 1901 - 56, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - Carterton Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 14th April 1879 - Disbanded 25th July 1889 - Reformed 31st of Oct 1907)
Strength: 1880 - 60, 1881 - 51, 1882 - 58, 1883 - 40, 1884 - 42, 1885 - 44, 1889 - 45 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
G Company - Ashhurst Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 8th Aug 1902)
Strength: 1903 - 51 Officers, NCO and Men.
Disbanded were:
F Company - Union Rifle Volunteers (Ormondville - Accepted 10th Sept 1900 - Disbanded 20 Feb 1905)
Strength: 1874 - 31, 1901 - 62, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 51 Officers, NCO and Men.
G Company - Ashhurst Rifle Volunteers - 13th of June 1907
Some collectors would argue that the Sun Hat badge, worn by the 17th (Ruahine) Infantry Regiment, which was formed in early 1914 (and given their badges in Egypt), is in fact a Volunteer Helmet plate to this earlier unit. Certainly there are pictures of the Helmet Plate being worn in WW1, but nothing earlier (yet).
Volunteer Cycle Corps
Wellington Volunteer Cycle Corps (Accepted 18th May 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 30, 1900 - 31, 1901 - 33, 1902 - 34, 1903 - 32 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1899 - 30, 1900 - 31, 1901 - 33, 1902 - 34, 1903 - 32 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Opposite: A group photo of the Wellington Volunteer Cycle Corps taken from The New Zealand Graphic and Ladies Journal, 9 July 1904, p.42 (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections NZG-19040709-0042-01)
New Zealand Field Ambulance and Bearer Corps
No. 5 Company - Wellington Volunteer Bearer Corps (Accepted 6th Nov 1899)
Strength: 1900 - 31, 1901 - 27, 1902 - 32, 1903 - 29 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1900 - 31, 1901 - 27, 1902 - 32, 1903 - 29 Officers, NCO and Men.
Other Units not in the above Formations
Taranaki Mounted Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 78, 1881 - 63, 1882 - 58 Officers, NCO and Men.
Taranaki Light Horse (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1874 - 49 Officers, NCO and Men.
Egmont Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1874 - 38 Officers, NCO and Men.
Naval Artillery (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1883 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
Garrison Band (Taranaki, Wanganui, Patea, and Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1883 - 19, 1884 - 23, 1885 - 26 Officers, NCO and Men.
Waimate Mounted Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1882 - 50 Officers, NCO and Men.
Taranaki Rifles (Taranaki District) - the below three were reported as a combined unit
Strength: 1881 - 55, 1882 - 73, 1883 - 52, 1884 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
- No. 1 Taranaki Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 45 Officers, NCO and Men.
- No. 2 Taranaki Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 33 Officers, NCO and Men.
- No. 3 Taranaki Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 38 Officers, NCO and Men.
Manutahi Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 81, 1881 - 75, 1882 - 77 Officers, NCO and Men.
Opunake Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1882 - 68 Officers, NCO and Men.
Waitara West Rifles (Taranaki District - Disbanded 1882)
Strength: 1880 - 32, 1881 - 32 Officers, NCO and Men.
Waimate Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1882 - 109 Officers, NCO and Men.
Tikorangi Rifles (Taranaki District - Disbanded 1882)
Strength: 1880 - 36 Officers, NCO and Men.
Kent Road Mangorei Rifles (Taranaki District) - the above two were reported as combined in 1881
Strength: 1881 - 54, 1882 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
Mangorei Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 23 Officers, NCO and Men.
Kent Road Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 36 Officers, NCO and Men.
Okato Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 52, 1881 - 41, 1882 - 40 Officers, NCO and Men.
Oakura Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 32, 1881 - 29, 1882 - 53 Officers, NCO and Men.
Omata Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 42, 1882 - 23 Officers, NCO and Men.
Bell Block Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 60, 1881 - 30, 1882 - 56 Officers, NCO and Men.
Urenui Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 27, 1881 - 16 Officers, NCO and Men.
No 1. Ingelwood Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 72, 1881 - 54, 1882 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
No 2. Ingelwood Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 37, 1882 - 87 Officers, NCO and Men.
No 3. Ingelwood Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 83 Officers, NCO and Men.
No 4. Ingelwood Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 17 Officers, NCO and Men.
Inglewood Rangers Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 12th Dec 1884)
Ngaire Rifles (Taranaki District - Disbanded 1882)
Strength: 1882 - not recorded Officers, NCO and Men.
Raleigh Rifles (Taranaki District - Disbanded 1882)
Strength: 1882 - not recorded Officers, NCO and Men.
J Battery - Artillery (Gisbourne District also referred to as Bay of Plenty District or Poverty Bay)
Strength: 1880 - 106, 1881 - 75, 1882 - 108, 1883 - 51, 1884 - 38, 1885 - 50 Officers, NCO and Men.
Cook County Rifles (Poverty Bay District - Accepted 17th Feb 1885 - Disbanded 18th July 1889)
Strength: 1885 - 48, 1889 - 63 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
East Coast Hussars (Poverty Bay District - Disbanded 1893)
Strength: 1889 - 50 (48), 1890 - 46, 1891 - 52(48), 1892 - 46, 1893 - 46 Officers, NCO and Men.
Gisbourne Band (Poverty Bay District)
Strength: 1889 - 18 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Battery - Artillery (Napier District - Accepted 23rd Aug 1869)
Strength: 1880 - 68, 1881 - 61, 1882 - 58, 1883 - 62, 1884 - 52, 1885 - 57, 1889 - 51 (48), 1890 - 49, 1891 - 63 (48), 1892 - 55, 1893 - 48, 1894 - 50, 1895 - 46 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Artillery Volunteer uniform.
Band (Napier/East Coast District)
Strength: 1883 - 10, 1884 - 10, 1885 - 15, 1889 - 20, 1890 - 36, 1891 - 20, 1892 - 20, 1893 - 20, 1894 - 20, 1895 - 22 Officers, NCO and Men.
Napier Naval Artillery (Napier District - Accepted 8th Jan 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 63, 1889 - 60 (48), 1890 - 50, 1891 - 57 (48), 1892 - 61, 1893 - 60, 1894 - 50, 1895 - 58 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Naval Artillery uniform
Wanganui City Rifles - Name changed to Albert Rifles Volunteers - 11th Feb 1892 (Taranaki, Wanganui, Patea, and Rangitikei District - Accepted 18th July 1879)
Strength: 1880 - 95, 1881 - 100, 1882 - 92, 1883 - 52, 1884 - 60, 1885 - 63, 1889 - 58 (48), 1890 - 51, 1891 - 50 (48), 1892 - 20, 1893 - 40 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Kharkee (Khaki), new; officers and sergeants withbreast-pockets, remainder without.
Rangitikei Mounted Rifles (refferred to as Cavalry in 1891 - Taranaki, Wanganui, Patea, and Rangitikei District - Accepted 7th May 1885, disbanded 1893)
Strength: 1885 - 40, 1889 - 50 (48), 1890 - 51, 1891 - 48 (48), 1892 - 49, 1893 - 43 Officers, NCO and Men.
Royal Rangitikei Rifles (Taranaki, Wanganui, Patea, and Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1893 - 57 Officers, NCO and Men.
Wanganui Naval Brigade (Wanganui District)
Strength: 1882 - 94 Officers, NCO and Men.
Veteran Rifles (Wanganui District - Disbanded 1874)
Strength: 1874 - 14 Officers, NCO and Men.
Waverly Rifles (Wanganui District)
Strength: 1880 - 57, 1881 - 42 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 1 Caryle Rifles (Wanganui District)
Strength: 1880 - 51 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 2 Caryle Rifles (Wanganui District)
Strength: 1880 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
Kakaramea Rifles (Wanganui District)
Strength: 1880 - 43 Officers, NCO and Men.
Normanby Rifles (Wanganui District)
Strength: 1880 - 58, 1881 - 51, 1882 - 61 Officers, NCO and Men.
Featherston Rifles (Wairarapa District - Accepted 1st Jan 1885 - Disbanded 1892)
Strength: 1885 - 61, 1889 - 51 (48), 1890 - 48, 1891 - 47 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
Papawai Rifle Volunteers (Wairarapa District - Accepted 15th Feb 1886, disbanded 1892)
Strength: 1890 - 47, 1891 - 47 Officers, NCO and Men.
Wairoa Light Horse Cavalry (Taranaki, Wanganui, Patea, and Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1874 - 30, 1880 - 57, 1881 - 56, 1882 - 55, 1883 - 39, 1884 - 47, 1885 - 48, 1889 - 58 (48), 1891 - 66 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
Hawera Light Horse Cavalry (Patea, Wanganui District - Disbanded 1883)
Strength: 1874 - 30, 1880 - 87, 1881 - 92, 1882 - 70 Officers, NCO and Men.
Wairoa Rifles (Patea District - different from the Wairoa Rifles mentioned in the Waiuku District at the same time).
Strength: 1874 - 23 Officers, NCO and Men.
Wanganui Cavalry (Wanganui District - Disbanded 1874)
Strength: 1874 - 16 Officers, NCO and Men.
Patea Light Horse (Wanganui District)
Strength: 1889 - 23, 1891 - 57 Officers, NCO and Men.
Wanganui Band (Wanganui District)
Strength: 1889 - 23, 1890 - 23, 1891 - 25, 1892 - 20, 1893 - 18, 1894 - 26, 1895 - 20 Officers, NCO and Men.
Wellington Artillery (Wellington District - not recorded whether they were Garrison or Field Artillery)
Strength: 1874 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
Porirua Rifles (Wellington District)
Strength: 1874 - 39 Officers, NCO and Men.
Veteran Rifles (Wellington District)
Strength: 1874 - 53 Officers, NCO and Men.
Veteran Band (Wellington District)
Strength: 1874 - 15 Officers, NCO and Men.
Pauatahanui Rifles (Wellington District)
Strength: 1874 - 43 Officers, NCO and Men.
Naval Brigade (Wellington District)
Strength: 1880 - 207, 1881 - 151, 1882 - 218 Officers, NCO and Men.
Torpedo Corps (Wellington District)
Strength: 1880 - 60 Officers, NCO and Men.
Makara Rifles (Wellington District)
Strength: 1874 - 33, 1880 - 62, 1881 - 51, 1882 - 55, 1883 - 33, 1884 - 21 Officers, NCO and Men.
Wellington Rifles (Wellington District - Accepted 20th Feb 1883 - Disbanded 1893)
Strength: 1883 - 53, 1884 - 46, 1885 - 65, 1890 - 63, 1891 - 62, 1892 - 58 Officers, NCO and Men.
Kaiwharawhara Rifles (Wellinton District)
Strength: 1880 - 69, 1881 - 64, 1882 - 55, 1883 - 30, 1884 - 34, 1885 - 53 Officers, NCO and Men.
Garrison Band (Wellington District)
Strength: 1883 - 19, 1884 - 26, 1885 - 30, 1889 - 25, 1890 - 23, 1891 - 36, 1892 - 26, 1893 - 25, 1894 - 26, 1895 - 25 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1880 - 78, 1881 - 63, 1882 - 58 Officers, NCO and Men.
Taranaki Light Horse (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1874 - 49 Officers, NCO and Men.
Egmont Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1874 - 38 Officers, NCO and Men.
Naval Artillery (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1883 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
Garrison Band (Taranaki, Wanganui, Patea, and Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1883 - 19, 1884 - 23, 1885 - 26 Officers, NCO and Men.
Waimate Mounted Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1882 - 50 Officers, NCO and Men.
Taranaki Rifles (Taranaki District) - the below three were reported as a combined unit
Strength: 1881 - 55, 1882 - 73, 1883 - 52, 1884 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
- No. 1 Taranaki Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 45 Officers, NCO and Men.
- No. 2 Taranaki Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 33 Officers, NCO and Men.
- No. 3 Taranaki Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 38 Officers, NCO and Men.
Manutahi Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 81, 1881 - 75, 1882 - 77 Officers, NCO and Men.
Opunake Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1882 - 68 Officers, NCO and Men.
Waitara West Rifles (Taranaki District - Disbanded 1882)
Strength: 1880 - 32, 1881 - 32 Officers, NCO and Men.
Waimate Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1882 - 109 Officers, NCO and Men.
Tikorangi Rifles (Taranaki District - Disbanded 1882)
Strength: 1880 - 36 Officers, NCO and Men.
Kent Road Mangorei Rifles (Taranaki District) - the above two were reported as combined in 1881
Strength: 1881 - 54, 1882 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
Mangorei Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 23 Officers, NCO and Men.
Kent Road Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 36 Officers, NCO and Men.
Okato Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 52, 1881 - 41, 1882 - 40 Officers, NCO and Men.
Oakura Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 32, 1881 - 29, 1882 - 53 Officers, NCO and Men.
Omata Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 42, 1882 - 23 Officers, NCO and Men.
Bell Block Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 60, 1881 - 30, 1882 - 56 Officers, NCO and Men.
Urenui Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 27, 1881 - 16 Officers, NCO and Men.
No 1. Ingelwood Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 72, 1881 - 54, 1882 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
No 2. Ingelwood Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 37, 1882 - 87 Officers, NCO and Men.
No 3. Ingelwood Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 83 Officers, NCO and Men.
No 4. Ingelwood Rifles (Taranaki District)
Strength: 1880 - 17 Officers, NCO and Men.
Inglewood Rangers Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 12th Dec 1884)
Ngaire Rifles (Taranaki District - Disbanded 1882)
Strength: 1882 - not recorded Officers, NCO and Men.
Raleigh Rifles (Taranaki District - Disbanded 1882)
Strength: 1882 - not recorded Officers, NCO and Men.
J Battery - Artillery (Gisbourne District also referred to as Bay of Plenty District or Poverty Bay)
Strength: 1880 - 106, 1881 - 75, 1882 - 108, 1883 - 51, 1884 - 38, 1885 - 50 Officers, NCO and Men.
Cook County Rifles (Poverty Bay District - Accepted 17th Feb 1885 - Disbanded 18th July 1889)
Strength: 1885 - 48, 1889 - 63 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
East Coast Hussars (Poverty Bay District - Disbanded 1893)
Strength: 1889 - 50 (48), 1890 - 46, 1891 - 52(48), 1892 - 46, 1893 - 46 Officers, NCO and Men.
Gisbourne Band (Poverty Bay District)
Strength: 1889 - 18 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Battery - Artillery (Napier District - Accepted 23rd Aug 1869)
Strength: 1880 - 68, 1881 - 61, 1882 - 58, 1883 - 62, 1884 - 52, 1885 - 57, 1889 - 51 (48), 1890 - 49, 1891 - 63 (48), 1892 - 55, 1893 - 48, 1894 - 50, 1895 - 46 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Artillery Volunteer uniform.
Band (Napier/East Coast District)
Strength: 1883 - 10, 1884 - 10, 1885 - 15, 1889 - 20, 1890 - 36, 1891 - 20, 1892 - 20, 1893 - 20, 1894 - 20, 1895 - 22 Officers, NCO and Men.
Napier Naval Artillery (Napier District - Accepted 8th Jan 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 63, 1889 - 60 (48), 1890 - 50, 1891 - 57 (48), 1892 - 61, 1893 - 60, 1894 - 50, 1895 - 58 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Naval Artillery uniform
Wanganui City Rifles - Name changed to Albert Rifles Volunteers - 11th Feb 1892 (Taranaki, Wanganui, Patea, and Rangitikei District - Accepted 18th July 1879)
Strength: 1880 - 95, 1881 - 100, 1882 - 92, 1883 - 52, 1884 - 60, 1885 - 63, 1889 - 58 (48), 1890 - 51, 1891 - 50 (48), 1892 - 20, 1893 - 40 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Kharkee (Khaki), new; officers and sergeants withbreast-pockets, remainder without.
Rangitikei Mounted Rifles (refferred to as Cavalry in 1891 - Taranaki, Wanganui, Patea, and Rangitikei District - Accepted 7th May 1885, disbanded 1893)
Strength: 1885 - 40, 1889 - 50 (48), 1890 - 51, 1891 - 48 (48), 1892 - 49, 1893 - 43 Officers, NCO and Men.
Royal Rangitikei Rifles (Taranaki, Wanganui, Patea, and Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1893 - 57 Officers, NCO and Men.
Wanganui Naval Brigade (Wanganui District)
Strength: 1882 - 94 Officers, NCO and Men.
Veteran Rifles (Wanganui District - Disbanded 1874)
Strength: 1874 - 14 Officers, NCO and Men.
Waverly Rifles (Wanganui District)
Strength: 1880 - 57, 1881 - 42 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 1 Caryle Rifles (Wanganui District)
Strength: 1880 - 51 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 2 Caryle Rifles (Wanganui District)
Strength: 1880 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
Kakaramea Rifles (Wanganui District)
Strength: 1880 - 43 Officers, NCO and Men.
Normanby Rifles (Wanganui District)
Strength: 1880 - 58, 1881 - 51, 1882 - 61 Officers, NCO and Men.
Featherston Rifles (Wairarapa District - Accepted 1st Jan 1885 - Disbanded 1892)
Strength: 1885 - 61, 1889 - 51 (48), 1890 - 48, 1891 - 47 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
Papawai Rifle Volunteers (Wairarapa District - Accepted 15th Feb 1886, disbanded 1892)
Strength: 1890 - 47, 1891 - 47 Officers, NCO and Men.
Wairoa Light Horse Cavalry (Taranaki, Wanganui, Patea, and Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1874 - 30, 1880 - 57, 1881 - 56, 1882 - 55, 1883 - 39, 1884 - 47, 1885 - 48, 1889 - 58 (48), 1891 - 66 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
Hawera Light Horse Cavalry (Patea, Wanganui District - Disbanded 1883)
Strength: 1874 - 30, 1880 - 87, 1881 - 92, 1882 - 70 Officers, NCO and Men.
Wairoa Rifles (Patea District - different from the Wairoa Rifles mentioned in the Waiuku District at the same time).
Strength: 1874 - 23 Officers, NCO and Men.
Wanganui Cavalry (Wanganui District - Disbanded 1874)
Strength: 1874 - 16 Officers, NCO and Men.
Patea Light Horse (Wanganui District)
Strength: 1889 - 23, 1891 - 57 Officers, NCO and Men.
Wanganui Band (Wanganui District)
Strength: 1889 - 23, 1890 - 23, 1891 - 25, 1892 - 20, 1893 - 18, 1894 - 26, 1895 - 20 Officers, NCO and Men.
Wellington Artillery (Wellington District - not recorded whether they were Garrison or Field Artillery)
Strength: 1874 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
Porirua Rifles (Wellington District)
Strength: 1874 - 39 Officers, NCO and Men.
Veteran Rifles (Wellington District)
Strength: 1874 - 53 Officers, NCO and Men.
Veteran Band (Wellington District)
Strength: 1874 - 15 Officers, NCO and Men.
Pauatahanui Rifles (Wellington District)
Strength: 1874 - 43 Officers, NCO and Men.
Naval Brigade (Wellington District)
Strength: 1880 - 207, 1881 - 151, 1882 - 218 Officers, NCO and Men.
Torpedo Corps (Wellington District)
Strength: 1880 - 60 Officers, NCO and Men.
Makara Rifles (Wellington District)
Strength: 1874 - 33, 1880 - 62, 1881 - 51, 1882 - 55, 1883 - 33, 1884 - 21 Officers, NCO and Men.
Wellington Rifles (Wellington District - Accepted 20th Feb 1883 - Disbanded 1893)
Strength: 1883 - 53, 1884 - 46, 1885 - 65, 1890 - 63, 1891 - 62, 1892 - 58 Officers, NCO and Men.
Kaiwharawhara Rifles (Wellinton District)
Strength: 1880 - 69, 1881 - 64, 1882 - 55, 1883 - 30, 1884 - 34, 1885 - 53 Officers, NCO and Men.
Garrison Band (Wellington District)
Strength: 1883 - 19, 1884 - 26, 1885 - 30, 1889 - 25, 1890 - 23, 1891 - 36, 1892 - 26, 1893 - 25, 1894 - 26, 1895 - 25 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above: An image 22 members of the Wellington Garrison Band, dated 1893, in Wellington, by Wrigglesworth & Binns (Wellington - Te Papa O.000784).
Kaiwarra Rifles (Wellington District - Accepted 29th Dec 1870)
Strength: 1880 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
Newton Rifles (Wellington District - Accepted 21st April 1885 - Disbanded 31st May 1890)
Strength: 1885 - 63, 1889 - 56 (63) Officers, NCO and Men.
Wanganui Naval Artillery Volunteers (Taranaki, Wanganui, Patea, and Rangitikei District - Accepted 22nd Oct 1881)
Strength: 1884 - 50, 1885 - 58, 1889 - 56 (48), 1890 - 56, 1891 - 67 (48), 1892 - 69, 1893 - 68, 1894 - 64, 1895 - 65, 1898 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - In good order.
Victoria Troop Cavalry (Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1874 - 22 Officers, NCO and Men.
Turakina Cavalry (Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1874 - 23 Officers, NCO and Men.
Alfred Cavalry (Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1874 - 38 Officers, NCO and Men.
Lady Bowen Cavalry (Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1874 - 25 Officers, NCO and Men.
Marton Rifles (Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1874 - 25 Officers, NCO and Men.
Turakina Rifles (Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1874 - 22 Officers, NCO and Men.
Manawatu Rifles (Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1874 - 23 Officers, NCO and Men.
Star Boating Club Submarine Mining Volunteers
Strength: 1899 - 54, 1900 - 53 Officers, NCO and Men.
Clive Rifle Volunteers
Strength: 1901 - 50 Officers, NCO and Men.
Te Aro Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 29th June 1886)
Thorndon Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 19th July 1886)
Kaiwarra Rifles (Wellington District - Accepted 29th Dec 1870)
Strength: 1880 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
Newton Rifles (Wellington District - Accepted 21st April 1885 - Disbanded 31st May 1890)
Strength: 1885 - 63, 1889 - 56 (63) Officers, NCO and Men.
Wanganui Naval Artillery Volunteers (Taranaki, Wanganui, Patea, and Rangitikei District - Accepted 22nd Oct 1881)
Strength: 1884 - 50, 1885 - 58, 1889 - 56 (48), 1890 - 56, 1891 - 67 (48), 1892 - 69, 1893 - 68, 1894 - 64, 1895 - 65, 1898 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - In good order.
Victoria Troop Cavalry (Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1874 - 22 Officers, NCO and Men.
Turakina Cavalry (Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1874 - 23 Officers, NCO and Men.
Alfred Cavalry (Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1874 - 38 Officers, NCO and Men.
Lady Bowen Cavalry (Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1874 - 25 Officers, NCO and Men.
Marton Rifles (Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1874 - 25 Officers, NCO and Men.
Turakina Rifles (Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1874 - 22 Officers, NCO and Men.
Manawatu Rifles (Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1874 - 23 Officers, NCO and Men.
Star Boating Club Submarine Mining Volunteers
Strength: 1899 - 54, 1900 - 53 Officers, NCO and Men.
Clive Rifle Volunteers
Strength: 1901 - 50 Officers, NCO and Men.
Te Aro Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 29th June 1886)
Thorndon Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 19th July 1886)
Earlier Formations
1st Battalion Wellington Rifles - Accepted 28th Jan 1886
- Wellington Guards
- Wellington Rifle Volunteers
- Newton (Wellington) Rifle Volunteers
- Te Aro Rifle Volunteers
- Thorndon Rifle Volunteers
West Coast (North Island) Battalion Rifle Volunteers - Accepted 30th March 1886
- Royal (Marton) Rifle Volunteers
- Wanganui Rifle Volunteers
- Taranaki Rifle Volunteers
- Palmerston North Rifle Volunteers
- Patea Rifle Volunteers
- Manchester Rifle Volunteers
- Wanganui City Rifle Volunteers
- Ingelwood Ranger Volunteers
- Hawera Rifle Volunteers
- Wellington Guards
- Wellington Rifle Volunteers
- Newton (Wellington) Rifle Volunteers
- Te Aro Rifle Volunteers
- Thorndon Rifle Volunteers
West Coast (North Island) Battalion Rifle Volunteers - Accepted 30th March 1886
- Royal (Marton) Rifle Volunteers
- Wanganui Rifle Volunteers
- Taranaki Rifle Volunteers
- Palmerston North Rifle Volunteers
- Patea Rifle Volunteers
- Manchester Rifle Volunteers
- Wanganui City Rifle Volunteers
- Ingelwood Ranger Volunteers
- Hawera Rifle Volunteers
Cadet Corps
College Rifle Cadets (Wellington District - reported as a single unit)
Strength: 1880 - 38, 1881 - 55, 1882 - 84, 1883 - 91, 1884 - 117, 1885 - 109 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
No. 1 Company - Wellington College Rifle Cadets
Strength: 1898 - 66, 1899 - 66, 1900 - 54, 1901 - 52, 1902 - 52, 1903 - 60 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
No. 2 Company - Wellington College Rifle Cadets
Strength: 1898 - 51, 1899 - 51, 1900 - 56, 1901 - 56, 1902 - 56, 1903 - 53 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
No. 3 Company - Wellington College Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1903 - 53 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Wanganui Collegiate Cadet Volunteers (Taranaki, Wanganui, Patea, and Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1883 - 50, 1884 - 64, 1885 - 63, 1893 - 63 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Uniform (1893) - Re1d serge frocks Glengarry caps; old.
No. 1 Company - Wanganui College Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 106, 1899 - 52, 1900 - 52, 1901 - 52, 1902 - 54, 1903 - 52 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
No. 2 Company - Wanganui College Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1899 - 44, 1900 - 44, 1901 - 44, 1902 - 55, 1903 - 54 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Wanganui High School Cadets
Strength: 1883 - 32 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Taranaki High School Cadets (Taranaki, Wanganui, Patea, and Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1885 - 31 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Napier High School Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 45, 1899 - 51, 1900 - 56, 1901 - 56, 1902 - 56, 1903 - 56 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Wellingon Boys' Institute Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 60, 1899 - 60, 1900 - 41, 1901 - 40, 1902 - 40, 1903 - 40 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Te Aute College Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 50, 1899 - 55, 1900 - 58, 1901 - 58, 1902 - 59, 1903 - 50 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Mount Cook School Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 49, 1899 - 49, 1900 - 49, 1901 - 49, 1902 - 49 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Masterton School Cadet Volunteers (Formed 1880)
Strength: 1881 - 40, 1882 - 70, 1883 - 67, 1884 - 73, 1885 - 70, 1893 - 60, 1898 - 49, 1899 - 49, 1900 - 49, 1901 - 49, 1902 - 49 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Uniform (1893) - None.
Masterton Cadets (Disbanded 1882)
Strength: 1882 - Not recorded Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Greytown School Cadets (Wairarapa District)
Strength: 1882 - 58, 1883 - 39, 1884 - 55, 1885 - 46 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Carterton School Cadets (Wairarapa District - Formed 1883)
Strength: 1883 - 38, 1884 - 43, 1885 - 47 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Featherston School Cadets (Wairarapa District - Formed 1883)
Strength: 1883 - 44, 1884 - 51, 1885 - 50 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Wangauni Boys' Public School Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 44, 1899 - 44, 1900 - 44, 1901 - 44, 1902 - 44 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*New Plymouth High School Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1883 - 42, 1884 - 48, 1893 - 47, 1898 - 42, 1899 - 42, 1900 - 42, 1901 - 46, 1902 - 46 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Uniform (1893) - The cadets were very well turned out, in good-fitting uniforms.
Masterton Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1903 - 59 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Gisbourne Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 62, 1903 - 37 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Napier City Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 55, 1903 - 39 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Napier High School Naval Cadets
Strength: 1893 - Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Manawatu Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 61, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Dannevirke Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 52, 1903 - 44 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Pahiatua Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1903 - 49 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Foxton Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1903 - 34 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Wanganui Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1880 - 63, 1881 - 42, 1882 - 63, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Artillery Cadets (Gisbourn District also refferred to as Bay of Plenty District)
Strength: 1880 - 81, 1881 - 33 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Artillery Cadets (Napier District - Disbanded 1880)
Strength: 1880 - 20 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Carlyle Cadets (Wanganui District)
Strength: 1880 - 52 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Patea Cadets (Wanganui District)
Strength: 1881 - 53, 1882 - 52 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
City Rifle Cadets (Wellington District - Disbanded in 1881)
Strength: 1880 - 56 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Mount Cook Cadets (Wellington District)
Strength: 1880 - 101, 1881 - 92, 1882 - 99, 1883 - 82, 1884 - 69, 1885 - 89 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Te Aro School Cadets (Wellington District)
Strength: 1880 - 96, 1881 - 91, 1882 - 65, 1883 - 54, 1884 - 56, 1885 - 56 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Artillery Cadets (Wellington District - Disbanded in 1881)
Strength: 1880 - 74 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
College Rifle Cadets (Wellington District)
Strength: 1880 - 38, 1881 - 55, 1882 - 84, 1883 - 91, 1884 - 117 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Naval Cadets (Wellington District)
Strength: 1880 - not recorded, 1881 - 50, 1882 - 23 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*The four Cadet Corps highlighted with a asterisk were placed under the control of the Education Department in 1903
Strength: 1880 - 38, 1881 - 55, 1882 - 84, 1883 - 91, 1884 - 117, 1885 - 109 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
No. 1 Company - Wellington College Rifle Cadets
Strength: 1898 - 66, 1899 - 66, 1900 - 54, 1901 - 52, 1902 - 52, 1903 - 60 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
No. 2 Company - Wellington College Rifle Cadets
Strength: 1898 - 51, 1899 - 51, 1900 - 56, 1901 - 56, 1902 - 56, 1903 - 53 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
No. 3 Company - Wellington College Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1903 - 53 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Wanganui Collegiate Cadet Volunteers (Taranaki, Wanganui, Patea, and Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1883 - 50, 1884 - 64, 1885 - 63, 1893 - 63 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Uniform (1893) - Re1d serge frocks Glengarry caps; old.
No. 1 Company - Wanganui College Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 106, 1899 - 52, 1900 - 52, 1901 - 52, 1902 - 54, 1903 - 52 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
No. 2 Company - Wanganui College Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1899 - 44, 1900 - 44, 1901 - 44, 1902 - 55, 1903 - 54 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Wanganui High School Cadets
Strength: 1883 - 32 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Taranaki High School Cadets (Taranaki, Wanganui, Patea, and Rangitikei District)
Strength: 1885 - 31 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Napier High School Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 45, 1899 - 51, 1900 - 56, 1901 - 56, 1902 - 56, 1903 - 56 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Wellingon Boys' Institute Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 60, 1899 - 60, 1900 - 41, 1901 - 40, 1902 - 40, 1903 - 40 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Te Aute College Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 50, 1899 - 55, 1900 - 58, 1901 - 58, 1902 - 59, 1903 - 50 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Mount Cook School Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 49, 1899 - 49, 1900 - 49, 1901 - 49, 1902 - 49 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Masterton School Cadet Volunteers (Formed 1880)
Strength: 1881 - 40, 1882 - 70, 1883 - 67, 1884 - 73, 1885 - 70, 1893 - 60, 1898 - 49, 1899 - 49, 1900 - 49, 1901 - 49, 1902 - 49 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Uniform (1893) - None.
Masterton Cadets (Disbanded 1882)
Strength: 1882 - Not recorded Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Greytown School Cadets (Wairarapa District)
Strength: 1882 - 58, 1883 - 39, 1884 - 55, 1885 - 46 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Carterton School Cadets (Wairarapa District - Formed 1883)
Strength: 1883 - 38, 1884 - 43, 1885 - 47 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Featherston School Cadets (Wairarapa District - Formed 1883)
Strength: 1883 - 44, 1884 - 51, 1885 - 50 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Wangauni Boys' Public School Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 44, 1899 - 44, 1900 - 44, 1901 - 44, 1902 - 44 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*New Plymouth High School Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1883 - 42, 1884 - 48, 1893 - 47, 1898 - 42, 1899 - 42, 1900 - 42, 1901 - 46, 1902 - 46 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Uniform (1893) - The cadets were very well turned out, in good-fitting uniforms.
Masterton Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1903 - 59 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Gisbourne Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 62, 1903 - 37 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Napier City Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 55, 1903 - 39 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Napier High School Naval Cadets
Strength: 1893 - Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Manawatu Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 61, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Dannevirke Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 52, 1903 - 44 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Pahiatua Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1903 - 49 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Foxton Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1903 - 34 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Wanganui Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1880 - 63, 1881 - 42, 1882 - 63, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Artillery Cadets (Gisbourn District also refferred to as Bay of Plenty District)
Strength: 1880 - 81, 1881 - 33 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Artillery Cadets (Napier District - Disbanded 1880)
Strength: 1880 - 20 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Carlyle Cadets (Wanganui District)
Strength: 1880 - 52 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Patea Cadets (Wanganui District)
Strength: 1881 - 53, 1882 - 52 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
City Rifle Cadets (Wellington District - Disbanded in 1881)
Strength: 1880 - 56 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Mount Cook Cadets (Wellington District)
Strength: 1880 - 101, 1881 - 92, 1882 - 99, 1883 - 82, 1884 - 69, 1885 - 89 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Te Aro School Cadets (Wellington District)
Strength: 1880 - 96, 1881 - 91, 1882 - 65, 1883 - 54, 1884 - 56, 1885 - 56 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Artillery Cadets (Wellington District - Disbanded in 1881)
Strength: 1880 - 74 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
College Rifle Cadets (Wellington District)
Strength: 1880 - 38, 1881 - 55, 1882 - 84, 1883 - 91, 1884 - 117 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Naval Cadets (Wellington District)
Strength: 1880 - not recorded, 1881 - 50, 1882 - 23 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*The four Cadet Corps highlighted with a asterisk were placed under the control of the Education Department in 1903
Nelson Military District.
New Zealand Field Artillery Volunteers
H Battery (Nelson - Accepted 21st March 1873)
Strength: 1880 - 95, 1881 - 83, 1882 - 82, 1883 - 43, 1884 - 37, 1885 - 62, 1889 - 61 (48), 1890 - 53, 1891 - 60 (48), 1892 - 59, 1893 - 60, 1894 - 55, 1895 - 50, 1898 - 55, 1899 - 51, 1900 - 68, 1901 - 67, 1902 - 66, 1903 - 74 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1880 - 95, 1881 - 83, 1882 - 82, 1883 - 43, 1884 - 37, 1885 - 62, 1889 - 61 (48), 1890 - 53, 1891 - 60 (48), 1892 - 59, 1893 - 60, 1894 - 55, 1895 - 50, 1898 - 55, 1899 - 51, 1900 - 68, 1901 - 67, 1902 - 66, 1903 - 74 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above: Major A Pitt (later Colonel) and fellow Officers dated March 1879. From Papers Past, Major Pitt seems to have been Nelson District's Commanding Officer for the Artillery, overseeing both the Naval Garrison and Field Artillery Volunteers. Note the elaborate cuff braid which was worn in conjunction with ribbon braid, crowns and stars to the Collar of their tunics (Nelson Museum collection 16515).
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- Above: A rare gilt brass, single piece, Helmet plate to H Battery (Nelson) - New Zealand Field Artillery Volunteers. Sadly much toning to front from oxidation, but still a rare badge. Note the lower banner which says "H BATTERY FIELD ARTILLERY" (Image from the internet).
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- Above: A picture of a member of H Battery, circa 1900, in uniform. To back, the picture has "Frank McGee of the H Battery Nelson New Zealand. To Jack Brady Esqr. From Alick" .
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- Above: A similar image of Frank, with a fellow member (Brother?) of H Battery. It has the following to back ""Washington Valley, Nelson, New Zealand. With kind regards and remembrance of the past from Alick and Frank McGee, April 1st 1900. To their old pal Jack".
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New Zealand Garrison Artillery Volunteers
Westport Position Artillery Volunteers (prior to 1895 - No. 10 Company - Westport Naval Artillery Volunteers, on the 9th May 1895 title change to - Westport Rifle Volunteers - Accepted 29th Aug 1885)
Strength: 1890 - 52, 1891 - 60, 1892 - 63, 1893 - 58, 1894 - 67, 1895 - 63, 1898 - 53, 1899 - 42, 1900 - 59, 1901 - 49, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1890 - 52, 1891 - 60, 1892 - 63, 1893 - 58, 1894 - 67, 1895 - 63, 1898 - 53, 1899 - 42, 1900 - 59, 1901 - 49, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above: A two piece, Officers gilt brass Cap badge to the Westport Garrison Artillery on its coloured peak cap (Laurie Osborne Collection).
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- Above: A single piece, gilt brass Cap badge to the Westport Garrison Artillery.
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1st Regiment Nelson Mounted Rifle Volunteers
Unit composition of the 1st Regiment Nelson Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 1st Oct 1901
Headquarters: Nelson
It was made up of:
A Squadron - Marlborough Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Referred earlier as Marlborough Hussars - Blenheim - Accepted 8th May 1885).
Strength: 1889 - 57 (48), 1890 - 61, 1891 - 54 (48), 1892 - 51, 1893 - 41, 1894 - 51, 1895 - 50, 1898 - 54, 1899 - 56, 1900 - 85, 1901 - 103, 1902 - 82, 1903 - 85 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Squadron - Wakatu Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Nelson - Accepted 10th March 1900)
Strength: 1900 - 84, 1901 - 67, 1902 - 87, 1903 - 79 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - Takaka Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 5th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 81, 1902 - 85, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Squadron - Motueka Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 93, 1902 - 87, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
Founded 1st Oct 1901
Headquarters: Nelson
It was made up of:
A Squadron - Marlborough Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Referred earlier as Marlborough Hussars - Blenheim - Accepted 8th May 1885).
Strength: 1889 - 57 (48), 1890 - 61, 1891 - 54 (48), 1892 - 51, 1893 - 41, 1894 - 51, 1895 - 50, 1898 - 54, 1899 - 56, 1900 - 85, 1901 - 103, 1902 - 82, 1903 - 85 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Squadron - Wakatu Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Nelson - Accepted 10th March 1900)
Strength: 1900 - 84, 1901 - 67, 1902 - 87, 1903 - 79 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - Takaka Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 5th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 81, 1902 - 85, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Squadron - Motueka Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 93, 1902 - 87, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
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- Opposite: A Horse Breastplate to A Squadron - Marlborough Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Blenheim).
- Above: A view of the side of a horse bit to A Squadron - Marlborough Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Blenheim). It shows one of two bose, which are on either side (Laurie Osborne collection). |
- Opposite: A Slouch hat badge (worn on the turned-up side of the hat) to B Squadron - Wakatu Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Nelson).
Two copper wire looped lugs to back, with no maker mark.
Size 43.5mm by 90mm.
It has been mentioned that Kings Empire Veterans Assoication may have also worn this or a similar badge.
Two copper wire looped lugs to back, with no maker mark.
Size 43.5mm by 90mm.
It has been mentioned that Kings Empire Veterans Assoication may have also worn this or a similar badge.
1st Battalion Nelson Infantry Volunteers
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(Unit composition of the 1st Battalion Nelson Infantry Volunteers.
Founded 1st of Oct 1901 Headquarters: Nelson A Company - Stoke Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 5th April 1873) Strength: 1880 - 59, 1881 - 64, 1882 - 60, 1883 - 39, 1884 - 52, 1885 - 55, 1889 - 59 (48), 1890 - 49, 1891 - 53 (48), 1892 - 48, 1893 - 50, 1894 - 49, 1895 - 48, 1898 - 48, 1899 - 50, 1900 - 63, 1901 - 69, 1902 - 61, 1903 - 50 Officers, NCO and Men. B Company - Blenheim Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 23rd March 1876) Strength: 1885 - 65, 1889 - 68 (48), 1890 - 58, 1891 - 72 (48), 1892 - 75, 1893 - 75, 1894 - 74, 1895 - 70, 1898 - 65, 1899 - 59, 1900 - 68, 1901 - 67, 1902 - 61, 1903 - 48 Officers, NCO and Men. C Company - Waimea Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 5th May 1879) Strength: 1880 - 50, 1881 - 49, 1882 - 41, 1883 - 35, 1884 - 36, 1885 - 47, 1889 - 49 (48), 1890 - 50, 1891 - 52 (48), 1892 - 51, 1893 - 50, 1894 - 51, 1895 - 47, 1898 - 55, 1899 - 68, 1900 - 69, 1901 - 64, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men. D Company - Nelson Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 17th Jan 1871 & 26th Oct 1881) Strength: 1898 - 50, 1899 - 61, 1900 - 75, 1901 - 67, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 58 Officers, NCO and Men. E Company - Waitohi Rifle Volunteers (Picton - Accepted 14th April 1900) Strength: 1901 - 55, 1902 - 55, 1903 - 48 Officers, NCO and Men. |
- Above: A 12mm "N" for "Nelson Military District" ? I have yet to see a shoulder title to confirm, But this pattern differs from the standard "N" in NZ, with feet to the ends of the legs on the "N".
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- Above: A white metal Helmet plate to B Company - Blenheim Rifle Volunteers (Image from the internet).
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- Above: A white metal Helmet plate to C Company - Waimea Rifle Volunteer (Image from the internet).
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- Above: A early, 24.6mm, white metal button to C Company - Waimea Rifle Volunteers. At some stage towards the 1890's, the company adopted the 1885 patt Rifle Volunteers button, with "NZ" to center. A tunic is held as part of the Nelson Muesum collection with these later type buttons on it. Maker marked to "HOBSON & SONS LEXINGTON St LONDON.W" (B Jones Collection).
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- Above: A 23mm, 1870 pattern white metal button to the Spring Creek Rifle Volunteers. Maker marked to "DOLAN & Co (B Jones Collection).
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Spring Creek Rifles (Marlborough District - Accepted 14th Nov 1870)
Strength: 1880 - 78, 1881 - 74, 1882 - 62, 1883 - 32, 1884 - 34, 1885 - 42 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1880 - 78, 1881 - 74, 1882 - 62, 1883 - 32, 1884 - 34, 1885 - 42 Officers, NCO and Men.
2nd Battalion Nelson Infantry Volunteers
Unit composition of the 2nd Battalion Nelson Infantry Volunteers.
Founded 1st of Oct 1901
Headquarters: Greymouth
A Company - 1st Westland Rifle Volunteers (Hokitika - Accepted 13th March 1868)
Strength: 1880 - 93, 1881 - 136, 1882 - 62, 1883 - 47, 1884 - 59, 1885 - 70, 1889 - 71 (48), 1890 - 70, 1891 - 74 (48), 1892 - 69, 1893 - 67, 1894 - 55, 1895 - 63, 1898 - 57, 1899 - 64, 1900 - 71, 1901 - 73, 1902 - 74, 1903 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Company - Greymouth Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 1st Jan 1884)
Strength: 1881 - 61, 1882 - 47, 1884 - 62, 1885 - 65, 1889 - 50 (48), 1890 - 65, 1891 - 64 (48), 1892 - 66, 1893 - 52, 1894 - 64, 1895 - 73, 1898 - 44, 1899 - 63, 1900 - 52, 1901 - 57, 1902 - 58, 1903 - 51 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Company - Denniston Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 61, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 50 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - Reefton Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 62, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 51 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - Millerton Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 12th May 1904)
Disbanded:
E Company - Brunner Ranger Rifle Volunteers (Brunnerton - Accepted 10th Sept 1900 - Disbanded - 12th Aug 1904).
Strength: 1901 - 63, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 43 Officers, NCO and Men.
Founded 1st of Oct 1901
Headquarters: Greymouth
A Company - 1st Westland Rifle Volunteers (Hokitika - Accepted 13th March 1868)
Strength: 1880 - 93, 1881 - 136, 1882 - 62, 1883 - 47, 1884 - 59, 1885 - 70, 1889 - 71 (48), 1890 - 70, 1891 - 74 (48), 1892 - 69, 1893 - 67, 1894 - 55, 1895 - 63, 1898 - 57, 1899 - 64, 1900 - 71, 1901 - 73, 1902 - 74, 1903 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Company - Greymouth Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 1st Jan 1884)
Strength: 1881 - 61, 1882 - 47, 1884 - 62, 1885 - 65, 1889 - 50 (48), 1890 - 65, 1891 - 64 (48), 1892 - 66, 1893 - 52, 1894 - 64, 1895 - 73, 1898 - 44, 1899 - 63, 1900 - 52, 1901 - 57, 1902 - 58, 1903 - 51 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Company - Denniston Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 61, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 50 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - Reefton Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 62, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 51 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - Millerton Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 12th May 1904)
Disbanded:
E Company - Brunner Ranger Rifle Volunteers (Brunnerton - Accepted 10th Sept 1900 - Disbanded - 12th Aug 1904).
Strength: 1901 - 63, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 43 Officers, NCO and Men.
Volunteer Cycle Corps
Nelson College Volunteer Cycle Corps (Accepted 24th May 1902)
Strength: 1903 - 26 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1903 - 26 Officers, NCO and Men.
New Zealand Field Hospital and Bearer Corps
No.4 Company - Nelson Volunteer Bearer Corps (Accepted 15th May 1901)
Strength: 1902 - 25, 1903 - 28 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1902 - 25, 1903 - 28 Officers, NCO and Men.
Other Units not in the above Formations
Picton Rifles (Marlborough District)
Strength: 1880 - 59, 1881 - 58, 1882 - 53 Officers, NCO and Men.
Renwick Rifles (Marlborough District)
Strength: 1880 - 62, 1881 - 51 Officers, NCO and Men.
Blenheim Rifles (Marlborough District)
Strength: 1880 - 69, 1881 - 60, 1882 - 88, 1883 - 44, 1884 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
Blenheim Mounted Rifles (Marlborough District)
Strength: 1885 - 33 Officers, NCO and Men.
City Rifles (Nelson District)
Strength: 1880 - 53, 1881 - 50, 1882 - 70, 1883 - 54, 1884 - 48, 1885 - 61, 1889 - 58 (48), 1890 - 53, 1891 - 54 (48), 1892 - 49, 1893 - 56, 1894 - 52, 1895 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
Nelson Navals/Naval Artillery (Nelson District - Accepted 26th Oct 1881)
Strength: 1880 - 61, 1881 - 60, 1882 - 63, 1883 - 57, 1884 - 47, 1885 - 61, 1889 - 66 (48), 1890 - 55, 1891 - 60 (48), 1892 - 59, 1893 - 64, 1894 - 64, 1895 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
Westport Naval Artillery (Nelson District)
Strength: 1889 - 58 (48), 1891 - 58 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
Garrison Band (Nelson District)
Strength: 1883 - 17, 1884 - 12, 1885 - 19 Officers, NCO and Men.
Greymouth Rangers (Westland District)
Strength: 1880 - 73 Officers, NCO and Men.
Greymouth Naval Artillery (Westland District - Accepted 13th May 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 62, 1889 - 61 (48), 1890 - 68, 1891 - 68 (48), 1892 - 67, 1893 - 67, 1894 - 59, 1895 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
Blenheim City Rifle Volunteers (Marlborough District)
Strength: 1889 - 68 (48), 1890 - 59, 1891 - 68 (48), 1892 - 56, 1893 - 59, 1894 - 51, 1895 - 55, 1898 - 51, 1899 - 39 Officers, NCO and Men.
Kumara Rifle Volunteers (Westland District - Accepted 28th Aug 1881)
Strength: 1882 - 67, 1883 - 42, 1884 - 54, 1885 - 53, 1889 - 67 (48), 1890 - 64, 1891 - 67 (48), 1892 - 59, 1893 - 58, 1894 - 59, 1895 - 55, 1898 - 46, 1899 - 48 Officers, NCO and Men.
Inangahua Rifles (Westland District - Accepted 20th Aug 1885, disbanded 1893)
Strength: 1889 - 52 (48), 1890 - 54, 1891 - 52 (48), 1892 - 50 Officers, NCO and Men.
Brunnerton Rifles (Westland District)
Strength: 1889 - 59 (48), 1890 - 55, 1891 - 66 (48), 1892 - 60, 1893 - 58, 1894 - 59, 1895 - 21 Officers, NCO and Men.
Mawhera Rifle Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 37 Officers, NCO and Men.
Totara Rifle Volunteers - (Accepted 20th of April 1891)
Strength: 1891 - 64, 1892 - 66, 1893 - 58, 1894 - 49, 1895 - 56, 1898 - 48, 1899 - 49, 1900 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1880 - 59, 1881 - 58, 1882 - 53 Officers, NCO and Men.
Renwick Rifles (Marlborough District)
Strength: 1880 - 62, 1881 - 51 Officers, NCO and Men.
Blenheim Rifles (Marlborough District)
Strength: 1880 - 69, 1881 - 60, 1882 - 88, 1883 - 44, 1884 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
Blenheim Mounted Rifles (Marlborough District)
Strength: 1885 - 33 Officers, NCO and Men.
City Rifles (Nelson District)
Strength: 1880 - 53, 1881 - 50, 1882 - 70, 1883 - 54, 1884 - 48, 1885 - 61, 1889 - 58 (48), 1890 - 53, 1891 - 54 (48), 1892 - 49, 1893 - 56, 1894 - 52, 1895 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
Nelson Navals/Naval Artillery (Nelson District - Accepted 26th Oct 1881)
Strength: 1880 - 61, 1881 - 60, 1882 - 63, 1883 - 57, 1884 - 47, 1885 - 61, 1889 - 66 (48), 1890 - 55, 1891 - 60 (48), 1892 - 59, 1893 - 64, 1894 - 64, 1895 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
Westport Naval Artillery (Nelson District)
Strength: 1889 - 58 (48), 1891 - 58 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
Garrison Band (Nelson District)
Strength: 1883 - 17, 1884 - 12, 1885 - 19 Officers, NCO and Men.
Greymouth Rangers (Westland District)
Strength: 1880 - 73 Officers, NCO and Men.
Greymouth Naval Artillery (Westland District - Accepted 13th May 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 62, 1889 - 61 (48), 1890 - 68, 1891 - 68 (48), 1892 - 67, 1893 - 67, 1894 - 59, 1895 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
Blenheim City Rifle Volunteers (Marlborough District)
Strength: 1889 - 68 (48), 1890 - 59, 1891 - 68 (48), 1892 - 56, 1893 - 59, 1894 - 51, 1895 - 55, 1898 - 51, 1899 - 39 Officers, NCO and Men.
Kumara Rifle Volunteers (Westland District - Accepted 28th Aug 1881)
Strength: 1882 - 67, 1883 - 42, 1884 - 54, 1885 - 53, 1889 - 67 (48), 1890 - 64, 1891 - 67 (48), 1892 - 59, 1893 - 58, 1894 - 59, 1895 - 55, 1898 - 46, 1899 - 48 Officers, NCO and Men.
Inangahua Rifles (Westland District - Accepted 20th Aug 1885, disbanded 1893)
Strength: 1889 - 52 (48), 1890 - 54, 1891 - 52 (48), 1892 - 50 Officers, NCO and Men.
Brunnerton Rifles (Westland District)
Strength: 1889 - 59 (48), 1890 - 55, 1891 - 66 (48), 1892 - 60, 1893 - 58, 1894 - 59, 1895 - 21 Officers, NCO and Men.
Mawhera Rifle Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 37 Officers, NCO and Men.
Totara Rifle Volunteers - (Accepted 20th of April 1891)
Strength: 1891 - 64, 1892 - 66, 1893 - 58, 1894 - 49, 1895 - 56, 1898 - 48, 1899 - 49, 1900 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
Earlier Formations
Nelson and Westland Battalion Rifle Volunteers - Accepted 5th May 1886
- Westland Rifle Volunteers
- Spring Creek Rifle Volunteers
- Nelson Rifle Volunteers
- Stoke Rifle Volunteers
- Blenheim Rifle Volunteers
- Kumara Rifle Volunteers
- Greymouth Rifle Volunteers
- Inangahua Rifle Volunteers
- Westland Rifle Volunteers
- Spring Creek Rifle Volunteers
- Nelson Rifle Volunteers
- Stoke Rifle Volunteers
- Blenheim Rifle Volunteers
- Kumara Rifle Volunteers
- Greymouth Rifle Volunteers
- Inangahua Rifle Volunteers
Cadet Corps
Picton Cadets (Marlborough District)
Strength: 1880 - 91, 1881 - 59, 1882 - 55 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Tuamarina School Cadets (Formed 1883 - Marlborough District)
Strength: 1883 - 21, 1884 - 26, 1885 - 26 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Artillery Cadets (Nelson District - Disbanded 1881)
Strength: 1880 - 4 6Officers, NCO and Cadets.
City Rifle Cadets (Nelson District - Disbanded 1881)
Strength: 1880 - 40 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Nelson College Cadets (Nelson District)
Strength: 1880 - 76, 1881 - 41, 1882 - 58, 1883 - 55, 1884 - 51, 1885 - 49 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
No. 1 Company - Nelson College Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 70, 1899 - 66, 1900 - 71, 1901 - 46, 1902 - 54, 1903 - 60 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
No. 2 Company - Nelson College Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1901 - 54, 1902 - 54, 1903 - 60 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Greymouth Cadets (Westland District - Disbanded 1881)
Strength: 1880 - 60 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Blenheim School Rifle Cadet Volunteers (Marlborough District)
Strength: 1880 - 152, 1881 - 79, 1882 - 100, 1883 - 97, 1884 - 97, 1885 - 88, 1898 - 45, 1899 - 45, 1900 - 43, 1901 - 42, 1902 - 47 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Blenheim Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 43, 1903 - 48 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Nelson Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 63, 1903 - 44 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Brunner Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1903 - 48 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*The above Cadet Corps highlighted with an asterisk was placed under the control of the Education Department in 1902
Strength: 1880 - 91, 1881 - 59, 1882 - 55 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Tuamarina School Cadets (Formed 1883 - Marlborough District)
Strength: 1883 - 21, 1884 - 26, 1885 - 26 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Artillery Cadets (Nelson District - Disbanded 1881)
Strength: 1880 - 4 6Officers, NCO and Cadets.
City Rifle Cadets (Nelson District - Disbanded 1881)
Strength: 1880 - 40 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Nelson College Cadets (Nelson District)
Strength: 1880 - 76, 1881 - 41, 1882 - 58, 1883 - 55, 1884 - 51, 1885 - 49 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
No. 1 Company - Nelson College Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 70, 1899 - 66, 1900 - 71, 1901 - 46, 1902 - 54, 1903 - 60 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
No. 2 Company - Nelson College Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1901 - 54, 1902 - 54, 1903 - 60 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Greymouth Cadets (Westland District - Disbanded 1881)
Strength: 1880 - 60 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Blenheim School Rifle Cadet Volunteers (Marlborough District)
Strength: 1880 - 152, 1881 - 79, 1882 - 100, 1883 - 97, 1884 - 97, 1885 - 88, 1898 - 45, 1899 - 45, 1900 - 43, 1901 - 42, 1902 - 47 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Blenheim Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 43, 1903 - 48 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Nelson Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 63, 1903 - 44 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Brunner Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1903 - 48 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*The above Cadet Corps highlighted with an asterisk was placed under the control of the Education Department in 1902
Canterbury Military District.
Detachment of Royal New Zealand Artillery
New Zealand Field Artillery Volunteers
C Battery N.Z. Artillery (South Canterbury District - 31st Oct 1866)
Strength: 1880 - 83, 1881 - 70, 1882 - 114, 1883 - 59, 1884 - 50, 1885 - 71, 1889 - 51 (48), 1890 - 56, 1891 - 57 (48), 1892 - 58, 1893 - 53, 1894 - 55, 1895 - 53 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1880 - 83, 1881 - 70, 1882 - 114, 1883 - 59, 1884 - 50, 1885 - 71, 1889 - 51 (48), 1890 - 56, 1891 - 57 (48), 1892 - 58, 1893 - 53, 1894 - 55, 1895 - 53 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Battery (Christchurch District - Accepted 31st Dec 1867)
Strength: 1880 - 68, 1881 - 49, 1882 - 90, 1883 - 63, 1884 - 46, 1885 - 62, 1889 - 63 (53), 1890 - 47, 1891 - 54 (53), 1892 - 63, 1893 - 56, 1894 - 56, 1895 - 61, 1898 - 64, 1899 - 63, 1900 - 77, 1901 - 95, 1902 - 72, 1903 - 93 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Tunics; busbies. The uniform has been found to be too expensive, and the men are gradually getting into serge frocks. This gradual transformation is disastrous to the appearance of the men, as each new frock is different in material and colour, and often in cut. The plumes are of all shapes.
- Opposite: A post 1902, single piece, gilt brass Cap badge to "E" Battery, New Zealand Field Artillery Volunteers. Three copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark.
A Brief History
(taken from a 1967 newspaper clipping, which I think comes from the "Press" newspaper, but I have no details. It is celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Battery - 1867 to 1967)
- 1867 formed as the Christchurch Artillery Volunteers
- 1879 name changed to E Battery - New Zealand Regiment of Artillery (Volunteers)
- Post 1905, its headquarters were localed at King Edward Barracks, Cashel Street.
- A "section" was sent at the outbreak of war in 1914, with other sections from different batteries, to Palmerston North to make up a battery of 4 guns which left with the main body in Oct that year from Wellington.
- After Gallipoli, the original NZEF batteries were reformed in Egypt, and "E" battery men were distributed through these newly formed units. Battery "letters" changed to "numbers" with men of E Battery commanding the 7th, 8th and 9th Batteries.
- At home, E Battery in Christchurch continued to operate throughout WW1
- 1920 - with the return of the NZFA from the 1st NZEF, E battery was renamed "9th Battery New Zealand Artillery"
- 1940 - named changed to the name they still used in 1967 - "32 Battery Royal New Zealand Artillery"
Strength: 1880 - 68, 1881 - 49, 1882 - 90, 1883 - 63, 1884 - 46, 1885 - 62, 1889 - 63 (53), 1890 - 47, 1891 - 54 (53), 1892 - 63, 1893 - 56, 1894 - 56, 1895 - 61, 1898 - 64, 1899 - 63, 1900 - 77, 1901 - 95, 1902 - 72, 1903 - 93 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Tunics; busbies. The uniform has been found to be too expensive, and the men are gradually getting into serge frocks. This gradual transformation is disastrous to the appearance of the men, as each new frock is different in material and colour, and often in cut. The plumes are of all shapes.
- Opposite: A post 1902, single piece, gilt brass Cap badge to "E" Battery, New Zealand Field Artillery Volunteers. Three copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark.
A Brief History
(taken from a 1967 newspaper clipping, which I think comes from the "Press" newspaper, but I have no details. It is celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Battery - 1867 to 1967)
- 1867 formed as the Christchurch Artillery Volunteers
- 1879 name changed to E Battery - New Zealand Regiment of Artillery (Volunteers)
- Post 1905, its headquarters were localed at King Edward Barracks, Cashel Street.
- A "section" was sent at the outbreak of war in 1914, with other sections from different batteries, to Palmerston North to make up a battery of 4 guns which left with the main body in Oct that year from Wellington.
- After Gallipoli, the original NZEF batteries were reformed in Egypt, and "E" battery men were distributed through these newly formed units. Battery "letters" changed to "numbers" with men of E Battery commanding the 7th, 8th and 9th Batteries.
- At home, E Battery in Christchurch continued to operate throughout WW1
- 1920 - with the return of the NZFA from the 1st NZEF, E battery was renamed "9th Battery New Zealand Artillery"
- 1940 - named changed to the name they still used in 1967 - "32 Battery Royal New Zealand Artillery"
Canterbury Division of Garrison Artillery Volunteers
Original company numbering of the Canterbury District Garrison Artillery Volunteers were as follows:
No. 5 Company - (Lyttelton) Lyttelton Naval Artillery
No. 7 Company - (Lyttelton) N Battery (Lyttelton)
The two were renamed to:
No. 1 Company - (Lyttelton Naval Artillery Volunteers - based at Fort Jervois (Ripa Island) - Accepted 6th Sept 1880)
Strength: 1883 - 63, 1884 - 60, 1885 - 63, 1889 - 79 (63), 1890 - 69, 1891 - 66 (63), 1892 - 70, 1893 - 69, 1894 - 66, 1895 - 70, 1898 - 73, 1899 - 74, 1900 - 85, 1901 - 88, 1902 - 75, 1903 - 78 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Naval Artillery Volunteer uniform, in good order
No. 2 Company - (N Battery - Accepted 10th April 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 64, 1889 - 63 (53), 1890 - 49, 1891 - 58 (53), 1892 - 62, 1893 - 62, 1894 - 53, 1895 - 50, 1898 - 53, 1899 - 54, 1900 - 72, 1901 - 82, 1902 - 78, 1903 - 85 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Artillery white-enamel belts busbies.
Note that in papers of the time, both units appear to still use their old titles of No. 5 - Lyttelton Naval Voluntters and No. 7 - Lyttelton N Battery NZ Garrison Artillery Volunteers. The title No. 1 and No. 2 Companies of Canterbury Division Garrison Artillery Volunteers does not appear to be used. They are often referred to as Lyttelton Division Garrison Artillery Volunteers.
- Above Right: A map indicating the location of the Garrison Artillery Positions up to 1910, around the Harbour entrance to Lyttelton. Taken from "The Path To Gallipoli, Defending New Zealand 1840-1915" - Ian McGibbon 1991
No. 5 Company - (Lyttelton) Lyttelton Naval Artillery
No. 7 Company - (Lyttelton) N Battery (Lyttelton)
The two were renamed to:
No. 1 Company - (Lyttelton Naval Artillery Volunteers - based at Fort Jervois (Ripa Island) - Accepted 6th Sept 1880)
Strength: 1883 - 63, 1884 - 60, 1885 - 63, 1889 - 79 (63), 1890 - 69, 1891 - 66 (63), 1892 - 70, 1893 - 69, 1894 - 66, 1895 - 70, 1898 - 73, 1899 - 74, 1900 - 85, 1901 - 88, 1902 - 75, 1903 - 78 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Naval Artillery Volunteer uniform, in good order
No. 2 Company - (N Battery - Accepted 10th April 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 64, 1889 - 63 (53), 1890 - 49, 1891 - 58 (53), 1892 - 62, 1893 - 62, 1894 - 53, 1895 - 50, 1898 - 53, 1899 - 54, 1900 - 72, 1901 - 82, 1902 - 78, 1903 - 85 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Artillery white-enamel belts busbies.
Note that in papers of the time, both units appear to still use their old titles of No. 5 - Lyttelton Naval Voluntters and No. 7 - Lyttelton N Battery NZ Garrison Artillery Volunteers. The title No. 1 and No. 2 Companies of Canterbury Division Garrison Artillery Volunteers does not appear to be used. They are often referred to as Lyttelton Division Garrison Artillery Volunteers.
- Above Right: A map indicating the location of the Garrison Artillery Positions up to 1910, around the Harbour entrance to Lyttelton. Taken from "The Path To Gallipoli, Defending New Zealand 1840-1915" - Ian McGibbon 1991
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- Opposite & Above: An image dated 1899, which I believe shows members of both No. 5 - Lyttelton Naval Volunteers and No. 7 Lyttelton N Battery NZ Garrison Artillery Volunteers. Sergt-Major Charles E Beazley has been highlighted above, wearing a forage Cap, with flaming grenade Collar badges to his tunic. You can just make out his Sergeants chevrons to his right sleeve (Lyttelton Museum).
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- Above: An image of Battery Sergeant Major Charles Edwin Beazley, sitting between a Junior Army Cadet (left - with glengarry hat) and a Scout (right). He retired in July 1906, but is referenced in Papers Past as being a member of No. 7 - Lyttelton N Battery, NZGA Volunteers from 1896. He wears his unit's Helmet Plate to his Dark Blue Artillery patterned Home Service helmet. Note his rank to his right sleeve only, sadly with badges just out of view (Hunter-Beazley family collection).
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- Above: A post 1902 gilt brass helmet plate to No. 7 Company - (Lyttelton) N Battery (Lyttelton). The Kings Crown has been removed (maybe to signify a member retiring or leaving the service of the King) and then re-soldered back later by a collector. Two copper looped lugs to back, in a East/West configuration. There would have been a 3rd, behind the crown, but this has been lost with the removal. Size is 104mm by 88mm (HP is curved).
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- Above: Just a close up of the bottom banner showing the words "No. 7. COY. NEW ZEALAND GARRn. ARTY VOLs".
New Zealand Engineer Volunteers
Badges to No.1 Company, NZEV (Canterbury Engineer Volunteers - Accepted 1865 & 27th April 1885).
Headquarters: Christchurch
Strength: 1880 - 70, 1881 - 61 (disbanded), 1885 - 49, 1889 - 56 (48), 1890 - 48, 1891 - 37 (48), 1892 - 52, 1893 - 60, 1894 - 67, 1895 - 67, 1898 - 60, 1899 - 64, 1900 - 59, 1901 - 82, 1902 - 84, 1903 - 85 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet frock forage-caps.
Headquarters: Christchurch
Strength: 1880 - 70, 1881 - 61 (disbanded), 1885 - 49, 1889 - 56 (48), 1890 - 48, 1891 - 37 (48), 1892 - 52, 1893 - 60, 1894 - 67, 1895 - 67, 1898 - 60, 1899 - 64, 1900 - 59, 1901 - 82, 1902 - 84, 1903 - 85 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet frock forage-caps.
- Above: A Gilt brass other ranks Cap badge with the words "No.1 NZ Engineers" with King Edward the 7th Cypher to center. Two copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark (image from the internet).
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- Above: A silver and gilt brass Officers belt center with the words "No.1 NZ Engineers" with King Edward the 7th Cypher to center. It has a gilt brass backing plate. Two short brass tabs to back in a North/South configuration to attach to a belt plate. No maker mark and size 45.5mm by 40mm.
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- Above: A while metal, 24.4mm 1885 pattern button to the "CEV", or Canterbury Engineer Volunteers. Maker marked to "HOBSON & SON LONDON" (B Jones Collection).
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- Above: A gilt brass 21.8mm tunic button to the "1 NZE", worn by No.1 Company, NZEV, circa 1903. Has the maker mark to back of "crossed swords" so Wilkinson Swords "SWORD MAKE, TRADE MARK, MADE IN ENGLAND".
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1st Regiment North Canterbury Mounted Rifle Volunteers
Unit composition of the 1st Regiment North Canterbury Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 1st of May 1901
Headquarters: Christchurch
A Squadron - Canterbury Yeomanry Cavalry Volunteers (Christchurch - Accepted 13th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1880 - 118, 1881 - 119, 1882 - 129, 1883 - 51, 1884 - 57, 1885 - 75, 1889 - 73 (48), 1890 - 79, 1891 - 75 (48), 1892 - 76, 1893 - 75, 1894 - 75, 1895 - 70, 1898 - 55, 1899 - 61, 1900 - 73, 1901 - 110, 1902 - 90, 1903 - 67 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet tunics; breeches white helmets, with scarlet plumes and also undress uniform in excellent order.
B Squadron - Canterbury Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Christchurch - Accepted 11th April 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 46, 1889 - 49 (43), 1890 - 44, 1891 - 38 (43), 1892 - 44, 1893 - 44, 1894 - 43, 1895 - 47, 1898 - 55, 1899 - 63, 1900 - 77, 1901 - 85, 1902 - 101, 1903 - 82 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Blue frocks; kharkee (Khaki) breeches leather gaiters; forage-caps.
C Squadron - Ellesmere Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Leeston - Accepted 5th Aug 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 50, 1900 - 85, 1901 - 79, 1902 - 70, 1903 - 60 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Squadron - Malvern Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Waddington - Accepted 11th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 71, 1902 - 72, 1903 - 77 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Squadron - Waimakariri Mounted Rifle Volunteers (West Melton - Accepted 14th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 75, 1902 - 76, 1903 - 61 Officers, NCO and Men.
Reserve Corps:
- Canterbury Scout Volunteer Reserve (Christchurch) - Founded 15th Aug 1907
- South Canterbury Volunteer Reserve (Timaru) - Founded 9th Nov 1907
- Above: A post 1902, gilt brass Helmet Plate to "B" Squadron - Canterbury Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Christchurch). Three lugs to back, with one behind crown and two midway down in a East/West configuration. Note the circular center is separate from the crown and wreath, and soldered into place at 4 points. Size 93mm by 65mm.
Motto: Celer Et Audax (Swift and bold).
Founded 1st of May 1901
Headquarters: Christchurch
A Squadron - Canterbury Yeomanry Cavalry Volunteers (Christchurch - Accepted 13th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1880 - 118, 1881 - 119, 1882 - 129, 1883 - 51, 1884 - 57, 1885 - 75, 1889 - 73 (48), 1890 - 79, 1891 - 75 (48), 1892 - 76, 1893 - 75, 1894 - 75, 1895 - 70, 1898 - 55, 1899 - 61, 1900 - 73, 1901 - 110, 1902 - 90, 1903 - 67 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet tunics; breeches white helmets, with scarlet plumes and also undress uniform in excellent order.
B Squadron - Canterbury Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Christchurch - Accepted 11th April 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 46, 1889 - 49 (43), 1890 - 44, 1891 - 38 (43), 1892 - 44, 1893 - 44, 1894 - 43, 1895 - 47, 1898 - 55, 1899 - 63, 1900 - 77, 1901 - 85, 1902 - 101, 1903 - 82 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Blue frocks; kharkee (Khaki) breeches leather gaiters; forage-caps.
C Squadron - Ellesmere Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Leeston - Accepted 5th Aug 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 50, 1900 - 85, 1901 - 79, 1902 - 70, 1903 - 60 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Squadron - Malvern Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Waddington - Accepted 11th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 71, 1902 - 72, 1903 - 77 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Squadron - Waimakariri Mounted Rifle Volunteers (West Melton - Accepted 14th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 75, 1902 - 76, 1903 - 61 Officers, NCO and Men.
Reserve Corps:
- Canterbury Scout Volunteer Reserve (Christchurch) - Founded 15th Aug 1907
- South Canterbury Volunteer Reserve (Timaru) - Founded 9th Nov 1907
- Above: A post 1902, gilt brass Helmet Plate to "B" Squadron - Canterbury Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Christchurch). Three lugs to back, with one behind crown and two midway down in a East/West configuration. Note the circular center is separate from the crown and wreath, and soldered into place at 4 points. Size 93mm by 65mm.
Motto: Celer Et Audax (Swift and bold).
- Above: A pouch badge to A Squadron - Canterbury Yeomanry Cavalry Volunteers (image from the internet).
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- Opposite: A superb image taken by Laurie Osbourne of his 4 New Zealand Volunteer Bridal Bits. Two of which I purchased, and are shown further below.
From Left to Right
- D Squadron - Malvern Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Waddington).
- A Squadron - Canterbury Yeomanry Cavalry Volunteers (Christchurch).
- A Squadron - Marlborough Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Blenheim).
- A Squadron - Manawatu Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
From Left to Right
- D Squadron - Malvern Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Waddington).
- A Squadron - Canterbury Yeomanry Cavalry Volunteers (Christchurch).
- A Squadron - Marlborough Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Blenheim).
- A Squadron - Manawatu Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
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- Left and Above: A Bridle to A Squadron - Canterbury Yeomanry Cavalry Volunteers (Christchurch). Well worn to brass and pitted to steel. The crown was used in both Victorian and Edwardian periods.
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- Above: A strap disc to A Squadron - Canterbury Yeomanry Cavalry Volunteers (Christchurch). A brass disc, with a single, long, D shaped wide loop to back to be threaded through a leather strap on a harness or equipment associated with a Horse.
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Above: Pair of sets of separate, thick brass, hand cut letters to A Squadron - Canterbury Yeomanry Cavalry Volunteers (Christchurch) - "C.Y.C". These all have two copper looped lugs solder to back. No maker mark.
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- Above Center: A 2nd Lieutenants Shoulder strap, with single bullion rank pip and the "CYC" in brass letters for A Squadron - Canterbury Yeomanry Cavalry Volunteers (Christchurch) - "C.Y.C" (image from the internet).
- Above: A Horse Breastplate badge to B Squadron - Canterbury Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Christchurch CMR). Cast brass, with two rivets to back. No maker mark and note missing tip from base (image from the internet).
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- Above Right: Another Bridle, this time to D Squadron - Malvern Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Waddington). Very little wear to brass. Bit is made out of White Metal.
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- Above Left & Right: More images of the D Squadron - Malvern Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Waddington) Bridle. On the bit it is maker marked to "Masons Silver, C & M ( C & M=Contractor & Manufacturer), 1901" On the other side is "M.M.R, 51" for Melvin Mounted Rifles, and this would be Bridle 51 to the company.
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- Opposite: A darkened, gilt brass helment plate to the 1st Regiment North Canterbury Mounted Rifle Volunteers (image from the internet).
- Above: A pair of opposing, single piece gilt brass Collars badges to the 1st Regiment North Canterbury Mounted Rifle Volunteers. One has 2 D shaped copper looped lugs, while the other has 2 copper wire looped lugs to back, but no maker mark to either. Size 26mm by 54.5mm. |
2nd Regiment North Canterbury Mounted Rifle Volunteers
Unit composition of the 2nd Regiment North Canterbury Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 1st of May 1901
Headquarters: Culverton
A Squadron -Kaikoura Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Kaikoura - Accepted 28th Oct 1899)
Strength: 1901 - 78, 1902 - 64, 1903 - 74 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Squadron - Amuri Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Waiau - Accepted 11th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 106, 1902 - 83, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - Cust Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 6th May 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 71, 1902 - 85, 1903 - 67 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Squadron - North Canterbury Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Tuahiwi - Accepted 8th May 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 80, 1902 - 93, 1903 - 51 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Opposite: A gilt Officers multi-piece Helmet plate to A Squadron - Kaikoura Mounted Rifles. Note the separate letters added to below the Ram's head. "KMR" for Kaikoura Mounted Rifles. All other Squadrons had the same helmet plate with different letters, "AMR" for Amuri Mounted Rifles (see below), "CMR" for Cust Mounted Rifles (see below) and "NCMR" for North Canterbury Mounted Rifles. This plate is unusal due to the material backing colour, which should be dark blue, but is instead red. Other ranks plates are one piece brass, and non-void to center (image from the internet).
Founded 1st of May 1901
Headquarters: Culverton
A Squadron -Kaikoura Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Kaikoura - Accepted 28th Oct 1899)
Strength: 1901 - 78, 1902 - 64, 1903 - 74 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Squadron - Amuri Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Waiau - Accepted 11th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 106, 1902 - 83, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - Cust Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 6th May 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 71, 1902 - 85, 1903 - 67 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Squadron - North Canterbury Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Tuahiwi - Accepted 8th May 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 80, 1902 - 93, 1903 - 51 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Opposite: A gilt Officers multi-piece Helmet plate to A Squadron - Kaikoura Mounted Rifles. Note the separate letters added to below the Ram's head. "KMR" for Kaikoura Mounted Rifles. All other Squadrons had the same helmet plate with different letters, "AMR" for Amuri Mounted Rifles (see below), "CMR" for Cust Mounted Rifles (see below) and "NCMR" for North Canterbury Mounted Rifles. This plate is unusal due to the material backing colour, which should be dark blue, but is instead red. Other ranks plates are one piece brass, and non-void to center (image from the internet).
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- Above: A other ranks helmet plate to "C" Squadron - Cust Mounted Rifle Volunteers (CMR). Single piece, it has three copper looped lugs to back (one behind crown, with two lower down in a East/West configuration). No maker mark (image taken from the internet).
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- Above: A pair of gilt brass generic Collar badges to the 2nd Regiment North Canterbury Mounted Rifle Volunteers. Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back in a East/West configuration. No maker mark and size 29mm by 41mm.
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- Above: A pair of hand engraved, Silver (?) Collar badges to "C" Squadron - Cust Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
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- Above: C Squadron - Cust Mounted Rifle Volunteers Horse Breastplate Badge.
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- Above: Reverse of the same medal, with QMS Young's name and the maker mark of "B E & Co".
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- Above: A rather rare pouch or cross-belt badge to C Squadron - Cust Mounted Rifle Volunteers. Sadly the image is taken from afar, and to the side, but the only one I have seen to the 2nd NCMR (image from the internet).
The North Canterbury Battalion (Infantry Volunteers)
The North Canterbury Battalion formed on the 10th of June 1897, from various volunteer units in the region.
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- Above: A opposing pair of North Canterbury Other Ranks Collar badges. Silver or silvered Crane to center, which is held in place by two wire folded to back of Brass backing. Two D shaped copper lugs, with no maker mark.
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- Above: A Cap badge set up for the peaked cap, worn by some company's of the North Canterbury Battalion. Separate Brass "N" and "Z" with a right facing (when worn) Collar badge. All have two D shaped lugs to back.
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- Above: A opposing pair of North Canterbury Other Ranks Collar badges. White metal Crane to center, which is soldered in place to Brass backing. Two D shaped copper lugs, with no maker mark.
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Motto: Ake Ake Kia Kaha (Forever and ever be strong).
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- Above: A darkened brass, 21.5mm button to the CANTERBURY RIFLES, with "NZ" to center. Maker marked to "EXTRA SUPERIOR LONDON" (B Jones Collection).
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- Above: A Other ranks Collar badge to the North Canterbury Battalion, with backing ribbon of Blue/White Blue. Sadly the significants of which has not been recorded. It will be to distingish a Company from another (image from the internet).
The North Canterbury Battalion was reorganised on the the 7th and 8th of Oct, 1903 into two battalions
- 1st North Canterbury Battalion of Infantry Volunteers
- 2nd North Canterbury Battalion of Infantry Volunteers
The North Canterbury Battalion was reorganised on the the 7th and 8th of Oct, 1903 into two battalions
- 1st North Canterbury Battalion of Infantry Volunteers
- 2nd North Canterbury Battalion of Infantry Volunteers
1st North Canterbury Battalion of Infantry Volunteers
Unit composition of the 1st North Canterbury Battalion of Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 7th of Oct 1903 - prior - The North Canterbury Battalion.
Headquarters: Christchurch
A Company - Christchurch City Guards Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 27th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1880 - 64, 1881 - 56, 1882 - 74, 1883 - 62, 1884 - 45, 1885 - 50, 1889 - 72 (63), 1890 - 46, 1891 - 49 (63), 1892 - 39, 1893 - 36, 1894 - 69, 1895 - 59, 1898 - 63, 1899 - 64, 1900 - 65, 1901 - 61, 1902 - 59, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; black helmets.
B Company - Christ's Collage Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 1st Jan 1883)
Strength: 1883 - 62, 1884 - 50, 1885 - 62, 1889 - 69 (63), 1890 - 63, 1891 - 43 (63), 1892 - 63, 1893 - 58, 1894 - 60, 1895 - 51, 1898 - 62, 1899 - 58, 1900 - 73, 1901 - 67, 1902 - 67, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet tunics; black helmets three men in serge frocks (temporary).
C Company - Christchurch City Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 11th Jan 1883)
Strength: 1883 - 63, 1884 - 53, 1885 - 79, 1898 - 60, 1899 - 63, 1900 - 54, 1901 - 59, 1902 - 60, 1903 - 46 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - Kaiapoi Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 30th April 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 50, 1889 - 72 (63), 1890 - 64, 1891 - 65 (63), 1892 - 68, 1893 - 84, 1894 - 76, 1895 - 62, 1898 - 62, 1899 - 63, 1900 - 63, 1901 - 59, 1902 - 61, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Company - Rangiora Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 11th Nov 1886)
Strength: 1889 - 54 (48), 1890 - 55, 1891 - 52 (48), 1892 - 55, 1893 - 56, 1894 - 50, 1895 - 53, 1898 - 54, 1899 - 65, 1900 - 67, 1901 - 80, 1902 - 57, 1903 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - Imperial Rifle Volunteers (Christchurch - Accepted 21st Oct 1897)
Strength: 1898 - 63, 1899 - 63, 1900 - 62, 1901 - 58, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
Founded 7th of Oct 1903 - prior - The North Canterbury Battalion.
Headquarters: Christchurch
A Company - Christchurch City Guards Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 27th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1880 - 64, 1881 - 56, 1882 - 74, 1883 - 62, 1884 - 45, 1885 - 50, 1889 - 72 (63), 1890 - 46, 1891 - 49 (63), 1892 - 39, 1893 - 36, 1894 - 69, 1895 - 59, 1898 - 63, 1899 - 64, 1900 - 65, 1901 - 61, 1902 - 59, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; black helmets.
B Company - Christ's Collage Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 1st Jan 1883)
Strength: 1883 - 62, 1884 - 50, 1885 - 62, 1889 - 69 (63), 1890 - 63, 1891 - 43 (63), 1892 - 63, 1893 - 58, 1894 - 60, 1895 - 51, 1898 - 62, 1899 - 58, 1900 - 73, 1901 - 67, 1902 - 67, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet tunics; black helmets three men in serge frocks (temporary).
C Company - Christchurch City Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 11th Jan 1883)
Strength: 1883 - 63, 1884 - 53, 1885 - 79, 1898 - 60, 1899 - 63, 1900 - 54, 1901 - 59, 1902 - 60, 1903 - 46 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - Kaiapoi Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 30th April 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 50, 1889 - 72 (63), 1890 - 64, 1891 - 65 (63), 1892 - 68, 1893 - 84, 1894 - 76, 1895 - 62, 1898 - 62, 1899 - 63, 1900 - 63, 1901 - 59, 1902 - 61, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Company - Rangiora Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 11th Nov 1886)
Strength: 1889 - 54 (48), 1890 - 55, 1891 - 52 (48), 1892 - 55, 1893 - 56, 1894 - 50, 1895 - 53, 1898 - 54, 1899 - 65, 1900 - 67, 1901 - 80, 1902 - 57, 1903 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - Imperial Rifle Volunteers (Christchurch - Accepted 21st Oct 1897)
Strength: 1898 - 63, 1899 - 63, 1900 - 62, 1901 - 58, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
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- Above: A well worn Officers Helmet Plate to the 1st North Canterbury Battalion. Note the voided center, with red material backing cloth, and separate Silver Crane. It has a complicated backing plate to back, bolted on with nuts and screw thread. Three long looped lugs, no maker mark. Motto: Ake Ake Kia Kaha (Forever and ever be strong).
- Opposite: A full length image of Corporal Bigg-Withers. He wears a coloured uniform, with Corporal's chevrons to one arm. On his collar is a 1st Batt, North Canterbury badge, and an embroidered shoulder strap which says "C" over a "1" and likely "NORTH CANTERBURY" (for C Company - Christchurch City Rifle Volunteers?). But I cannot make out the latter. (image from Auckland Libraries). |
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- Opposite & Above: A "Other Ranks" Helmet Plate and Collars to the 1st North Canterbury Battalion. The Helmet Plate is solid to background, around the Crane, with it just sweated onto front. To back are three long copper looped lugs, one behind the crown, while the other two are midway to back, in a east/west configuration.
One of my collars (left in the picture) has been brooched to back, and extra gilt finish applied. Both have a white metal Crane sweated to front. The other has two copper looped lugs. No maker mark to any of them. |
- Opposite: A Other Ranks Glengarry with backing ribbon to the 1st Canterbury Rifle Battalion, Scarlet/Black/Scarlet.
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- Above Left: A multi piece, Officers Glengarry Cap badge to the 1st Canterbury Rifle Battalion, formed in 1906. Single piece to front, it has extra voiding or fretting to center, garter and around the Battalion title and motto. Behind this is black material, which is held in place by a round backing plate and two lugs (in a North/South configuration, with pin). Brooch fitting in a East/West configuration and no maker mark (image from the internet).
Officers collar badges are of the the same fretted design, but smaller in size (see below for Other Ranks size).
Motto: Pro Aris Et Focis (For home and hearth).
Officers collar badges are of the the same fretted design, but smaller in size (see below for Other Ranks size).
Motto: Pro Aris Et Focis (For home and hearth).
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- Opposite & Above: A Glengarry Cap badge and pair of Collars in white metal to the 1st Canterbury Rifle Battalion Volunteers. All three are one piece, with two copper looped lugs to back in a East/West configuration. No maker mark, with size of Cap 55mm by 50mm, and Collars 33mm by 28.5mm.
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The Christchurch City Guards Rifle Volunteers formed on the 15th of December, 1893.
On the 10th of June 1897, it formed part of the North Canterbury Battalion.
On the 7th of October 1903, it became A Company, 1st Battalion, North Canterbury Rifle Volunteers
On the 10th of June 1897, it formed part of the North Canterbury Battalion.
On the 7th of October 1903, it became A Company, 1st Battalion, North Canterbury Rifle Volunteers
- Above: A single piece, pre 1895 white metal, "Other Ranks" helmet plate to the Christchurch City Guards Rifle Volunteers (CCG). Three long copper looped lugs to back, with ine to back of crown, while the other two are in a East/West configuration, mid way down to back. No maker mark and size 130mm by 114mm (note HP is curved).
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- Above: A multi piece, silver and silver plated brass, Officers Shoulder Belt Plate to the Christchurch City Guards Rifle Volunteers (CCG). Three bolt threads attach the wreath with crown to the backing plate. cyphur to center held by three folded wires. No maker mark and size 73mm by 58mm.
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2nd North Canterbury Battalion of Infantry Volunteers
Unit composition of the 2nd North Canterbury Battalion of Infantry Volunteers.
Founded 8th of Oct 1903 - prior - The North Canterbury Battalion.
Headquarters: Christchurch
A Company - Sydenham Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 11th Jan 1883, amalgamated with Canterbury Irish Rifle Volunteers on the 1st June 1892 and was reffered to as "A Company, Christchurch Rifles" - Accepted 12th July 1898)
Strength: 1883 - 63, 1884 - 53, 1885 - 79, 1889 - 68 (63), 1890 - 52, 1891 - 41 (63), 1892 - 65, 1893 - 64, 1894 - 65, 1895 - 53, 1899 - 65, 1900 - 63, 1901 - 66, 1902 - 69, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet tunics black helmets. Captain Whiteside in undress.
Also (1893): This corps is the result of the amalgamation of the Canterbury Irish Rifles and Sydenham Rifles in June last, when the corps mustered 79. Within five months the corps has dwindled to total of 65, but believe that the original total contained the names of men who only existed on paper.
B Company - Linwood Rifle Volunteers (Christchurch - Accepted 17th Nov 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 64, 1900 - 61, 1901 - 53, 1902 - 58, 1903 - 57 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Company - Civil Service Rifle Volunteers (Christchurch - Accepted 9th May 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 59, 1902 - 66, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - Canterbury Highland Rifle Volunteers (Christchurch - Accepted Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 62, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 65Officers, NCO and Men.
E Company - Canterbury Native Rifle Volunteers (Christchurch - Accepted 10th Sept 1900))
Strength: 1901 - 63, 1902 - 66, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
Disbanded: Ellesmere Guards Rifle Volunteers (Doyleston - Accepted 31st Oct 1900 - Disbanded 23rd Oct 1906)
Strength: 1901 - 54, 1902 - 59, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
Founded 8th of Oct 1903 - prior - The North Canterbury Battalion.
Headquarters: Christchurch
A Company - Sydenham Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 11th Jan 1883, amalgamated with Canterbury Irish Rifle Volunteers on the 1st June 1892 and was reffered to as "A Company, Christchurch Rifles" - Accepted 12th July 1898)
Strength: 1883 - 63, 1884 - 53, 1885 - 79, 1889 - 68 (63), 1890 - 52, 1891 - 41 (63), 1892 - 65, 1893 - 64, 1894 - 65, 1895 - 53, 1899 - 65, 1900 - 63, 1901 - 66, 1902 - 69, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet tunics black helmets. Captain Whiteside in undress.
Also (1893): This corps is the result of the amalgamation of the Canterbury Irish Rifles and Sydenham Rifles in June last, when the corps mustered 79. Within five months the corps has dwindled to total of 65, but believe that the original total contained the names of men who only existed on paper.
B Company - Linwood Rifle Volunteers (Christchurch - Accepted 17th Nov 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 64, 1900 - 61, 1901 - 53, 1902 - 58, 1903 - 57 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Company - Civil Service Rifle Volunteers (Christchurch - Accepted 9th May 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 59, 1902 - 66, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - Canterbury Highland Rifle Volunteers (Christchurch - Accepted Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 62, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 65Officers, NCO and Men.
E Company - Canterbury Native Rifle Volunteers (Christchurch - Accepted 10th Sept 1900))
Strength: 1901 - 63, 1902 - 66, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
Disbanded: Ellesmere Guards Rifle Volunteers (Doyleston - Accepted 31st Oct 1900 - Disbanded 23rd Oct 1906)
Strength: 1901 - 54, 1902 - 59, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above: An image of Lieutenant Francis Marion Bates Fisher, here as a member of the Christchurch Civil Service Rifle Volunteers probably about 1901 .
Note the "NZ" and the North Canterbury style badges worn. The collar appear to be Officers quality, with fretting out of the Battalion title in the wreath, while the badge to the cap center is like the above, with solid wreath. |
- Above: A "Other Ranks", gilt brass Helmet Plate to the 2nd North Canterbury Infantry Volunteers. Single piece, with three copper looped lugs to back, one to behind the crown, and two, in a East/West configuration, mid-way to back. No maker mark and size 115mm by 85mm.
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- Above: A pair of gilt brass, opposing Collar badges to the 2nd North Canterbury Infantry Volunteers. Both have two D shaped copper looped lugs to back, and no maker mark. Size 42mm by 36mm. Note the above Right Collar was also used as a Glengarry badge (see below).
- Opposite: An image of a Corporal in the 2nd North Canterbury Infantry Volunteers. He appears to have a North Canterbury Collar size badge to his side-hat, while he wears a pair of opposing Collars, like that of above. He also seems to have the below buttons to his tunic. Sadly is embroidered shoulder boards are not visiable, so I cannot confirm which company of the 2nd North Canterbury Infantry Volunteers he belongs to (Te Papa PS.002765). |
- Above: A gilt brass Glengarry badge, with its backing ribbon to 2nd North Canterbury Infantry Volunteers, Black/Scarlet/Black. Note the badge is the same size as the Left (when worn) Collar badge, 42mm by 36mm.
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- Above: A white metal belt buckle center to the 2nd North Canterbury Infantry Volunteers. Two short brass tabs to back, in a North/South configuration. No maker mark and size 42mm by 36mm.
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- Above: A fixed shank, gilt (Officers?), 22mm button to the 2nd North Canterbury Infantry Volunteers, Maker marked to back to "FIRMIN & SONS Ld, LONDON".
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- Above: A fixed shank, gilt brass, 22.3mm button to the 2nd North Canterbury Infantry Volunteers, Maker marked to back to "FIRMIN & SONS Ld, LONDON".
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- Above: A fixed shank, gilt brass, 16mm button to the 2nd North Canterbury Infantry Volunteers, Maker marked to back to "FIRMINS LONDON" (B Jones collection).
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Motto: Ake Ake Kia Kaha (Forever and ever be strong).
The Canterbury Highland Rifle Volunteers formed on the 10th of Sept 1900, and wore the Gordon tartan.
1st Aug 1901 - became J Company, North Canterbury Battalion.
7th Oct 1903 - became D Company, 2nd Battalion, North Canterbury Rifle Volunteers.
The Canterbury Highland Rifle Volunteers formed on the 10th of Sept 1900, and wore the Gordon tartan.
1st Aug 1901 - became J Company, North Canterbury Battalion.
7th Oct 1903 - became D Company, 2nd Battalion, North Canterbury Rifle Volunteers.
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- Opposite: A 2 piece, white metal Bonnet badge to the Canterbury Highland Rifle Volunteers. Two long copper looped lugs to back in a East/West configuration, but no maker mark. Size 48.5mm by 64mm.
- Above: A opposing pair of gilt brass Collar badges to the Canterbury Highland Rifle Volunteers. Two D shaped copper looped lugs to the back of each in a East/West configuration with no maker mark. Size 31mm by 39mm. |
Motto: Pass Forward.
- Above: A fixed shank, silver plated 25mm tunic buttons to the Canterbury Highland Rifle Volunteers. Much wear to the silver plated to front. Maker marked to "Hobson & Son, Lexington St, London" to back. Two holes are drilled either side to back.
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- Above: A fixed shank, gilt brass 25mm tunic buttons to the Canterbury Highland Rifle Volunteers. Maker marked to "Hobson & Son, Lexington St, London" to back.
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- Above: A fixed shank, Silver plated brass 16mm tunic buttons to the Canterbury Highland Rifle Volunteers. Maker marked to "HOBSON & SON" (B Jones Collection).
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The Canterbury Scottish Rifle Volunteers were founded on the 16th of Feb, 1885.
Scottish Rifles (North Canterbury/Canterbury District)
Strength: 1885 - 69, 1889 - 65 (63), 1890 - 42, 1891 - 50 (63), 1892 - 50, 1893 - 33 Officers, NCO and Men.
They wore a scarlet doublet, forage cap, and the kilt of Gordon tartan.
They disbanded on the 12th of Dec 1893.
It is not recorded at this stage on whether they wore any other unique NZ insignia.
Scottish Rifles (North Canterbury/Canterbury District)
Strength: 1885 - 69, 1889 - 65 (63), 1890 - 42, 1891 - 50 (63), 1892 - 50, 1893 - 33 Officers, NCO and Men.
They wore a scarlet doublet, forage cap, and the kilt of Gordon tartan.
They disbanded on the 12th of Dec 1893.
It is not recorded at this stage on whether they wore any other unique NZ insignia.
- Above: A cloth and embroidered shoulder title to the Canterbury Scottish Rifle Volunteers (image from the internet).
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- Above: A 1885, fixed shank, 25mm, white metal tunic button to the Canterbury Scottish Rifle Volunteers. Maker marked to back to "HOBSON & SON, 37 & 38 LITTLE WINDMILL St, HAYMARKET, LONDON".
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1st Regiment South Canterbury Mounted Rifle Volunteers
Unit composition of the 1st Regiment South Canterbury Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 1st of May 1901
Headquarters: Temuka
A Squadron - South Canterbury Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Timaru - Accepted 20th Sept 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 62, 1900 - 61, 1901 - 90, 1902 - 99, 1903 - 71 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Squadron - Ashburton Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 20th March 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 90, 1902 - 84, 1903 - 73 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - Mackenzie Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Fairlie - Accepted 8th May 1900 - Disbanded 24th Oct 1907)
Strength: 1901 - 82, 1902 - 76, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Squadron - Studholme Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Waimate - Accepted 9th May 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 72, 1902 - 71, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Squadron - Geraldine Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 9th Dec 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 72, 1902 - 74, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Opposite: D Squadron - Studholme Mounted Rifle Volunteers Horse Breastplate Badge.
Founded 1st of May 1901
Headquarters: Temuka
A Squadron - South Canterbury Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Timaru - Accepted 20th Sept 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 62, 1900 - 61, 1901 - 90, 1902 - 99, 1903 - 71 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Squadron - Ashburton Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 20th March 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 90, 1902 - 84, 1903 - 73 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - Mackenzie Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Fairlie - Accepted 8th May 1900 - Disbanded 24th Oct 1907)
Strength: 1901 - 82, 1902 - 76, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Squadron - Studholme Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Waimate - Accepted 9th May 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 72, 1902 - 71, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Squadron - Geraldine Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 9th Dec 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 72, 1902 - 74, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Opposite: D Squadron - Studholme Mounted Rifle Volunteers Horse Breastplate Badge.
South Canterbury Battalion of Infantry Volunteers
Unit composition of the South Canterbury Rifle Battalion.
Headquarters: Timaru
It was made up of:
A Company - Timaru City Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 31st Oct 1866)
Strength: 1898 - 63, 1899 - 59, 1900 - 64, 1901 - 65, 1902 - 53, 1903 - 70 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Company - No. 1 Temuka Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 28th March 1868)
Strength: 1880 - 90, 1881 - 78, 1882 - 85, 1883 - 38, 1884 - 39, 1885 - 51, 1889 - 54 (48), 1890 - 49, 1891 - 49 (48), 1892 - 51, 1893 - 50, 1894 - 50, 1895 - 51, 1898 - 58, 1899 - 69, 1900 - 61, 1901 - 68, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Company - Ashburton Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 15th Aug 1879)
Strength: 1880 - 61, 1881 - 57, 1882 - 79, 1883 - 35, 1884 - 40, 1885 - 61, 1889 - 58 (48), 1890 - 55, 1891 - 52 (48), 1892 - 51, 1893 - 51, 1894 - 62, 1895 - 70, 1898 - 62, 1899 - 57, 1900 - 62, 1901 - 63, 1902 - 56, 1903 - 59 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - Timaru Port Guard Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 1st Jan 1885)
Strength: 1898 - 66, 1899 - 62, 1900 - 63, 1901 - 69, 1902 - 61, 1903 - 61 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Company - Timaru Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 22nd April 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 99, 1889 - 57 (48), 1890 - 52, 1891 - 54 (48), 1892 - 58, 1893 - 72, 1894 - 70, 1895 - 65, 1898 - 67, 1899 - 64, 1900 - 60, 1901 - 67, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - Waimate Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 30th May 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 53, 1889 - 52 (48), 1890 - 52, 1891 - 48 (48), 1892 - 50, 1893 - 50, 1894 - 49, 1895 - 55, 1898 - 65, 1899 - 69, 1900 - 64, 1901 - 65, 1902 - 46, 1903 - 48 Officers, NCO and Men.
G Company - Geraldine Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 17th April 1885 & 21st April 1899)
Strength: 1885 - 51, 1889 - 51 (48), 1890 - 50, 1891 - 47 (48), 1892 - 50, 1893 - 50, 1894 - 50, 1895 - 50, 1900 - 64, 1901 - 59, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
H Company - Ashburton Guards Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th June 1885, disbanded in 1890 - Accepted 29th June 1899)
Strength: 1885 - 40, 1889 - 52 (48), 1900 - 62, 1901 - 60, 1902 - 58, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above Right: A large, "Other Ranks" white metal 1886 Helmet Plate with QVC crown to the South Canterbury Rifle Battalion. Multi-piece, with separate roundal to center, attached to the backing star. It also has a separate bottom Brass banner, with the word "READY", the Battalions motto. To back are two brass tangs, soldered to the back of the crown, which hold the red velvet to back. There are three looped copper lugs, one behind the crown, and two, in a East/West configuration, mid-way to back. No maker mark and size 125mm by 103mm (note HP is curved and some rays to star are bent).
Headquarters: Timaru
It was made up of:
A Company - Timaru City Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 31st Oct 1866)
Strength: 1898 - 63, 1899 - 59, 1900 - 64, 1901 - 65, 1902 - 53, 1903 - 70 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Company - No. 1 Temuka Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 28th March 1868)
Strength: 1880 - 90, 1881 - 78, 1882 - 85, 1883 - 38, 1884 - 39, 1885 - 51, 1889 - 54 (48), 1890 - 49, 1891 - 49 (48), 1892 - 51, 1893 - 50, 1894 - 50, 1895 - 51, 1898 - 58, 1899 - 69, 1900 - 61, 1901 - 68, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Company - Ashburton Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 15th Aug 1879)
Strength: 1880 - 61, 1881 - 57, 1882 - 79, 1883 - 35, 1884 - 40, 1885 - 61, 1889 - 58 (48), 1890 - 55, 1891 - 52 (48), 1892 - 51, 1893 - 51, 1894 - 62, 1895 - 70, 1898 - 62, 1899 - 57, 1900 - 62, 1901 - 63, 1902 - 56, 1903 - 59 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - Timaru Port Guard Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 1st Jan 1885)
Strength: 1898 - 66, 1899 - 62, 1900 - 63, 1901 - 69, 1902 - 61, 1903 - 61 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Company - Timaru Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 22nd April 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 99, 1889 - 57 (48), 1890 - 52, 1891 - 54 (48), 1892 - 58, 1893 - 72, 1894 - 70, 1895 - 65, 1898 - 67, 1899 - 64, 1900 - 60, 1901 - 67, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - Waimate Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 30th May 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 53, 1889 - 52 (48), 1890 - 52, 1891 - 48 (48), 1892 - 50, 1893 - 50, 1894 - 49, 1895 - 55, 1898 - 65, 1899 - 69, 1900 - 64, 1901 - 65, 1902 - 46, 1903 - 48 Officers, NCO and Men.
G Company - Geraldine Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 17th April 1885 & 21st April 1899)
Strength: 1885 - 51, 1889 - 51 (48), 1890 - 50, 1891 - 47 (48), 1892 - 50, 1893 - 50, 1894 - 50, 1895 - 50, 1900 - 64, 1901 - 59, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
H Company - Ashburton Guards Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th June 1885, disbanded in 1890 - Accepted 29th June 1899)
Strength: 1885 - 40, 1889 - 52 (48), 1900 - 62, 1901 - 60, 1902 - 58, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above Right: A large, "Other Ranks" white metal 1886 Helmet Plate with QVC crown to the South Canterbury Rifle Battalion. Multi-piece, with separate roundal to center, attached to the backing star. It also has a separate bottom Brass banner, with the word "READY", the Battalions motto. To back are two brass tangs, soldered to the back of the crown, which hold the red velvet to back. There are three looped copper lugs, one behind the crown, and two, in a East/West configuration, mid-way to back. No maker mark and size 125mm by 103mm (note HP is curved and some rays to star are bent).
- Above: In 1897, the Glengarry hat was adopted by the South Canterbury Rifle Battalion, and a smaller version of the Helmet plate was produced to fit the hat, with QVC crown. This is a two piece badge, with brass tabs to Scarlet material to back of crown, and a small "READY" banner in Brass to base. Two copper looped lugs, and no maker marked. Size 65mm by 53mm (note some rays are bent).
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- Above: A post 1902 version of the Glengarry badge for the South Canterbury Rifle Battalion. Two pieced, with white metal and separate Brass motto banner of "READY" attached by two wires. Two copper looped lugs to back in a east/west configuration. No maker mark (image from the internet).
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- Above: A pair of 1886, white metal Collar badges to the South Canterbury Rifle Battalion. Both have two copper looped lugs to back in a East/West configuration. No maker mark and size 31mm by 30mm.
- In 1903, the Battalion changed it badges again - Opposite: A Glengarry badge to the South Canterbury Battalion of Rifle Volunteers. In the "books" on NZ Badges, these are reported as being bi-metal. I have only ever seen about three examples of this badge, and they all appear to be a darkened brass. Note the wear to the finish, with brass on the Kiwi showing through. Two copper loops to back in a East/West configuration, with no maker mark. Size 63mm by 52mm |
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- Opposite: A right (when worn), bi-metal collar badge to the South Canterbury Battalion of Rifle Volunteers. Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark. Size 29mm by 29mm. The collars are opposing, and the pattern was adopted by the 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment collar post 1911.
Motto: Pro Patria (For our country).
Motto: Pro Patria (For our country).
Volunteer Cycle Corps
Christchurch Volunteer Cycle Corps (Accepted 20th May 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 27, 1900 - 25, 1901 - 28, 1902 - 22, 1903 - 23 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1899 - 27, 1900 - 25, 1901 - 28, 1902 - 22, 1903 - 23 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above: A Cap and Collar badge set in gilt brass, with the leters "N" and "Z", which has been attributed to the Christchurch Volunteer Cycle Corps. It is likely that other units within New Zealand wore similar badges.
New Zealand Field Hospital and Bearer Corps
No. 3 Company - Christchurch Bearer Corps (Accepted 16th March 1899)
Strength: 1899 - 25, 1900 - 26, 1901 - 31, 1902 - 51, 1903 - 47 Officers, NCO and Men.
Motto: Te Manaaki Tika (Take great care of others).
Strength: 1899 - 25, 1900 - 26, 1901 - 31, 1902 - 51, 1903 - 47 Officers, NCO and Men.
Motto: Te Manaaki Tika (Take great care of others).
- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to No.3 Company, Field Hospital. Two copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark. Size 39mm by 33mm.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to No.3 Company, Field Ambulance. No. 3 Company were the only unit in the New Zealand Field Hospital and Bearer Corps to have a metal badge.
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- Above: A gilt brass Collar badge to No.3 Company, Field Ambulance. This badge has been brooched, with just the hinge and hook present (pin missing). Size 32mm by 27mm (image from the internet).
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- Above: An early Volunteer period Geneva Cross, worn on the upper sleeve. Dark material background, with a gold bullion thread boarder, white background and red threaded cross. No maker mark or label to back. This badge has a few moth nips to center white and dark background.
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- Above: An image of Mr Andrewes, with sadly no date. The cut of his uniform and hat suggests WW1, so maybe a Reinforcement. He is wearing either the No. 3 Company, Field Ambulance or No. 3 Company Field Hospital badges, but note he has Collars, which are slightly smaller than his Cap badge. NOT recorded in the books (Nelson Museum collection 91675).
Other Units not in the above Formations
Naval Brigade (Canterbury District)
Strength: 1881 - 91, 1882 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
Garrison Band (Canterbury/North Canterbury District)
Strength: 1883 - 23, 1884 - 18, 1889 - 23, 1891 - 28, 1893 - 35 Officers, NCO and Men.
Ellesmere Guards Volunteers
Strength: 1901 - 54, 1902 - 59, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
Richmond Rifles (Canterbury/North Canterbury District - Accepted 30th April 1885 - Disbanded 1894)
Strength: 1885 - 65, 1889 - 70 (63), 1890 - 45, 1891 - 20 (63), 1892 - 35, 1893 - 4, 1894 - 4 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet tunic black helmets.
Canterbury Irish Rifles (Canterbury District - Accepted 30th April 1885, amalgamated with the Sydenham Rifle Volunteers on the 1st June 1892 and ceased to exist)
Strength: 1885 - 71, 1889 - 69 (63), 1890 - 44, 1891 - 40 (63) Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above Right: A white metal helmet plate to the Canterbury Irish Rifles. Sadly the photo of the plate has been taken on a slight angle, but still shows the layout and center of the units helmet plate.
Garrison Band (Canterbury/North Canterbury District)
Strength: 1885 - 25, 1890 - 21, 1891 - 27, 1892 - 35, 1893 - 29, 1894 - 28, 1895 - 32 Officers, NCO and Men.
Canterbury Honorary Reserve Corps (Canterbury District - Accepted 17th April 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 100, 1889 - 58 (48), 1890 - 57, 1891 - 57 (48), 1892 - 57, 1893 - 57, 1894 - 57, 1895 - 57 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1885) " A Norfolk jacket and trousers of blue serge, destitute of facings, with brown leather gaiters and belts, sets off to advantage the form of the most " solid man " among those of Christchurch's " ancient citizens" who compose the corps. The head-dress is a blue helmet, having on the front a small bronze plate, bearing the monogram of the corps surrounded by a laurel wreath and surmounted by a crown. The officers' helmets have in addition spikes on the top, and look all the better in consequence. It may be remarked that the appearance of the men would be much improved if their helmets, were also spiked, as their head- coverings in their present state are scarcely military-looking. Local i industry has been patronised by the corps j in procuring their attire, the material employed being Kaiapoi serge of excellent quality, while the garments were made at the Kaiapoi Clothing Factory, the manager of which may be congratulated on the manner in which the work has been done" (Star (Christchurch), Issue 5319, 25 May 1885, Page 3).
Strength: 1881 - 91, 1882 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
Garrison Band (Canterbury/North Canterbury District)
Strength: 1883 - 23, 1884 - 18, 1889 - 23, 1891 - 28, 1893 - 35 Officers, NCO and Men.
Ellesmere Guards Volunteers
Strength: 1901 - 54, 1902 - 59, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
Richmond Rifles (Canterbury/North Canterbury District - Accepted 30th April 1885 - Disbanded 1894)
Strength: 1885 - 65, 1889 - 70 (63), 1890 - 45, 1891 - 20 (63), 1892 - 35, 1893 - 4, 1894 - 4 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet tunic black helmets.
Canterbury Irish Rifles (Canterbury District - Accepted 30th April 1885, amalgamated with the Sydenham Rifle Volunteers on the 1st June 1892 and ceased to exist)
Strength: 1885 - 71, 1889 - 69 (63), 1890 - 44, 1891 - 40 (63) Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above Right: A white metal helmet plate to the Canterbury Irish Rifles. Sadly the photo of the plate has been taken on a slight angle, but still shows the layout and center of the units helmet plate.
Garrison Band (Canterbury/North Canterbury District)
Strength: 1885 - 25, 1890 - 21, 1891 - 27, 1892 - 35, 1893 - 29, 1894 - 28, 1895 - 32 Officers, NCO and Men.
Canterbury Honorary Reserve Corps (Canterbury District - Accepted 17th April 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 100, 1889 - 58 (48), 1890 - 57, 1891 - 57 (48), 1892 - 57, 1893 - 57, 1894 - 57, 1895 - 57 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1885) " A Norfolk jacket and trousers of blue serge, destitute of facings, with brown leather gaiters and belts, sets off to advantage the form of the most " solid man " among those of Christchurch's " ancient citizens" who compose the corps. The head-dress is a blue helmet, having on the front a small bronze plate, bearing the monogram of the corps surrounded by a laurel wreath and surmounted by a crown. The officers' helmets have in addition spikes on the top, and look all the better in consequence. It may be remarked that the appearance of the men would be much improved if their helmets, were also spiked, as their head- coverings in their present state are scarcely military-looking. Local i industry has been patronised by the corps j in procuring their attire, the material employed being Kaiapoi serge of excellent quality, while the garments were made at the Kaiapoi Clothing Factory, the manager of which may be congratulated on the manner in which the work has been done" (Star (Christchurch), Issue 5319, 25 May 1885, Page 3).
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- Above: A white metal Collar (left when worn) to the Canterbury Honorary Reserve Corps. This is the exact same pattern as the Waipu Scottish Mounted Rifles (see Auckland Volunteer section), but worn in white metal only and in opposing collars and the Cap badge facing the same way as the above. The corps appears to have disbanded around late 1899. There is no mention of them in Papers Past after this date. (Image taken from the British Badge Forum - member John (Tinto)).
- Opposite: A image taken from the New Zealand Graphic, Volume XVIII, Issue X, 6 March 1897, Page 281, showing a Sgt McFarlane of the Honorary Reserve Corps in a different styled uniform as metioned above. Note you can just make out that he wears the above collars with larger matching Cap badge to his slouch hat. |
Woolston Rifles (Canterbury District)
Strength: 1885 - 48 Officers, NCO and Men.
Christchurch Rifles (North Canterbury District - Accepted 1st Jan 1883 - Amalgamated with Christchurch City Guards in 1894 and ceased to exist)
Strength: 1889 - 71 (63), 1890 - 55, 1891 - 48 (63), 1892 - 51, 1893 - 61 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; black helmets.
Heathcote Rifles (North Canterbury District - Accepted 20th Aug 1886 - Disbanded 19th Dec 1889)
Strength: 1886 - 31, 1889 - 41 (63) Officers, NCO and Men. Comanding Officer Lieut Charles Augustus Calvert (mentioned Dec 1886)
Timaru Naval Artillery (South Canterbury District - Accepted 1st Jan 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 60, 1889 - 51 (48), 1890 - 52, 1891 - 66 (48), 1892 - 74, 1893 - 65, 1894 - 81, 1895 - 77 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1885 - 48 Officers, NCO and Men.
Christchurch Rifles (North Canterbury District - Accepted 1st Jan 1883 - Amalgamated with Christchurch City Guards in 1894 and ceased to exist)
Strength: 1889 - 71 (63), 1890 - 55, 1891 - 48 (63), 1892 - 51, 1893 - 61 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; black helmets.
Heathcote Rifles (North Canterbury District - Accepted 20th Aug 1886 - Disbanded 19th Dec 1889)
Strength: 1886 - 31, 1889 - 41 (63) Officers, NCO and Men. Comanding Officer Lieut Charles Augustus Calvert (mentioned Dec 1886)
Timaru Naval Artillery (South Canterbury District - Accepted 1st Jan 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 60, 1889 - 51 (48), 1890 - 52, 1891 - 66 (48), 1892 - 74, 1893 - 65, 1894 - 81, 1895 - 77 Officers, NCO and Men.
Earlier Formations
Canterbury Rifle Volunteers
A number of Militia Companies formed in the region as early as 1861, and are recorded as follows in Papers Past:
No.1 Company, Canterbury Rifle Volunteers (mentioned first on the 20 Oct 1864/1 Apr 1865 - OC Capt Crosbie Ward - mentioned last 8 Sept 1874)
No.2 Company, Canterbury Rifle Volunteers (mentioned first on 20 Oct 1864/1 Apr 1865 - OC Lieut R.J. S. Harman/26 Jan 1866 - OC Capt George Packe - Mentioned defunct 20 Oct 1882) Became Royal Irish Company, Canterbury Rifle Volunteers on 13th April 1871
No.3 Company, Canterbury Rifle Volunteers (Lyttleton - mentioned first on the 6 Feb 1861 - OC Capt Frederick J. Moss)
No.4 Company, Canterbury Rifle Volunteers (Rangiora - mentioned first on the 6 Feb 1861 - OC Capt Crosbie Ward)/8 Apr 1867 - OC Capt James A. Poole
Uniform described as "undress jackets of Blue serge, trousers Blue serge, black cloth caps - 3 Oct 1864)
No.5 Company, Canterbury Rifle Volunteers (Kaiapoi - formed 8th Oct 1864 - 13 Apr 1871 - OC Lieut James Craig)
No.6 Company, Canterbury Rifle Volunteers (Christchurch - mentioned first on the 31 Jan 1868/6 Jan 1869 - Capt Jas Geo. Hawkes).
Became City Guards Company, Canterbury Rifle Volunteers - 13th April 1871
No.7 Company, Canterbury Rifle Volunteers (Timaru - 30 Mar 1865 - OC WM. Fred. Moore/7 May 1867 - Lieut Stanley Seymour)
No.8 Company, Canterbury Rifle Volunteers (mentioned first on the 13 Feb 1867)
A number of Militia Companies formed in the region as early as 1861, and are recorded as follows in Papers Past:
No.1 Company, Canterbury Rifle Volunteers (mentioned first on the 20 Oct 1864/1 Apr 1865 - OC Capt Crosbie Ward - mentioned last 8 Sept 1874)
No.2 Company, Canterbury Rifle Volunteers (mentioned first on 20 Oct 1864/1 Apr 1865 - OC Lieut R.J. S. Harman/26 Jan 1866 - OC Capt George Packe - Mentioned defunct 20 Oct 1882) Became Royal Irish Company, Canterbury Rifle Volunteers on 13th April 1871
No.3 Company, Canterbury Rifle Volunteers (Lyttleton - mentioned first on the 6 Feb 1861 - OC Capt Frederick J. Moss)
No.4 Company, Canterbury Rifle Volunteers (Rangiora - mentioned first on the 6 Feb 1861 - OC Capt Crosbie Ward)/8 Apr 1867 - OC Capt James A. Poole
Uniform described as "undress jackets of Blue serge, trousers Blue serge, black cloth caps - 3 Oct 1864)
No.5 Company, Canterbury Rifle Volunteers (Kaiapoi - formed 8th Oct 1864 - 13 Apr 1871 - OC Lieut James Craig)
No.6 Company, Canterbury Rifle Volunteers (Christchurch - mentioned first on the 31 Jan 1868/6 Jan 1869 - Capt Jas Geo. Hawkes).
Became City Guards Company, Canterbury Rifle Volunteers - 13th April 1871
No.7 Company, Canterbury Rifle Volunteers (Timaru - 30 Mar 1865 - OC WM. Fred. Moore/7 May 1867 - Lieut Stanley Seymour)
No.8 Company, Canterbury Rifle Volunteers (mentioned first on the 13 Feb 1867)
1st Battalion Canterbury Rifle Volunteers - Accepted 26th Jan 1886
The battalion was described as follows at a parade which took place on the 14th of October 1886:
Officer Commanding - Major Joyce
A Company - (Christchurch City Guards - OC Capt Bishop) - 50 Officers & Men
B Company - (Christ College Rifles - OC Capt Harper) - 45 Officers & Men
C Company - (Christchurch Rifles - OC Capt Richards) - 54 Officers & Men
D Company - (Sydenham Rifles - OC Capt Coxon) - 53 Officers & Men
E Company - (Canterbury Scottish Rifles - OC Capt Campbell) - 53 Officers & Men
F Company - (Richmond Rifles - OC Capt Bowron) - 42 Officers & Men
G Company - (Canterbury Irish Rifles - OC Capt Loughrey) - 53 Officers & Men
Garrison Band - (Bandmaster Dorn) - 27 Officers & Men
Not mentioned
- Kaiapoi Rifle Volunteers
- Opposite: A white metal Helmet plate to either the Canterbury Rifle Volunteers, or potentially the Christchurch Rifle Volunteers (CRV). Just based on the fact that the Christchurch City Guard Rifle Volunteers and the Canterbury Irish Rifle Volunteers both also had similar white metal helmet plates (George Harris Collection).
South Canterbury Battalion Rifle Volunteers - Accepted 14th Aug 1886
- Temuka Rifle Volunteers
- Ashburton Rifle Volunteers
- Geraldine Rifle Volunteers
- Timaru Rifle Volunteers
- Waimate Rifle Volunteers
- Ashburton Guards
In June 1897 it was reorganised to form the following:
- Timaru Naval Artillery Volunteers - formed into a Infantry Corps
- C Battery of Artillery Volunteers - formed into a Infantry Corps
- Temuka Rifle Volunteers
- Ashburton Rifle Volunteers
- Timaru Rifle Volunteers
- Waimate Rifle Volunteers
- Lieutenant-Colonel Moore commanding, with Major Thomas Jowsey (Timaru Rifle Volunteers), Adjutant Lieutenant Sidney Wolf (Timaru Naval Artillery Volunteers), Surgeon-Captain Richard Bowen Hogg (Timaru Rifle Volunteers) and Honorary Captain Henry William Harper (Timaru Rifle Volunteers).
The battalion was described as follows at a parade which took place on the 14th of October 1886:
Officer Commanding - Major Joyce
A Company - (Christchurch City Guards - OC Capt Bishop) - 50 Officers & Men
B Company - (Christ College Rifles - OC Capt Harper) - 45 Officers & Men
C Company - (Christchurch Rifles - OC Capt Richards) - 54 Officers & Men
D Company - (Sydenham Rifles - OC Capt Coxon) - 53 Officers & Men
E Company - (Canterbury Scottish Rifles - OC Capt Campbell) - 53 Officers & Men
F Company - (Richmond Rifles - OC Capt Bowron) - 42 Officers & Men
G Company - (Canterbury Irish Rifles - OC Capt Loughrey) - 53 Officers & Men
Garrison Band - (Bandmaster Dorn) - 27 Officers & Men
Not mentioned
- Kaiapoi Rifle Volunteers
- Opposite: A white metal Helmet plate to either the Canterbury Rifle Volunteers, or potentially the Christchurch Rifle Volunteers (CRV). Just based on the fact that the Christchurch City Guard Rifle Volunteers and the Canterbury Irish Rifle Volunteers both also had similar white metal helmet plates (George Harris Collection).
South Canterbury Battalion Rifle Volunteers - Accepted 14th Aug 1886
- Temuka Rifle Volunteers
- Ashburton Rifle Volunteers
- Geraldine Rifle Volunteers
- Timaru Rifle Volunteers
- Waimate Rifle Volunteers
- Ashburton Guards
In June 1897 it was reorganised to form the following:
- Timaru Naval Artillery Volunteers - formed into a Infantry Corps
- C Battery of Artillery Volunteers - formed into a Infantry Corps
- Temuka Rifle Volunteers
- Ashburton Rifle Volunteers
- Timaru Rifle Volunteers
- Waimate Rifle Volunteers
- Lieutenant-Colonel Moore commanding, with Major Thomas Jowsey (Timaru Rifle Volunteers), Adjutant Lieutenant Sidney Wolf (Timaru Naval Artillery Volunteers), Surgeon-Captain Richard Bowen Hogg (Timaru Rifle Volunteers) and Honorary Captain Henry William Harper (Timaru Rifle Volunteers).
Cadet Corps
Engineer Cadets (Canterbury District)
Strength: 1880 - 58 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
High School Cadets (Canterbury District)
Strength: 1880 - 48, 1885 - 33, 1893 - 51 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet frocks peaked forage-caps white covers. The frocks appear to be made at different tailors, and are of varied pattern.
Timaru Cadets (Canterbury District)
Strength: 1880 - 53 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Timaru Artillery Cadets (Canterbury District)
Strength: 1880 - 43 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Christ's College Rifle Cadet Volunteers (Canterbury District)
Strength: 1882 - 61, 1883 - 68, 1884 - 58, 1885 - 59, 1893 - 57, 1898 - 60, 1899 - 60, 1900 - 62, 1901 - 63, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 65 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Uniform (1893) - Blue frocks peaked forage-caps white covers.
Christchurch Boys' High School Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 60, 1899 - 60, 1900 - 60, 1901 - 63, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 66 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Kaiapoi Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 53, 1899 - 53, 1900 - 45, 1901 - no record, 1902 - 45, 1903 - 46 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Queen's Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 43, 1899 - 43, 1900 - 44, 1901 - no record, 1902 - 42, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Lyttelton Naval Artillery Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1900 - 54, 1901 - no record, 1902 - 35, 1903 - 43 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Timaru High School Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 57, 1899 - 46, 1900 - 46, 1901 - 63, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Timaru Main Public School Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 54, 1899 - 49, 1900 - 49, 1901 - 49 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*The above Cadet Corps highlighted with an asterisk was placed under the control of the Education Department in 1902
Strength: 1880 - 58 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
High School Cadets (Canterbury District)
Strength: 1880 - 48, 1885 - 33, 1893 - 51 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet frocks peaked forage-caps white covers. The frocks appear to be made at different tailors, and are of varied pattern.
Timaru Cadets (Canterbury District)
Strength: 1880 - 53 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Timaru Artillery Cadets (Canterbury District)
Strength: 1880 - 43 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Christ's College Rifle Cadet Volunteers (Canterbury District)
Strength: 1882 - 61, 1883 - 68, 1884 - 58, 1885 - 59, 1893 - 57, 1898 - 60, 1899 - 60, 1900 - 62, 1901 - 63, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 65 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Uniform (1893) - Blue frocks peaked forage-caps white covers.
Christchurch Boys' High School Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 60, 1899 - 60, 1900 - 60, 1901 - 63, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 66 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Kaiapoi Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 53, 1899 - 53, 1900 - 45, 1901 - no record, 1902 - 45, 1903 - 46 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Queen's Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 43, 1899 - 43, 1900 - 44, 1901 - no record, 1902 - 42, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Lyttelton Naval Artillery Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1900 - 54, 1901 - no record, 1902 - 35, 1903 - 43 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Timaru High School Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 57, 1899 - 46, 1900 - 46, 1901 - 63, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Timaru Main Public School Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 54, 1899 - 49, 1900 - 49, 1901 - 49 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*The above Cadet Corps highlighted with an asterisk was placed under the control of the Education Department in 1902
Otago Military District.
Detachment of Royal New Zealand Artillery
New Zealand Field Artillery Volunteers
B Battery (Dunedin - Accepted 28th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1880 - 139, 1881 - 69, 1882 - 50, 1883 - 58, 1884 - 48, 1885 - 64, 1889 - 57 (53), 1890 - 46, 1891 - 47 (53), 1892 - 53, 1893 - 45, 1894 - 60, 1895 - 50, 1898 - 62, 1899 - 71, 1900 - 85, 1901 - 87, 1902 - 81, 1903 - 65 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Artillery Volunteer. Both full dress and undress in very good order; busbies worn in full dress.
L Battery Artillery (Dunedin - Accepted 14th June 1879 - amalgamated with Port Chalmers Naval's - Accepted 23rd of July 1894)
Strength: 1880 - 89, 1881 - 81, 1882 - 68, 1883 - 52, 1884 - 50, 1885 - 55, 1889 - 59 (53), 1890 - 55, 1891 - 45 (53), 1892 - 55, 1893 - 45 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Artillery Volunteer.
Strength: 1880 - 139, 1881 - 69, 1882 - 50, 1883 - 58, 1884 - 48, 1885 - 64, 1889 - 57 (53), 1890 - 46, 1891 - 47 (53), 1892 - 53, 1893 - 45, 1894 - 60, 1895 - 50, 1898 - 62, 1899 - 71, 1900 - 85, 1901 - 87, 1902 - 81, 1903 - 65 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Artillery Volunteer. Both full dress and undress in very good order; busbies worn in full dress.
L Battery Artillery (Dunedin - Accepted 14th June 1879 - amalgamated with Port Chalmers Naval's - Accepted 23rd of July 1894)
Strength: 1880 - 89, 1881 - 81, 1882 - 68, 1883 - 52, 1884 - 50, 1885 - 55, 1889 - 59 (53), 1890 - 55, 1891 - 45 (53), 1892 - 55, 1893 - 45 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Artillery Volunteer.
- Above: A large, 24mm, 1870 pattern white metal button to the Dunedin Artillery Volunteers. Maker marked to "HOBSON & SONS, 37 & 38 LITTLE WINDMILL St, HAYMARKET LONDON" (B Jones Collection).
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- Above: A small, 17mm, 1870 pattern white metal button to the Dunedin Artillery Volunteers. Maker marked to "HOBSON & SONS LONDON (B Jones Collection).
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- Above: A pair of two piece, gilt brass shoulder title to B Battery - New Zealand Field Artillery Volunteers. Two copper looped lugs to back to each, with a small piece of metal to support the "B" above the "Z" to lower part of title. No evidence of lugs to back of "B". No maker mark and size 31mm by 43mm.
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- Above: A two piece, Bronze, Officers Cap badge to "B" Battery - (Dunedin) New Zealand Field Artillery Volunteers. The top scroll reads "B. BATTERY", while the bottom scroll reads "FIELD ARTY N.Z.". Note the separate wheel to center (image from the internet).
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- Above: A single piece, gilt brass Cap badge to "B" Battery - (Dunedin) New Zealand Field Artillery Volunteers. Note the bottom scroll only reads "B BATTERY N.Z.F.A".
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- Above: A small enamel and gilt brass pin or assoication badge to "B BATTERY N.Z.F.A". Missing tip of crown, it has a brooch fitting in a North/South configuration. Maker marked to "J R GAUNT LONDON". Size 24.5mm by 20mm.
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Otago Division of Garrison Artillery Volunteers
Original company numbering of the Otago District Garrison Artillery Volunteers were as follows:
No. 2 Company - (Dunedin) Dunedin Naval Artillery
No. 3 Company - (Port Chalmers) Port Chalmers Naval Artillery
These were renamed to:
No. 1 Company - (Dunedin Naval Artillery Volunteers - Accepted 28th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1880 - 122, 1883 - 63, 1884 - 63, 1885 - 64, 1889 - 75 (63), 1890 - 65, 1891 - 63 (63), 1892 - 66, 1893 - 68, 1894 - 69, 1895 - 78, 1898 - 81, 1899 - 87, 1900 - 110, 1901 - 107, 1902 - 113, 1903 - 115 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Naval Artillery Volunteer uniform, in good order.
No. 2 Company - (Port Chalmers Naval Artillery Volunteers - Accepted 28th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1880 - not recorded, 1883 - 61, 1884 - 63, 1885 - 68, 1889 - 82 (63), 1890 - 81, 1891 - 67 (63), 1892 - 68, 1893 - 50, 1894 - 78, 1895 - 69, 1898 - 73, 1899 - 78, 1900 - 88, 1901 - 103, 1902 - 74, 1903 - 80 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Naval Volunteer Artillery. Petty officers' jackets :In this corps the petty officers wore jumpers.
- Opposite: A map indicating the location of the Garrison Artillery Positions up to 1910, around the Harbour entrance to Dunedin. It also shows the Submarine Mining Depot and positions of mines if required in to be layed in a emergency. Taken from "The Path To Gallipoli, Defending New Zealand 1840-1915" - Ian McGibbon 1991
No. 2 Company - (Dunedin) Dunedin Naval Artillery
No. 3 Company - (Port Chalmers) Port Chalmers Naval Artillery
These were renamed to:
No. 1 Company - (Dunedin Naval Artillery Volunteers - Accepted 28th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1880 - 122, 1883 - 63, 1884 - 63, 1885 - 64, 1889 - 75 (63), 1890 - 65, 1891 - 63 (63), 1892 - 66, 1893 - 68, 1894 - 69, 1895 - 78, 1898 - 81, 1899 - 87, 1900 - 110, 1901 - 107, 1902 - 113, 1903 - 115 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Naval Artillery Volunteer uniform, in good order.
No. 2 Company - (Port Chalmers Naval Artillery Volunteers - Accepted 28th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1880 - not recorded, 1883 - 61, 1884 - 63, 1885 - 68, 1889 - 82 (63), 1890 - 81, 1891 - 67 (63), 1892 - 68, 1893 - 50, 1894 - 78, 1895 - 69, 1898 - 73, 1899 - 78, 1900 - 88, 1901 - 103, 1902 - 74, 1903 - 80 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Naval Volunteer Artillery. Petty officers' jackets :In this corps the petty officers wore jumpers.
- Opposite: A map indicating the location of the Garrison Artillery Positions up to 1910, around the Harbour entrance to Dunedin. It also shows the Submarine Mining Depot and positions of mines if required in to be layed in a emergency. Taken from "The Path To Gallipoli, Defending New Zealand 1840-1915" - Ian McGibbon 1991
New Zealand Engineer Volunteers
Dunedin Engineer Volunteers (No. 2 Company - Accepted 30th April 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 69, 1889 - 61 (48), 1890 - 53, 1891 - 64 (48), 1892 - 72, 1893 - 74, 1894 - 72, 1895 - 74, 1898 - 76, 1899 - 79, 1900 - 83, 1901 - 103, 1902 - 98, 1903 - 98 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Engineer full-dress and undress uniform, the former in very good order.
Strength: 1885 - 69, 1889 - 61 (48), 1890 - 53, 1891 - 64 (48), 1892 - 72, 1893 - 74, 1894 - 72, 1895 - 74, 1898 - 76, 1899 - 79, 1900 - 83, 1901 - 103, 1902 - 98, 1903 - 98 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Engineer full-dress and undress uniform, the former in very good order.
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- Above: A New Zealand Engineer Volunteers uniform to a Sergeant Major, with "D" over "NZE" to the shoulder boards in gilt brass. Likely this is to the Dunedin Engineer Volunteers. Some bleeching damage to top, around shoulders and upper sleeves. No maker label to inside of grey lining material. Note the gilt brass, flaming grenade collars, and the "NEW ZEALAND VOLUNTEERS" gilt buttons to front, back and on shoulder straps (image from the internet).
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- Opposite Left, Middle and Above: The same tunic, just showing close up detail of shoulder strap, buttons to front and flaming grenade Collar badge (image from the internet).
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1st Regiment Otago Mounted Rifles Volunteers
Unit composition of the 1st Regiment Otago Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 1st May 1901
Headquarters: Dunedin
It was made up of:
A Squadron - Otago Hussar Volunteers (Dunedin - Accepted 1st Jan 1883)
Strength: 1889 - 49 (43), 1890 - 51, 1891 - 54 (43), 1892 - 56, 1893 - 51, 1894 - 61, 1895 - 62, 1898 - 62, 1899 - 68, 1900 - 69, 1901 - 97, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 79 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Blue and silver.
B Squadron - North Otago Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Oamaru - initially reffered to as North Troop Otago Hussars - and were a dettachment of Otago Hussars - Accepted 22nd Jan 1887)
Strength: 1889 - 60, 1890 - 33, 1891 - 48, 1892 - 63, 1893 - 63, 1894 - 63, 1895 - 47, 1898 - 58, 1899 - 57, 1900 - 64, 1901 - 97, 1902 - 104, 1903 - 108 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - Clutha Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Balclutha - Accepted 2nd June 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 66, 1900 - 72, 1901 - 103, 1902 - 70, 1903 - 72 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Squadron - Maniototo Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Ranfurly - Accepted 11th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 84, 1902 - 72, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Squadron - Tuapeka Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Lawrence - Accepted 28th June 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 86, 1902 - 70, 1903 - 70 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Squadron - Taieri Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Outram - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1902 - 75, 1903 - 75 Officers, NCO and Men.
G Squadron - Waitaki Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Oamaru - Accepted 20 Aug 1901)
Strength: 1902 - 92, 1903 - 93 Officers, NCO and Men.
Founded 1st May 1901
Headquarters: Dunedin
It was made up of:
A Squadron - Otago Hussar Volunteers (Dunedin - Accepted 1st Jan 1883)
Strength: 1889 - 49 (43), 1890 - 51, 1891 - 54 (43), 1892 - 56, 1893 - 51, 1894 - 61, 1895 - 62, 1898 - 62, 1899 - 68, 1900 - 69, 1901 - 97, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 79 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Blue and silver.
B Squadron - North Otago Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Oamaru - initially reffered to as North Troop Otago Hussars - and were a dettachment of Otago Hussars - Accepted 22nd Jan 1887)
Strength: 1889 - 60, 1890 - 33, 1891 - 48, 1892 - 63, 1893 - 63, 1894 - 63, 1895 - 47, 1898 - 58, 1899 - 57, 1900 - 64, 1901 - 97, 1902 - 104, 1903 - 108 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - Clutha Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Balclutha - Accepted 2nd June 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 66, 1900 - 72, 1901 - 103, 1902 - 70, 1903 - 72 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Squadron - Maniototo Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Ranfurly - Accepted 11th April 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 84, 1902 - 72, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Squadron - Tuapeka Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Lawrence - Accepted 28th June 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 86, 1902 - 70, 1903 - 70 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Squadron - Taieri Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Outram - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1902 - 75, 1903 - 75 Officers, NCO and Men.
G Squadron - Waitaki Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Oamaru - Accepted 20 Aug 1901)
Strength: 1902 - 92, 1903 - 93 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above: A Cap badge to the 1st Regiment, Otago Mounted Rifles Volunteers. Two copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
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- Above: A Pouch badge to the 1st Regiment, Otago Mounted Rifles Volunteers. Two thread bolts to back, but no maker mark.
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- Above: The backs of the Cap and Pouch badge to the 1st Regiment, Otago Mounted Rifles Volunteers.
This badge design was later adopted (with change of title) by the 5th (Otago Hussars) Mounted Rifles Regiment after 1911. Motto: Es Fidelis (Be faithful). - Opposite: A unknown Volunteer Officer (appears Lieutenant, with two pips to his shoulder boards) who potentially has a 1st Regiment, Otago Mounted Rifles Volunteers Cap badge to his white Home Service Helmet. The image appears to be a calling card, but the bottom has be torn off. Still a rare image. |
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2nd Regiment Otago Mounted Rifles Volunteers
Unit composition of the 2nd Regiment Otago Mounted Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 1st May 1901
Headquarters: Invercargill
Motto: Nga Marohirohi (The brave).
It was made up of:
A Squadron - Southland Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Invercargill - Accepted 23rd Dec 1895)
Strength: 1898 - 63, 1899 - 65, 1900 - 113, 1901 - 111, 1902 - 94, 1903 - 92 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Squadron - Mataura Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Gore - Accepted 2nd Feb 1900)
Strength: 1900 - 76, 1901 - 91, 1902 - 92, 1903 - 105 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - Wakatipu Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Arrowtown - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 69, 1902 - 71, 1903 - 67 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Squadron - Kelso Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Kelso - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1902 - 60, 1903 - 71 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Squadron - Murihiku Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Wyndham - Accepted 26th March 1901)
Strength: 1902 - 79, 1903 - 81 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Squadron - Wallace Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Nightcaps - Accepted 13th April 1901)
Strength: 1902 - 69, 1903 - 71 Officers, NCO and Men.
Founded 1st May 1901
Headquarters: Invercargill
Motto: Nga Marohirohi (The brave).
It was made up of:
A Squadron - Southland Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Invercargill - Accepted 23rd Dec 1895)
Strength: 1898 - 63, 1899 - 65, 1900 - 113, 1901 - 111, 1902 - 94, 1903 - 92 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Squadron - Mataura Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Gore - Accepted 2nd Feb 1900)
Strength: 1900 - 76, 1901 - 91, 1902 - 92, 1903 - 105 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Squadron - Wakatipu Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Arrowtown - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 69, 1902 - 71, 1903 - 67 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Squadron - Kelso Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Kelso - Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1902 - 60, 1903 - 71 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Squadron - Murihiku Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Wyndham - Accepted 26th March 1901)
Strength: 1902 - 79, 1903 - 81 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Squadron - Wallace Mounted Rifle Volunteers (Nightcaps - Accepted 13th April 1901)
Strength: 1902 - 69, 1903 - 71 Officers, NCO and Men.
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- Above Left: A gilt brass helmet plate to A Squadron - Southland Mounted Rifle Volunteers. The 2nd Regiment Otago Mounted Rifle Volunteers adopted a standard helmet plate for all its 6 squadrons, with a different title affixed to the badges base, to distinguish which squadron a Trooper was from. Note the "SOUTHLAND" brass banner to base which is attached by two small nuts to back. Three copper looped lugs to back (one behind the crown, two at a east/west configuration towards the base of badge. Size 110mm by 80mm
- Above Right: A superb, gilt Officers helmet plate to a member of F Squadron - Wallace Mounted Rifle Volunteers. The center is fretted out, and has a black backing cloth. Note the "WALLACE" banner affixed separately to base of plate. Three copper looped lugs are to back, with size 109mm by 80mm.
- Above Right: A superb, gilt Officers helmet plate to a member of F Squadron - Wallace Mounted Rifle Volunteers. The center is fretted out, and has a black backing cloth. Note the "WALLACE" banner affixed separately to base of plate. Three copper looped lugs are to back, with size 109mm by 80mm.
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- Opposite and Above: The same gilt Officers helmet plate, to F Squadron - Wallace Mounted Rifle Volunteers which is mentioned above, but this time showing the wooden shield and brass plaque it is mounted on. The inscription reads "Sworn in, Nightcaps June 1901 Presented by Foundation Members". Thankfully the lugs have been kept to the back of the Helmet plate, and are just pushed through holes in the wood.
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1st Battalion Otago Rifle Volunteers
Unit composition of the 1st Battalion, Otago Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 20th of May 1898
Headquarters: Dunedin
A Company - Dunedin City Guards Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 28th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1870 - 68, 1871 - 56, 1880 - 119, 1881 - 93, 1882 - 85, 1883 - 57, 1884 - 61, 1885 - 56, 1889 - 66 (63), 1890 - 56, 1891 - 56 (63), 1892 - 63, 1893 - 66, 1894 - 65, 1895 - 59, 1898 - 55, 1899 - 68, 1900 - 66, 1901 - 71, 1902 - 66, 1903 - 68 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; small bearskin head-dress.
B Company - North Dunedin Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 28th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1870 - 56, 1871 - 58, 1880 - 62, 1881 - 58, 1882 - 58, 1883 - 52, 1884 - 61, 1885 - 52, 1889 - 65 (63), 1890 - 63, 1891 - 61 (63), 1892 - 65, 1893 - 66, 1894 - 66, 1895 - 65, 1898 - 62, 1899 - 67, 1900 - 69, 1901 - 72, 1902 - 61, 1903 - 67 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Kharkee (Khaki), and soft felt hat.
C Company - Dunedin Highland Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 11th March 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 63, 1889 - 70 (63), 1890 - 53, 1891 - 62 (63), 1892 - 67, 1893 - 63, 1894 - 66, 1895 - 51, 1898 - 59, 1899 - 47, 1900 - 61, 1901 - 55, 1902 - 61, 1903 - 54 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Highland feather bonnets.
D Company - Dunedin City Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 8th May 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 50, 1900 - 56, 1901 - 59, 1902 - 51, 1903 - 56 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Company - Dunedin Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 30th May 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 62, 1900 - 59, 1901 - 63, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - Waikari Rifle Volunteers (Dunedin)
Strength: 1881 - 61, 1882 - 55, 1883 - 51, 1884 - 53, 1885 - 60, 1889 - 54 (63), 1891 - 47 (63), 1901 - 63, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 56 Officers, NCO and Men.
G Company - Caversham Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 7th May 1885 & 11th April 1900)
Strength: 1885 - 61, 1901 - 63, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
H Company - Green Island Rifle Volunteers (Abbotsford - Accepted 13th Oct 1901)
Strength: 1902 - 66, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above: A Glengarry badge to the 1st Battalion, Otago Rifle Volunteers. The Huia Feather is two piece, with the tip being separate from the main body of the badge. This example has a relatively straight feather stem, but I have had examples where the previous owner has bent or broken off the stem. Two copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
Founded 20th of May 1898
Headquarters: Dunedin
A Company - Dunedin City Guards Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 28th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1870 - 68, 1871 - 56, 1880 - 119, 1881 - 93, 1882 - 85, 1883 - 57, 1884 - 61, 1885 - 56, 1889 - 66 (63), 1890 - 56, 1891 - 56 (63), 1892 - 63, 1893 - 66, 1894 - 65, 1895 - 59, 1898 - 55, 1899 - 68, 1900 - 66, 1901 - 71, 1902 - 66, 1903 - 68 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; small bearskin head-dress.
B Company - North Dunedin Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 28th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1870 - 56, 1871 - 58, 1880 - 62, 1881 - 58, 1882 - 58, 1883 - 52, 1884 - 61, 1885 - 52, 1889 - 65 (63), 1890 - 63, 1891 - 61 (63), 1892 - 65, 1893 - 66, 1894 - 66, 1895 - 65, 1898 - 62, 1899 - 67, 1900 - 69, 1901 - 72, 1902 - 61, 1903 - 67 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Kharkee (Khaki), and soft felt hat.
C Company - Dunedin Highland Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 11th March 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 63, 1889 - 70 (63), 1890 - 53, 1891 - 62 (63), 1892 - 67, 1893 - 63, 1894 - 66, 1895 - 51, 1898 - 59, 1899 - 47, 1900 - 61, 1901 - 55, 1902 - 61, 1903 - 54 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Highland feather bonnets.
D Company - Dunedin City Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 8th May 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 50, 1900 - 56, 1901 - 59, 1902 - 51, 1903 - 56 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Company - Dunedin Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 30th May 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 62, 1900 - 59, 1901 - 63, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - Waikari Rifle Volunteers (Dunedin)
Strength: 1881 - 61, 1882 - 55, 1883 - 51, 1884 - 53, 1885 - 60, 1889 - 54 (63), 1891 - 47 (63), 1901 - 63, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 56 Officers, NCO and Men.
G Company - Caversham Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 7th May 1885 & 11th April 1900)
Strength: 1885 - 61, 1901 - 63, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
H Company - Green Island Rifle Volunteers (Abbotsford - Accepted 13th Oct 1901)
Strength: 1902 - 66, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
- Above: A Glengarry badge to the 1st Battalion, Otago Rifle Volunteers. The Huia Feather is two piece, with the tip being separate from the main body of the badge. This example has a relatively straight feather stem, but I have had examples where the previous owner has bent or broken off the stem. Two copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above Left & Right: A Glengarry badge to the 1st Battalion, Otago Rifle Volunteers with backing ribbon rolled up to back in the colours of Otago (Blue and Gold).
- Above: A Glengarry badge to the 1st Battalion, Otago Rifle Volunteers with a backing ribbon of Black & White. At this stage the unit it signifies is unknown.
- Above: A opposing pair of Collar badges to the 1st Battalion, Otago Rifle Volunteers in gilt brass. Two sets of D shaped copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark.
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- Above: A pair of gilt brass shoulder titles to the 1st Battalion, Otago Rifle Volunteers. Both have two copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark.
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- Above: A small "O" for Otago, seen worn on the shoulder straps of Otago Rifle Volunteers tunic above a small, straight "NZR" title. Two copper D shaped lugs to back, size 12mm by 8mm.
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- Opposite & Above: A two piece Cap and single piece, white metal Collar badge set to "C" Company - Dunedin Highland Rifle Volunteers. Collars have two copper looped lugs to back in a North/South configuration and are 25.5mm by 15.5mm.
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- Above: A auction house in the UK sold this badge some years back as a Officers Glengarry badge to "C" Company - Dunedin Highland Rifle Volunteers. Not in the books and I have not (yet) seen a photo of it being worn. But have added it for completeness and also whether anyone can confirm it is correct? Two piece, with clearly extra silver frosting applied. It has a very similar backing to the above other "C" Company - Dunedin Highland Rifle Volunteers badge (image from the internet).
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- Above Left & Right: A gilt brass shoulder title with the letters "O.R.V". According to the article which appeared in the "Volunteer Notes" section of the Otago Times, it looks to have been distributed in Sept 1904 to all Companies of the 1st Battalion, Otago Rifle Volunteers, who then would have also been issued with their Company letter of either "A" to "H" to wear above it on their shoulder straps (Image from the internet & Papers Past - Otago Daily Times, 16 September 1904, Page).
- Above: A 1880 23.5mm, white metal button to the Dunedin No.1 City Guards. Fixed shank, and maker marked to back to "HOBSON & SON, St MARTINS LANE, LONDON".
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- Above: A later patterned 23mm, white metal button to the Dunedin No.1 City Guards. Fixed shank, with maker marked to back to "SUPERIOR, RICH QUALITY".
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- Above: A 23.5mm, white metal, 1885 pattern button to C Company - Dunedin Highland Rifle Volunteers. Maker marked to "HALEINSTEIN BROTHERS" (B Jones Collection).
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- Opposite: A post 1902 image of members of D Company - Dunedin City Rifle Volunteers. A group shot of 6 Other ranks and 3 NCO's all wearing the generic 4 star Kings crown New Zealand Rifle Volunteers helmet plate to their Home Service helmets. To their Collars are a pair of the above Kiwi "1st Battalion, O.R.V" round badges.
They would be wearing dark blue helmets, with scarlet tunic's.
The Sergeant to center (seated) is wearing a Red/Scarlet sash.
The photo was taken in Dunedin (image from the internet).
They would be wearing dark blue helmets, with scarlet tunic's.
The Sergeant to center (seated) is wearing a Red/Scarlet sash.
The photo was taken in Dunedin (image from the internet).
2nd Battalion Otago Rifle Volunteers
Unit composition of the 2nd Battalion, Otago Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 1st of May 1901
Headquarters: Invercargill
A Company - Invercargill City Guards Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 23rd July 1867)
Strength: 1889 - 65 (48), 1890 - 55, 1891 - 57 (48), 1892 - 51, 1893 - 53, 1894 - 79, 1895 - 84, 1898 - 59, 1899 - 55, 1900 - 69, 1901 - 69, 1902 - 60, 1903 - 57 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet tunics black helmets.
B Company - Oreti Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 19th Jan 1872)
Strength: 1898 - 47, 1899 - 50, 1900 - 71, 1901 - 66, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 54 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Company - Awarua Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 15th Jan 1883)
Strength: 1898 - 45, 1899 - 56, 1900 - 68, 1901 - 68, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 47 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - Gore Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 13th May 1886)
Strength: 1889 - 50 (48), 1890 - 50, 1891 - 48 (48), 1892 - 48, 1893 - 48, 1894 - 50, 1895 - 43, 1898 - 45, 1899 - 55, 1900 - 63, 1901 - 63, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; helmets; indifferent.
E Company - Mercantile Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 27th Feb 1900 - Disbanded 20th Jun 1907)
Strength: 1900 - 58, 1901 - 56, 1902 - 56, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - Winton Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 16th May 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 87, 1902 - 64, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
G Company - Orepuki Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 62, 1902 - 64, 1903 - 58 Officers, NCO and Men.
H Company - Bluff Guards Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 57, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
I Company - Colac Bay Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 66, 1902 - 69, 1903 - 61 Officers, NCO and Men.
Reserve Corps
Tapanui Rifle Volunteers Reserve (Formed 22nd Jun 1907).
Founded 1st of May 1901
Headquarters: Invercargill
A Company - Invercargill City Guards Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 23rd July 1867)
Strength: 1889 - 65 (48), 1890 - 55, 1891 - 57 (48), 1892 - 51, 1893 - 53, 1894 - 79, 1895 - 84, 1898 - 59, 1899 - 55, 1900 - 69, 1901 - 69, 1902 - 60, 1903 - 57 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet tunics black helmets.
B Company - Oreti Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 19th Jan 1872)
Strength: 1898 - 47, 1899 - 50, 1900 - 71, 1901 - 66, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 54 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Company - Awarua Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 15th Jan 1883)
Strength: 1898 - 45, 1899 - 56, 1900 - 68, 1901 - 68, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 47 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - Gore Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 13th May 1886)
Strength: 1889 - 50 (48), 1890 - 50, 1891 - 48 (48), 1892 - 48, 1893 - 48, 1894 - 50, 1895 - 43, 1898 - 45, 1899 - 55, 1900 - 63, 1901 - 63, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; helmets; indifferent.
E Company - Mercantile Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 27th Feb 1900 - Disbanded 20th Jun 1907)
Strength: 1900 - 58, 1901 - 56, 1902 - 56, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - Winton Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 16th May 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 87, 1902 - 64, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
G Company - Orepuki Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 62, 1902 - 64, 1903 - 58 Officers, NCO and Men.
H Company - Bluff Guards Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 57, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
I Company - Colac Bay Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 66, 1902 - 69, 1903 - 61 Officers, NCO and Men.
Reserve Corps
Tapanui Rifle Volunteers Reserve (Formed 22nd Jun 1907).
A Company - Invercargill City Guards Bugler
- Above: A front view of a Bugler's tunic to A Company - Invercargill City Guards. The 6 brass New Zealand Volunteer buttons to front (8 total - 2 missing) are all marked to back "SUPERIOR QUALITY" (Joshua Moot collection).
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- Above: A back view of the same Bugler's tunic showing the extra crown ribbon to back. Note the two brass belt loops to middle back to support the belt (Joshua Moot collection).
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- Above: A closeup of the lower back of the tunic, showing the "Foot Guards" pattern of tunic tail. All the above 1895 Pat New Zealand Volunteer brass buttons are marked "HALLENSTEIN BROTHERS" ((Joshua Moot collection).
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- Above: The right (when worn) shoulder board with "A" over "I C G" over "NZ" for A Company - Invercargill City Guards (Joshua Moot collection).
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- Above: The left (when worn) shoulder board. Note the woven braid to edge of board. Both shoulder buttons are marked to back "SWORD MAKER (crossed swords), MADE IN ENGLAND" (Joshua Moot collection).
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- Above: A closeup of the cuff's to the tunic showing the 4 button "Foot Guard" type cuffs. All brass New Zealand Volunteer buttons to both cuffs are marked to back to "HALLENSTEIN BROTHERS" (Joshua Moot collection).
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- Opposite& Above: Sadly the double Bugler's cloth badge has been removed from the upper left sleeve, but the outline of it is still there. It roughly matches in size to the above (40mm by 60mm), rather worn example (Joshua Moot collection).
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- Above: A closeup of the Musicians "wing" to the shoulder. with crowned ribbon and tassel (Joshua Moot collection).
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- Above Left & Right: Inside the collar of the tunic is the maker label (torn in half) to "HB" for Hallenstein Brothers and "New Zealand Clothing Factory". This dates the tunic to the turn of the 20th century. ((Joshua Moot collection).
B Company - Oreti Rifle Volunteers
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- Above Right: A superb picture of Father & Son (?) Buglers in the uniforms of B Company - Oreti Rifle Volunteers. Both wear the other ranks helmet plate of the unit to their Home Service helmets (note the difference to the backing badge, with the Star and Kings crown opposied to the above Officers Helmet plate). They also have the above belt center to their belts (Iain Davidson Collection).
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- Above: An NCO's tunic to a Sergeant in "B" Company - Oreti Rifle Volunteers. Three chevrons to just his right sleeve, with gilt brass "NEW ZEALAND VOLUNTEERS" to front, back and shoulder straps. Note the brown or maroon cuff, collar, shoulder strap and back flap colour. To the shoulder strap is embrodered the letters "B" over "ORV" over "NZ", for B Company, Oreti Rifle Volunteers of New Zealand (images from the internet).
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- Opposite Left, Middle and Above: Showing the shoulder strap, buttons and maker label to inside, just below collar at the back. Maker "KAIAPOI WOOLLEN MANUF, Co LTD, CHRISTCHURCH" (images from the internet).
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- Above: A possible shoulder title to the Southland Rifle Volunteers, circa 1904. See above for a similar "O.R.V." which was issued in that year. Two copper looped lugs to back (image from the internet).
- Opposite: A Gilt brass, belt center to G Company - Orepuki Rifle Volunteers. This badge design was also worn as their Cap and/or Collar Badge (worn as either).
Motto: Kia Matenga Ururoa Te Tangata (A man should die like a shark). |
3rd Battalion Otago Rifle Volunteers
Unit composition of the 3rd Battalion, Otago Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 1st of May 1901
Headquarters: Oamaru
A Company - Queens Rifle Volunteers (Oamaru - Accepted 1st July 1875)
Strength: 1898 - 57, 1899 - 34, 1900 - 55, 1901 - 55, 1902 - 58, 1903 - 51 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Company - Oamaru Rifle Volunteers (also referred to as No. 1 Company - Accepted 28th Feb 1866 & 19th Sept 1884 - Disbanded 1893)
Strength: 1870 - 42, 1871 - 72, 1880 - 100, 1881 - 92, 1882 - 96, 1883 - 62, 1884 - 63, 1885 - 78, 1889 - 53 (48), 1890 - 47, 1891 - 52 (48), 1892 - 37, 1898 - 63, 1899 - 33, 1900 - 62, 1901 - 56, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Company - Hampden Rifle Volunteers (Accepted - 29th June 1870 - Disbanded 23rd Aug 1890 - Accepted 7th July 1899)
Strength: 1871 - 42, 1880 - 55, 1881 - 43, 1882 - 53, 1883 - 34, 1884 - 45, 1885 - 38, 1889 - 46 (48), 1900 - 62, 1901 - 72, 1902 - 75, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - Palmerston South Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 17th March 1886, disbanded 1894 - Accepted 1st Aug 1899)
Strength: 1889 - 47 (48), 1890 - 48, 1891 - 48 (48), 1892 - 52, 1893 - 52, 1900 - 66, 1901 - 68, 1902 - 60, 1903 - 68 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarelet, black helmets.
E Company - Alexandra South Rifle Volunteers (Otago - Accepted 2nd Oct 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 57, 1902 - 60, 1903 - 67 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - Queenstown Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 55, 1902 - 59, 1903 - 59 Officers, NCO and Men.
G Company - Cromwell Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 22nd Oct 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 57, 1902 - 60, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
H Company - Duntroon Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 15th May 1901)
Strength: 1902 - 64, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
I Company - King's Rifle Volunteers (Formed 20 July 1904 in Oamaru).
- Above Right: A kings crown (post 1902), gilt brass helmet plate to the 3rd Battalion, Otago Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 1st of May 1901
Headquarters: Oamaru
A Company - Queens Rifle Volunteers (Oamaru - Accepted 1st July 1875)
Strength: 1898 - 57, 1899 - 34, 1900 - 55, 1901 - 55, 1902 - 58, 1903 - 51 Officers, NCO and Men.
B Company - Oamaru Rifle Volunteers (also referred to as No. 1 Company - Accepted 28th Feb 1866 & 19th Sept 1884 - Disbanded 1893)
Strength: 1870 - 42, 1871 - 72, 1880 - 100, 1881 - 92, 1882 - 96, 1883 - 62, 1884 - 63, 1885 - 78, 1889 - 53 (48), 1890 - 47, 1891 - 52 (48), 1892 - 37, 1898 - 63, 1899 - 33, 1900 - 62, 1901 - 56, 1902 - 62, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Company - Hampden Rifle Volunteers (Accepted - 29th June 1870 - Disbanded 23rd Aug 1890 - Accepted 7th July 1899)
Strength: 1871 - 42, 1880 - 55, 1881 - 43, 1882 - 53, 1883 - 34, 1884 - 45, 1885 - 38, 1889 - 46 (48), 1900 - 62, 1901 - 72, 1902 - 75, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - Palmerston South Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 17th March 1886, disbanded 1894 - Accepted 1st Aug 1899)
Strength: 1889 - 47 (48), 1890 - 48, 1891 - 48 (48), 1892 - 52, 1893 - 52, 1900 - 66, 1901 - 68, 1902 - 60, 1903 - 68 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarelet, black helmets.
E Company - Alexandra South Rifle Volunteers (Otago - Accepted 2nd Oct 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 57, 1902 - 60, 1903 - 67 Officers, NCO and Men.
F Company - Queenstown Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 55, 1902 - 59, 1903 - 59 Officers, NCO and Men.
G Company - Cromwell Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 22nd Oct 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 57, 1902 - 60, 1903 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
H Company - Duntroon Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 15th May 1901)
Strength: 1902 - 64, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
I Company - King's Rifle Volunteers (Formed 20 July 1904 in Oamaru).
- Above Right: A kings crown (post 1902), gilt brass helmet plate to the 3rd Battalion, Otago Rifle Volunteers.
- Above: A rare, one piece, center for a Officers helmet plate (HP) to the 3rd Battalion, Otago Rifle Volunteers. Like the above other ranks, they have a large Kings crown HP, with 7 pointed star. This piece then sits over the top of the HP to center. No maker mark, and 5 short tabs to back for afixing it to backing plate (Image from the internet).
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- Above: A Glengarry Badge and Collars (they could be worn as either) to the 3rd Battalion, Otago Rifle Volunteers. This design of badge was adopted after 1911 by the 10th (North Otago) Infantry Regiment, with just a change of title. All three badges have a pair of D shaped looped lugs to back. No maker mark. Motto: Pro Patria (For our country).
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- Above: A white metal and gilt brass belt center to the 3rd Battalion, Otago Rifle Volunteers. Two small brass tabs to back, in a North/South configurations. No maker mark.
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- Above Left: A gilt brass, 24mm button to the 3rd Battalion, Otago Rifle Volunteers. Fixed brass shank to back, with maker mark of "FIRMIN & SONS LD, LONDON".
- Above Right: A gilt brass, 16.5mm button to the 3rd Battalion, Otago Rifle Volunteers. Fixed brass shank to back, with maker mark of "FIRMIN'S Ld, LONDON". |
- Above: A 1872 23.5mm, white metal button to No. 1 Company, Oamaru Rifle Volunteers. Brass backed, with marker mark to "HOBSON & SONS 94 St MARTINS LANE LONDON, W.C".
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- Above: A 25mm 1882 white metal button to No. 3 Company, Otepopo Rifle Volunteers (B Jones Collection).
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Otepopo Rifles Volunteers (Oamaru District - Accepted 28th Aug 1871 - Disbanded 23rd Aug 1890)
Strength: 1880 - 58, 1881 - 52, 1882 - 51, 1883 - 35, 1884 - 42, 1885 - 65, 1889 - 44 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1880 - 58, 1881 - 52, 1882 - 51, 1883 - 35, 1884 - 42, 1885 - 65, 1889 - 44 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
4th Battalion Otago Rifle Volunteers
In March, 1904, the 1st Battalion was re-organised and 6 companies went onto form the 4th Battalion Otago Rifle Volunteers.
Founded 2nd of March 1904
Headquarters: Milton
A Company - Bruce Rifle Volunteers (Milton - Accepted 28th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1870 - 50, 1871 - 55, 1880 - 64, 1881 - 57, 1882 - 55, 1883 - 32, 1884 - 37, 1885 - 42, 1889 - 51 (63), 1890 - 53, 1891 - 52 (63), 1892 - 46, 1893 - 48, 1894 - 24, 1895 - 41, 1898 - 52, 1899 - 46, 1900 - 45, 1901 - 60, 1902 - 56, 1903 - 45 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; black helmets.
B Company - Kaitangata Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 11th Aug 1885)
Strength: 1898 - 56, 1899 - 58, 1900 - 48, 1901 - 60, 1902 - 56, 1903 - 59 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Company - Owaka Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 63, 1902 - 58, 1903 - 51 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - Clutha Rifle Volunteers (Balclutha Accepted 29th July 1870 - Disbanded 18th July 1889 - Accepted 22nd Oct 1901)
Strength: 1871 - 89, 1880 - 68, 1881 - 65, 1882 - 60, 1883 - 34, 1884 - 34, 1885 - 51, 1889 - 43 (48), 1902 - 63, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Company - Popotunoa Rifle Volunteers (Clinton - Accepted 4th Aug 1902)
Strength: 1902 - 63, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
Disbanded:
C Company - East Taieri Rifle Volunteers (Mosgiel Accepted 28th Feb 1866 - Disbanded 20th July 1904)
Strength: 1870 - 53, 1871 - 43, 1880 - 68, 1881 - 70, 1882 - 54, 1883 - 38, 1884 - 47, 1885 - 44, 1889 - 50 (48), 1890 - 45, 1891 - 39 (48), 1892 - 48, 1893 - 35, 1894 - 42, 1895 - 63, 1898 - 41, 1899 - 47, 1900 - 46, 1901 - 54, 1902 - 33, 1903 - 47 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; black helmets.
Founded 2nd of March 1904
Headquarters: Milton
A Company - Bruce Rifle Volunteers (Milton - Accepted 28th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1870 - 50, 1871 - 55, 1880 - 64, 1881 - 57, 1882 - 55, 1883 - 32, 1884 - 37, 1885 - 42, 1889 - 51 (63), 1890 - 53, 1891 - 52 (63), 1892 - 46, 1893 - 48, 1894 - 24, 1895 - 41, 1898 - 52, 1899 - 46, 1900 - 45, 1901 - 60, 1902 - 56, 1903 - 45 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; black helmets.
B Company - Kaitangata Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 11th Aug 1885)
Strength: 1898 - 56, 1899 - 58, 1900 - 48, 1901 - 60, 1902 - 56, 1903 - 59 Officers, NCO and Men.
C Company - Owaka Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 63, 1902 - 58, 1903 - 51 Officers, NCO and Men.
D Company - Clutha Rifle Volunteers (Balclutha Accepted 29th July 1870 - Disbanded 18th July 1889 - Accepted 22nd Oct 1901)
Strength: 1871 - 89, 1880 - 68, 1881 - 65, 1882 - 60, 1883 - 34, 1884 - 34, 1885 - 51, 1889 - 43 (48), 1902 - 63, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Men.
E Company - Popotunoa Rifle Volunteers (Clinton - Accepted 4th Aug 1902)
Strength: 1902 - 63, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
Disbanded:
C Company - East Taieri Rifle Volunteers (Mosgiel Accepted 28th Feb 1866 - Disbanded 20th July 1904)
Strength: 1870 - 53, 1871 - 43, 1880 - 68, 1881 - 70, 1882 - 54, 1883 - 38, 1884 - 47, 1885 - 44, 1889 - 50 (48), 1890 - 45, 1891 - 39 (48), 1892 - 48, 1893 - 35, 1894 - 42, 1895 - 63, 1898 - 41, 1899 - 47, 1900 - 46, 1901 - 54, 1902 - 33, 1903 - 47 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; black helmets.
New Zealand Field Hospital and Bearer Corps
No. 2 Company - Dunedin Volunteer Bearer Corps (Accepted 20th May 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 27, 1900 - 23, 1901 - 53, 1902 - 46, 1903 - 50 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1899 - 27, 1900 - 23, 1901 - 53, 1902 - 46, 1903 - 50 Officers, NCO and Men.
Railway Pioneer Corps
1st Railway Pioneer Volunteers (Dunedin) - founded 30th Oct 1907
Volunteer Cycle Corps
Dunedin Volunteer Cycle Corps (Accepted 20th May 1898)
Strength: 1899 - 27, 1900 - 25, 1901 - 27, 1902 - 30, 1903 - 21 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1899 - 27, 1900 - 25, 1901 - 27, 1902 - 30, 1903 - 21 Officers, NCO and Men.
Other Units not in the above Formations
M Battery Artillery - Queenstown (Lake District - Accepted 12th Feb 1873 - Disbanded 1st May 1890)
Strength: 1880 - 91, 1881 - 80, 1882 - 64, 1883 - 47, 1884 - 43, 1885 - 40, 1889 - 49 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
Arrow Rifles (Lake District - Accepted 28th April 1875 - Disbanded 1st May 1890)
Strength: 1880 - 71, 1881 - 57, 1882 - 59, 1883 - 35, 1884 - 38, 1885 - 50, 1889 - 49 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
Cromwell Rifles (Lake District - Accepted 23rd Feb 1876 - Disbanded 1st May 1890)
Strength: 1880 - 71, 1881 - 73, 1882 - 69, 1883 - 46, 1884 - 44, 1885 - 47, 1889 - 50 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
G Battery Artillery (Southland/Invercargill District - Accepted 19th Jan 1872)
Strength: 1880 - 100, 1881 - 66, 1882 - 59, 1883 - 62, 1884 - 62, 1885 - 64, 1889 - 57 (48), 1890 - 54, 1891 - 48 (48), 1892 - 48, 1893 - 35, 1894 - 55, 1895 - 54 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - New Zealand Artillery Volunteers, in very bad condition.
Invercargill Rifles (Southland/Invercargill District - Accepted 23rd July 1867)
Strength: 1880 - 70, 1881 - 52, 1882 - 94, 1883 - 63, 1884 - 59, 1885 - 54 Officers, NCO and Men.
K Battery Artillery (Southland District)
Strength: 1880 - 77, 1881 - 66, 1882 - 61 Officers, NCO and Men.
Garrison Band (Southland/Invercargill District)
Strength: 1880 - 24, 1881 - 31, 1882 - 34, 1883 - 15, 1884 - 18, 1885 - 19, 1889 - 20, 1890 - 20, 1891 - 20, 1892 - 20, 1893 - 20, 1894 - 20, 1895 - 30 Officers, NCO and Men.
Southland Regiment of Hussars (Southland/Invercargill District - Accepted 19th April 1880, disbanded 1891)
Strength: 1881 - 147, 1882 - 160, 1883 - 62, 1884 - 51, 1885 - 59, 1890 - 48 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 2 Dunedin Scottish
Strength: 1870 - 51, 1871 - 53 Officers, NCO and Men.
Dunedin Artillery (mentioned just as "Artillery" in 1870. The 1871 report on the Volunteers suggest there is just one Artillery unit in the Otago District at the time)
Strength: 1870 - 63, 1871 - 60 Officers, NCO and Men.
Dunedin Cavalry (Otago/Dunedin District)
Strength: 1883 - 63, 1884 - 63, 1885 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
South Dunedin Rifles (Otago/Dunedin District - Accepted 1st Feb 1883)
Strength: 1880 - 54, 1881 - 50, 1882 - 53, 1883 - 34, 1884 - 59, 1885 - 54 Officers, NCO and Men.
South District Ranger Rifles (Dunedin District - Accepted 28th Feb 1866 - Disbanded 1892)
Strength: 1870 - 40, 1871 - 47, 1884 - 32, 1885 - 52, 1889 - 71 (63), 1890 - 64, 1891 - 44 (63) Officers, NCO and Men.
Otago Guards (Dunedin District)
Strength: 1885 - 120 Officers, NCO and Men.
Tuapeka Rifles (Dunedin District - Accepted 6th Aug 1885, disbanded 1894)
Strength: 1889 - 50 (48), 1890 - 48, 1891 - 49 (48), 1892 - 49, 1893 - 51 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; black helmets.
Kiatangata Rifles (Dunedin District)
Strength: 1889 - 54 (48), 1890 - 56, 1891 - 50 (48), 1892 - 52, 1893 - 50, 1894 - 48, 1895 - 44 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet tunics; black helmets. The tunics are of many patterns; helmets also of different patterns trousers of different patterns.
City/Garrison Band (Otago/Dunedin District)
Strength: 1870 - 26, 1871 - 20, 1880 - 22, 1883 - 30, 1884 - 39, 1885 - 29, 1889 - 34, 1890 - 36, 1891 - 35, 1892 - 34, 1893 - 31, 1894 - 28, 1895 - 22 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; in good order.
Ordnance Band (1892 - Reffered to as Artillery Band - Dunedin District - Disbanded 1893)
Strength: 1889 - 20, 1890 - 20, 1891 - 28, 1892 - 26 Officers, NCO and Men.
County/Country Corps Band (Dunedin District - Disbanded 1892)
Strength: 1889 - 29, 1890 - 32, 1891 - 27 Officers, NCO and Men.
Wakari Rifle Volunteers (Dunedin District - Accepted 28th Feb 1866 - Disbanded 1892 - Accepted 11th March 1900)
Strength: 1870 - 50, 1871 - 44, 1890 - 48, 1891 - 48 Officers, NCO and Men.
No.1 Company Wakari Rifles (Otago District)
Strength: 1880 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
No.2 Company Wakari Rifles (Otago District)
Strength: 1880 - 53 Officers, NCO and Men.
West Taieri Rifles (Otago/Dunedin District - Accepted 25th Aug 1885, disbanded 24th June 1890)
Strength: 1870 - 45, 1871 - 60, 1880 - 34, 1889 - 63 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
Portobello Rifles (Otago District)
Strength: 1880 - 61 1881 - 51, 1882 - 41 Officers, NCO and Men.
Waikouaiti Rifles (Otago/Dunedin/Oamaru District - Accepted 18th Jan 1868 - Disbanded 1894)
Strength: 1870 - 43, 1871 - 52, 1880 - 65, 1881 - 52, 1882 - 54, 1883 - 44, 1884 - 36, 1885 - 48, 1889 - 50 (48), 1890 - 60, 1891 - 54 (48), 1892 - 56, 1893 - 44 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet, no facings, black helmets of different patterns.
Waitahuna Rifles (Dunedin District - Accepted 28th Nov 1884 - Disbanded 1892)
Strength: 1885 - 38, 1889 - 48 (48), 1890 - 48, 1891 - 46 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
Dunedin Navals (Otago District)
Strength: 1870 - 81, 1871 - 79, 1880 - 148, 1881 - 150, 1882 - 156 Officers, NCO and Men.
Port Chalmers Navals (Otago District)
Strength: 1870 - 57, 1871 - 97, 1880 - 88, 1881 - 99, 1882 - 83 Officers, NCO and Men.
Peninsula Naval Artillery (Dunedin District - Accepted 30th April 1885 - disbanded 1893)
Strength: 1885 - 56, 1889 - 57 (63), 1890 - 49, 1891 - 60 (63), 1892 - 65 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1892) - Naval artillery.
Peninsula Rifles (Dunedin District - Accepted 16th Nov 1885, disbanded 4th July 1889)
Strength: 1889 - 49 (63) Officers, NCO and Men.
Dunedin Irish Rifles (Dunedin District - Accepted 7th May 1885 - disbanded 1893)
Strength: 1885 - 80, 1889 - 65 (63), 1890 - 63, 1891 - 53 (63), 1892 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet, green facings; black helmets.
Naseby Rifle Volunteers (Dunedin/Oamaru District - Accepted 30th May 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 31, 1889 - 60 (48), 1890 - 63, 1891 - 58 (48), 1892 - 51, 1893 - 48, 1894 - 48, 1895 - 49, 1898 - 52, 1899 - 38 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarelet, black helmets.
I Battery Artillery (Oamaru District - Accepted 1st July 1875)
Strength: 1880 - 81, 1881 - 64, 1882 - 67, 1883 - 62, 1884 - 56, 1885 - 63, 1889 - 47 (48), 1890 - 48, 1891 - 49 (48), 1892 - 51, 1893 - 46, 1894 - 51, 1895 - 44 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Frocks and tunics; blue trousers, red stripe; busbies; white-enamel belt; with cross-belt.
Naval Artillery (Oamaru District - Accepted 19th Sept 1884, changed to Oamaru Naval Rifles in 1895)
Strength: 1885 - 63, 1889 - 63 (48), 1890 - 73, 1891 - 75 (48), 1892 - 56, 1893 - 45, 1894 - 63, 1895 - 57 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Naval Artillery uniform.
Garrison Band (Oamaru District)
Strength: 1883 - 16, 1884 - 17, 1885 - 20, 1889 - 25, 1890 - 25, 1891 - 25, 1892 - 25, 1893 - 25 1894 - 25, 1895 - 25 Officers, NCO and Men.
Riverton Rifle Volunteers (Invercargill District - Accepted 19th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1880 - 84, 1881 - 68, 1882 - 62, 1883 - 43, 1884 - 40, 1885 - 50, 1889 - 60 (48), 1890 - 50, 1891 - 49 (48), 1892 - 48, 1893 - 48, 1894 - 48, 1895 - 43, 1898 - 44, 1899 - 43 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet tunics, blue facings black helmets.
Irish Rifles (Invercargill District)
Strength: 1885 - 41 Officers, NCO and Men.
Bluff Naval Artillery (Invercargill District - Accepted 15th Jan 1883)
Strength: 1883 - 58, 1884 - 49, 1885 - 50, 1889 - 56 (48), 1890 - 100, 1891 - 91 (48), 1892 - 87, 1893 - 77, 1894 - 100, 1895 - 100 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Naval Artillery uniform, in very good order.
Riversdale Rifle Volunteers (Southland District - Accepted 18th Aug 1886)
Strength: 1889 - 55 (48), 1890 - 56, 1891 - 48 (48), 1892 - 53, 1893 - 50, 1894 - 48, 1895 - 56, 1898 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet tunics helmets in good order.
Tapanui Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 66, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 54 Officers, NCO and Men.
Strength: 1880 - 91, 1881 - 80, 1882 - 64, 1883 - 47, 1884 - 43, 1885 - 40, 1889 - 49 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
Arrow Rifles (Lake District - Accepted 28th April 1875 - Disbanded 1st May 1890)
Strength: 1880 - 71, 1881 - 57, 1882 - 59, 1883 - 35, 1884 - 38, 1885 - 50, 1889 - 49 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
Cromwell Rifles (Lake District - Accepted 23rd Feb 1876 - Disbanded 1st May 1890)
Strength: 1880 - 71, 1881 - 73, 1882 - 69, 1883 - 46, 1884 - 44, 1885 - 47, 1889 - 50 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
G Battery Artillery (Southland/Invercargill District - Accepted 19th Jan 1872)
Strength: 1880 - 100, 1881 - 66, 1882 - 59, 1883 - 62, 1884 - 62, 1885 - 64, 1889 - 57 (48), 1890 - 54, 1891 - 48 (48), 1892 - 48, 1893 - 35, 1894 - 55, 1895 - 54 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - New Zealand Artillery Volunteers, in very bad condition.
Invercargill Rifles (Southland/Invercargill District - Accepted 23rd July 1867)
Strength: 1880 - 70, 1881 - 52, 1882 - 94, 1883 - 63, 1884 - 59, 1885 - 54 Officers, NCO and Men.
K Battery Artillery (Southland District)
Strength: 1880 - 77, 1881 - 66, 1882 - 61 Officers, NCO and Men.
Garrison Band (Southland/Invercargill District)
Strength: 1880 - 24, 1881 - 31, 1882 - 34, 1883 - 15, 1884 - 18, 1885 - 19, 1889 - 20, 1890 - 20, 1891 - 20, 1892 - 20, 1893 - 20, 1894 - 20, 1895 - 30 Officers, NCO and Men.
Southland Regiment of Hussars (Southland/Invercargill District - Accepted 19th April 1880, disbanded 1891)
Strength: 1881 - 147, 1882 - 160, 1883 - 62, 1884 - 51, 1885 - 59, 1890 - 48 Officers, NCO and Men.
No. 2 Dunedin Scottish
Strength: 1870 - 51, 1871 - 53 Officers, NCO and Men.
Dunedin Artillery (mentioned just as "Artillery" in 1870. The 1871 report on the Volunteers suggest there is just one Artillery unit in the Otago District at the time)
Strength: 1870 - 63, 1871 - 60 Officers, NCO and Men.
Dunedin Cavalry (Otago/Dunedin District)
Strength: 1883 - 63, 1884 - 63, 1885 - 64 Officers, NCO and Men.
South Dunedin Rifles (Otago/Dunedin District - Accepted 1st Feb 1883)
Strength: 1880 - 54, 1881 - 50, 1882 - 53, 1883 - 34, 1884 - 59, 1885 - 54 Officers, NCO and Men.
South District Ranger Rifles (Dunedin District - Accepted 28th Feb 1866 - Disbanded 1892)
Strength: 1870 - 40, 1871 - 47, 1884 - 32, 1885 - 52, 1889 - 71 (63), 1890 - 64, 1891 - 44 (63) Officers, NCO and Men.
Otago Guards (Dunedin District)
Strength: 1885 - 120 Officers, NCO and Men.
Tuapeka Rifles (Dunedin District - Accepted 6th Aug 1885, disbanded 1894)
Strength: 1889 - 50 (48), 1890 - 48, 1891 - 49 (48), 1892 - 49, 1893 - 51 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; black helmets.
Kiatangata Rifles (Dunedin District)
Strength: 1889 - 54 (48), 1890 - 56, 1891 - 50 (48), 1892 - 52, 1893 - 50, 1894 - 48, 1895 - 44 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet tunics; black helmets. The tunics are of many patterns; helmets also of different patterns trousers of different patterns.
City/Garrison Band (Otago/Dunedin District)
Strength: 1870 - 26, 1871 - 20, 1880 - 22, 1883 - 30, 1884 - 39, 1885 - 29, 1889 - 34, 1890 - 36, 1891 - 35, 1892 - 34, 1893 - 31, 1894 - 28, 1895 - 22 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet; in good order.
Ordnance Band (1892 - Reffered to as Artillery Band - Dunedin District - Disbanded 1893)
Strength: 1889 - 20, 1890 - 20, 1891 - 28, 1892 - 26 Officers, NCO and Men.
County/Country Corps Band (Dunedin District - Disbanded 1892)
Strength: 1889 - 29, 1890 - 32, 1891 - 27 Officers, NCO and Men.
Wakari Rifle Volunteers (Dunedin District - Accepted 28th Feb 1866 - Disbanded 1892 - Accepted 11th March 1900)
Strength: 1870 - 50, 1871 - 44, 1890 - 48, 1891 - 48 Officers, NCO and Men.
No.1 Company Wakari Rifles (Otago District)
Strength: 1880 - 55 Officers, NCO and Men.
No.2 Company Wakari Rifles (Otago District)
Strength: 1880 - 53 Officers, NCO and Men.
West Taieri Rifles (Otago/Dunedin District - Accepted 25th Aug 1885, disbanded 24th June 1890)
Strength: 1870 - 45, 1871 - 60, 1880 - 34, 1889 - 63 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
Portobello Rifles (Otago District)
Strength: 1880 - 61 1881 - 51, 1882 - 41 Officers, NCO and Men.
Waikouaiti Rifles (Otago/Dunedin/Oamaru District - Accepted 18th Jan 1868 - Disbanded 1894)
Strength: 1870 - 43, 1871 - 52, 1880 - 65, 1881 - 52, 1882 - 54, 1883 - 44, 1884 - 36, 1885 - 48, 1889 - 50 (48), 1890 - 60, 1891 - 54 (48), 1892 - 56, 1893 - 44 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet, no facings, black helmets of different patterns.
Waitahuna Rifles (Dunedin District - Accepted 28th Nov 1884 - Disbanded 1892)
Strength: 1885 - 38, 1889 - 48 (48), 1890 - 48, 1891 - 46 (48) Officers, NCO and Men.
Dunedin Navals (Otago District)
Strength: 1870 - 81, 1871 - 79, 1880 - 148, 1881 - 150, 1882 - 156 Officers, NCO and Men.
Port Chalmers Navals (Otago District)
Strength: 1870 - 57, 1871 - 97, 1880 - 88, 1881 - 99, 1882 - 83 Officers, NCO and Men.
Peninsula Naval Artillery (Dunedin District - Accepted 30th April 1885 - disbanded 1893)
Strength: 1885 - 56, 1889 - 57 (63), 1890 - 49, 1891 - 60 (63), 1892 - 65 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1892) - Naval artillery.
Peninsula Rifles (Dunedin District - Accepted 16th Nov 1885, disbanded 4th July 1889)
Strength: 1889 - 49 (63) Officers, NCO and Men.
Dunedin Irish Rifles (Dunedin District - Accepted 7th May 1885 - disbanded 1893)
Strength: 1885 - 80, 1889 - 65 (63), 1890 - 63, 1891 - 53 (63), 1892 - 63 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet, green facings; black helmets.
Naseby Rifle Volunteers (Dunedin/Oamaru District - Accepted 30th May 1885)
Strength: 1885 - 31, 1889 - 60 (48), 1890 - 63, 1891 - 58 (48), 1892 - 51, 1893 - 48, 1894 - 48, 1895 - 49, 1898 - 52, 1899 - 38 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarelet, black helmets.
I Battery Artillery (Oamaru District - Accepted 1st July 1875)
Strength: 1880 - 81, 1881 - 64, 1882 - 67, 1883 - 62, 1884 - 56, 1885 - 63, 1889 - 47 (48), 1890 - 48, 1891 - 49 (48), 1892 - 51, 1893 - 46, 1894 - 51, 1895 - 44 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Frocks and tunics; blue trousers, red stripe; busbies; white-enamel belt; with cross-belt.
Naval Artillery (Oamaru District - Accepted 19th Sept 1884, changed to Oamaru Naval Rifles in 1895)
Strength: 1885 - 63, 1889 - 63 (48), 1890 - 73, 1891 - 75 (48), 1892 - 56, 1893 - 45, 1894 - 63, 1895 - 57 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Naval Artillery uniform.
Garrison Band (Oamaru District)
Strength: 1883 - 16, 1884 - 17, 1885 - 20, 1889 - 25, 1890 - 25, 1891 - 25, 1892 - 25, 1893 - 25 1894 - 25, 1895 - 25 Officers, NCO and Men.
Riverton Rifle Volunteers (Invercargill District - Accepted 19th Feb 1866)
Strength: 1880 - 84, 1881 - 68, 1882 - 62, 1883 - 43, 1884 - 40, 1885 - 50, 1889 - 60 (48), 1890 - 50, 1891 - 49 (48), 1892 - 48, 1893 - 48, 1894 - 48, 1895 - 43, 1898 - 44, 1899 - 43 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet tunics, blue facings black helmets.
Irish Rifles (Invercargill District)
Strength: 1885 - 41 Officers, NCO and Men.
Bluff Naval Artillery (Invercargill District - Accepted 15th Jan 1883)
Strength: 1883 - 58, 1884 - 49, 1885 - 50, 1889 - 56 (48), 1890 - 100, 1891 - 91 (48), 1892 - 87, 1893 - 77, 1894 - 100, 1895 - 100 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Naval Artillery uniform, in very good order.
Riversdale Rifle Volunteers (Southland District - Accepted 18th Aug 1886)
Strength: 1889 - 55 (48), 1890 - 56, 1891 - 48 (48), 1892 - 53, 1893 - 50, 1894 - 48, 1895 - 56, 1898 - 52 Officers, NCO and Men.
Uniform (1893) - Scarlet tunics helmets in good order.
Tapanui Rifle Volunteers (Accepted 10th Sept 1900)
Strength: 1901 - 66, 1902 - 63, 1903 - 54 Officers, NCO and Men.
Earlier Formations
1st Battalion Otago Rifle Volunteers - Accepted 5th July 1866
- Dunedin City Guards
- North Dunedin Rifle Volunteers
- South Dunedin Rifle Volunteers
- Dunedin Highland Rifle Volunteers
- Caversham Rifle Volunteers
- Dunedin Irish Rifle Volunteers
- Wakari Rifle Volunteers
2nd Battalion Otago Rifle Volunteers - Accepted 30th Jan 1872
- South District Rangers
- Clutha Rifle Volunteers
- Waitahuna Rifle Volunteers
- Tuapeka Rifle Volunteers
- Kaitangata Rifle Volunteers
- West Taieri Rifle Volunteers
- Bruce Rifle Volunteers
- East Taieri Rifle Volunteers
1st Battalion North Otago Rifle Volunteers - 28th Oct 1872
- Oamaru Rifle Volunteers
- Waikouaiti Rifle Volunteers
- Hampden Rifle Volunteers
- Otepopo Rifle Volunteers
- Naseby Rifle Volunteers
- Palmerston (Otago - South) Rifle Volunteers
- Dunedin City Guards
- North Dunedin Rifle Volunteers
- South Dunedin Rifle Volunteers
- Dunedin Highland Rifle Volunteers
- Caversham Rifle Volunteers
- Dunedin Irish Rifle Volunteers
- Wakari Rifle Volunteers
2nd Battalion Otago Rifle Volunteers - Accepted 30th Jan 1872
- South District Rangers
- Clutha Rifle Volunteers
- Waitahuna Rifle Volunteers
- Tuapeka Rifle Volunteers
- Kaitangata Rifle Volunteers
- West Taieri Rifle Volunteers
- Bruce Rifle Volunteers
- East Taieri Rifle Volunteers
1st Battalion North Otago Rifle Volunteers - 28th Oct 1872
- Oamaru Rifle Volunteers
- Waikouaiti Rifle Volunteers
- Hampden Rifle Volunteers
- Otepopo Rifle Volunteers
- Naseby Rifle Volunteers
- Palmerston (Otago - South) Rifle Volunteers
Cadet Corps
Queenstown School Cadets (Lake District)
Strength: 1880 - 59, 1881 - 53, 1882 - 51, 1883 - 38, 1884 - 39, 1885 - 33 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Arrow School Cadets (Lake District)
Strength: 1880 - 54, 1881 - 53, 1882 - 51, 1883 - 51, 1884 - 40, 1885 - 20 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Invercargill Artillery Cadets (Southland District)
Strength: 1880 - 54, 1881 - 46, 1882 - 81 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
No. 1, City Guard Cadets (Otago District)
Strength: 1880 - 44, 1881 - 44, 1882 - 47 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Hight School Artillery Cadets (Otago District - disbanded 1883)
Strength: 1880 - 128 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
High School Rifle Cadets (Otago District)
Strength: 1880 - 57, 1881 - 54, 1882 - 91 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Bruce Rifle Cadets (Otago District)
Strength: 1880 - 45 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Waikouaiti Cadets (Otago District)
Strength: 1880 - 44, 1881 - 50 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Sandymount Cadets (Otago District)
Strength: 1880 - 64 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Dunedin Naval Cadets (Otago District)
Strength: 1880 - 66, 1881 - 52, 1882 - 54 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Port Chalmers Naval Cadets (Otago District)
Strength: 1880 - 100 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Middle District School Cadets (Otago/Dunedin District)
Strength: 1880 - 100, 1881 - 100, 1882 - 100, 1883 - 100, 1884 - 100, 1885 - 100, 1891 - NIL Officers, NCO and Cadets.
North District School Cadets (Otago/Dunedin District)
Strength: 1880 - 100, 1881 - 100, 1882 - 100, 1883 - 100, 1884 - 67, 1885 - 100 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Head Quarters Band (Otago District)
Strength: 1880 - 30 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Citizen Cadets (Oamaru District - Disbanded 1881)
Strength: 1880 - 46, 1881 - 47 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
South School Artillery Cadets (Oamaru District)
Strength: 1884 - 69 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Waitaki High School Cadets (Oamaru District)
Strength: 1885 - 54 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Waitaki High School Naval Artillery Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 48, 1899 - 50, 1900 - 41, 1901 - 51, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 65 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Dunedin High School Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1880 - 46, 1893 - 69, 1898 - 48, 1899 - 47, 1900 - 63, 1901 - 51, 1902 - 52, 1903 - 49 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Uniform (1893) - Blue frocks, white facings round blue forage-cap, white band.
Invercargill Boys' High School Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 45, 1899 - 42, 1900 - 43, 1901 - 37, 1902 - 37, 1903 - 61 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Oamaru High School Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1880 - 111, 1881 - 89, 1882 - 79, 1883 - 59, 1884 - 65, 1885 - 95, 1898 - 45, 1899 - 45, 1900 - 41, 1901 - 41 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Oamaru North School Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1880 - 91, 1881 - 74, 1882 - 57, 1883 - 47, 1884 - 52, 1885 - 81, 1898 - 45, 1899 - 45, 1900 - 43, 1901 - 43 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Oamaru South School Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1885 - 90, 1898 - 46, 1899 - 47, 1900 - 58, 1901 - 58 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Palmerston South School Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 45, 1899 - 46, 1900 - 41, 1901 - 41 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Union Street School Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1891 - 44, 1893 - 44, 1898 - 64, 1899 - 64, 1900 - 74, 1901 - 74 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Normal District School Rifle Cadet Volunteers (Dunedin District)
Strength: 1880 - 100, 1881 - 100, 1882 - 100, 1883 - 100, 1884 - 100, 1885 - 100, 1891 - 45, 1893 - 45, 1898 - 96, 1899 - 132, 1900 - 81, 1901 - 81 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*South District School Rifle Cadet Volunteers (Dunedin District)
Strength: 1880 - 80, 1881 - 67, 1882 - 67, 1883 - 67, 1884 - 100, 1885 - 67, 1891 - 40, 1893 - 40, 1898 - 72, 1899 - 72, 1900 - 62, 1901 - 62 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Arthur Street School Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 80, 1899 - 80, 1900 - 57, 1901 - 57 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Lawrence District High School Rifle Cadet Volunteers (Dunedin District)
Strength: 1891 - 57, 1893 - 57, 1898 - 50, 1899 - 50, 1900 - 45, 1901 - 45 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Uniform (1891) - Red frocks and glengarries.
*North-east Valley School Rifle Cadet Volunteers (Dunedin District)
Strength: 1891 - 68, 1893 - 68, 1898 - 66, 1899 - 66, 1900 - 63, 1901 - 63 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Albany Street School Cadet Volunteers (Dunedin District)
Strength: 1891 - 55, 1893 - 55, 1898 - 65, 1899 - 65, 1900 - 59, 1901 - 59 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Tokomarriro High School Rifle Cadet Volunteers (Dunedin District)
Strength: 1891 - 40, 1893 - 40, 1898 - 52, 1899 - 53, 1900 - 42, 1901 - 42 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Uniform (1891) - Naval uniform; in good order.
*George Street School Rifle Cadet Volunteers (Dunedin District)
Strength: 1891 - 55, 1893 - 55, 1898 - 54, 1899 - 66, 1900 - 53, 1901 - 53 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Outram School Rifle Cadet Volunteers (Dunedin District)
Strength: 1891 - 62, 1893 - 62 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Uniform (1891) - Red frocks, glengarries, brown leather belts.
*Balclutha High School Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 50, 1899 - 50, 1900 - 41, 1901 - 41 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Invercargill Middle School Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 50, 1899 - 50, 1900 - 37, 1901 - 37 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Dunedin Engineer Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1901 - 72, 1902 - 76, 1903 - 84 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Port Chalmers Naval Artillery Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 56, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Caversham Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 66, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Mataura Boys' Brigade Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 39, 1903 - 40 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Wakari Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 63, 1903 - 60 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Central School Artillery Cadets (Invercargill District)
Strength: 1883 - 60 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*The above Cadet Corps highlighted with an asterisk was placed under the control of the Education Department in 1902
Strength: 1880 - 59, 1881 - 53, 1882 - 51, 1883 - 38, 1884 - 39, 1885 - 33 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Arrow School Cadets (Lake District)
Strength: 1880 - 54, 1881 - 53, 1882 - 51, 1883 - 51, 1884 - 40, 1885 - 20 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Invercargill Artillery Cadets (Southland District)
Strength: 1880 - 54, 1881 - 46, 1882 - 81 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
No. 1, City Guard Cadets (Otago District)
Strength: 1880 - 44, 1881 - 44, 1882 - 47 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Hight School Artillery Cadets (Otago District - disbanded 1883)
Strength: 1880 - 128 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
High School Rifle Cadets (Otago District)
Strength: 1880 - 57, 1881 - 54, 1882 - 91 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Bruce Rifle Cadets (Otago District)
Strength: 1880 - 45 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Waikouaiti Cadets (Otago District)
Strength: 1880 - 44, 1881 - 50 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Sandymount Cadets (Otago District)
Strength: 1880 - 64 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Dunedin Naval Cadets (Otago District)
Strength: 1880 - 66, 1881 - 52, 1882 - 54 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Port Chalmers Naval Cadets (Otago District)
Strength: 1880 - 100 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Middle District School Cadets (Otago/Dunedin District)
Strength: 1880 - 100, 1881 - 100, 1882 - 100, 1883 - 100, 1884 - 100, 1885 - 100, 1891 - NIL Officers, NCO and Cadets.
North District School Cadets (Otago/Dunedin District)
Strength: 1880 - 100, 1881 - 100, 1882 - 100, 1883 - 100, 1884 - 67, 1885 - 100 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Head Quarters Band (Otago District)
Strength: 1880 - 30 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Citizen Cadets (Oamaru District - Disbanded 1881)
Strength: 1880 - 46, 1881 - 47 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
South School Artillery Cadets (Oamaru District)
Strength: 1884 - 69 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Waitaki High School Cadets (Oamaru District)
Strength: 1885 - 54 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Waitaki High School Naval Artillery Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 48, 1899 - 50, 1900 - 41, 1901 - 51, 1902 - 65, 1903 - 65 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Dunedin High School Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1880 - 46, 1893 - 69, 1898 - 48, 1899 - 47, 1900 - 63, 1901 - 51, 1902 - 52, 1903 - 49 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Uniform (1893) - Blue frocks, white facings round blue forage-cap, white band.
Invercargill Boys' High School Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 45, 1899 - 42, 1900 - 43, 1901 - 37, 1902 - 37, 1903 - 61 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Oamaru High School Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1880 - 111, 1881 - 89, 1882 - 79, 1883 - 59, 1884 - 65, 1885 - 95, 1898 - 45, 1899 - 45, 1900 - 41, 1901 - 41 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Oamaru North School Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1880 - 91, 1881 - 74, 1882 - 57, 1883 - 47, 1884 - 52, 1885 - 81, 1898 - 45, 1899 - 45, 1900 - 43, 1901 - 43 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Oamaru South School Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1885 - 90, 1898 - 46, 1899 - 47, 1900 - 58, 1901 - 58 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Palmerston South School Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 45, 1899 - 46, 1900 - 41, 1901 - 41 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Union Street School Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1891 - 44, 1893 - 44, 1898 - 64, 1899 - 64, 1900 - 74, 1901 - 74 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Normal District School Rifle Cadet Volunteers (Dunedin District)
Strength: 1880 - 100, 1881 - 100, 1882 - 100, 1883 - 100, 1884 - 100, 1885 - 100, 1891 - 45, 1893 - 45, 1898 - 96, 1899 - 132, 1900 - 81, 1901 - 81 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*South District School Rifle Cadet Volunteers (Dunedin District)
Strength: 1880 - 80, 1881 - 67, 1882 - 67, 1883 - 67, 1884 - 100, 1885 - 67, 1891 - 40, 1893 - 40, 1898 - 72, 1899 - 72, 1900 - 62, 1901 - 62 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Arthur Street School Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 80, 1899 - 80, 1900 - 57, 1901 - 57 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Lawrence District High School Rifle Cadet Volunteers (Dunedin District)
Strength: 1891 - 57, 1893 - 57, 1898 - 50, 1899 - 50, 1900 - 45, 1901 - 45 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Uniform (1891) - Red frocks and glengarries.
*North-east Valley School Rifle Cadet Volunteers (Dunedin District)
Strength: 1891 - 68, 1893 - 68, 1898 - 66, 1899 - 66, 1900 - 63, 1901 - 63 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Albany Street School Cadet Volunteers (Dunedin District)
Strength: 1891 - 55, 1893 - 55, 1898 - 65, 1899 - 65, 1900 - 59, 1901 - 59 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Tokomarriro High School Rifle Cadet Volunteers (Dunedin District)
Strength: 1891 - 40, 1893 - 40, 1898 - 52, 1899 - 53, 1900 - 42, 1901 - 42 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Uniform (1891) - Naval uniform; in good order.
*George Street School Rifle Cadet Volunteers (Dunedin District)
Strength: 1891 - 55, 1893 - 55, 1898 - 54, 1899 - 66, 1900 - 53, 1901 - 53 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Outram School Rifle Cadet Volunteers (Dunedin District)
Strength: 1891 - 62, 1893 - 62 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Uniform (1891) - Red frocks, glengarries, brown leather belts.
*Balclutha High School Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 50, 1899 - 50, 1900 - 41, 1901 - 41 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*Invercargill Middle School Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1898 - 50, 1899 - 50, 1900 - 37, 1901 - 37 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Dunedin Engineer Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1901 - 72, 1902 - 76, 1903 - 84 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Port Chalmers Naval Artillery Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 56, 1903 - 63 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Caversham Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 66, 1903 - 62 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Mataura Boys' Brigade Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 39, 1903 - 40 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Wakari Rifle Cadet Volunteers
Strength: 1902 - 63, 1903 - 60 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
Central School Artillery Cadets (Invercargill District)
Strength: 1883 - 60 Officers, NCO and Cadets.
*The above Cadet Corps highlighted with an asterisk was placed under the control of the Education Department in 1902
New Zealand Rifle Clubs
The New Zealand Rifle Clubs formed throughout the country to promote the skill of shooting. They also acted at the time, in NZ history as a Reserve Force to the New Zealand Volunteers.
- Opposite: A pair of New Zealand Rifle Club (NZRC) shoulder titles in gilt brass. Two copper looped lugs to back of each, with no maker mark.
The New Zealand Government from 1861 to 1877 conducted the annual rifle championship meeting.
Intitially for the first 4 years, all competitors fired for the champion belt and money prizes in their own districts.
From 1866, a "Colonial Rifle Meeting", was held in Wellington, and all clubs representitives came to Wellington from all parts of New Zealand at the Governments and Taxpayers expense.
In 1877, the Government of the day, decided to stop the expense and no competition was held that year.
Volunteers decided to run their own competition and in 1879 the New Zealand Rifle Assocation was formed, with the first meeting in Nelson.
The Government contributed with a grant of ammunition, while the cost of preparing the ranges and targets was taken up by the Association.
By 1901, the association was unable to continue due to finacial difficulty, and the Government took over, with a name change to the New Zealand Defence Forces Rifle Association, but with the old executive of the New Zealand Rifle Association still running the organisation.
In 1911 the name changed to the Dominion Rifle Association, which continued its annual meetings at Trentham Military Camp (exeept during 1914 to 1918) until 1921.
In 1923, the name changed again, to the National Rifle Assocation.
At the same time, the New Zealand Army Rifle Assciation also formed, with its younger, military members complimenting the National Rifle Assocation and feeding into it in later life.
As reported at the time, the organisations aims were:
"to develop its work upon the most, practical lines. It endeavoured to move with the times, and its programmes included many military matches. The association always contrived to combine, as far as possible, the requirements of military shooting and the promotion of national sport, thus qualifying men for the defence of New Zealand in the event of such a necessity arising."
The National Rifle Association of New Zealand continues today.
- Opposite: A pair of New Zealand Rifle Club (NZRC) shoulder titles in gilt brass. Two copper looped lugs to back of each, with no maker mark.
The New Zealand Government from 1861 to 1877 conducted the annual rifle championship meeting.
Intitially for the first 4 years, all competitors fired for the champion belt and money prizes in their own districts.
From 1866, a "Colonial Rifle Meeting", was held in Wellington, and all clubs representitives came to Wellington from all parts of New Zealand at the Governments and Taxpayers expense.
In 1877, the Government of the day, decided to stop the expense and no competition was held that year.
Volunteers decided to run their own competition and in 1879 the New Zealand Rifle Assocation was formed, with the first meeting in Nelson.
The Government contributed with a grant of ammunition, while the cost of preparing the ranges and targets was taken up by the Association.
By 1901, the association was unable to continue due to finacial difficulty, and the Government took over, with a name change to the New Zealand Defence Forces Rifle Association, but with the old executive of the New Zealand Rifle Association still running the organisation.
In 1911 the name changed to the Dominion Rifle Association, which continued its annual meetings at Trentham Military Camp (exeept during 1914 to 1918) until 1921.
In 1923, the name changed again, to the National Rifle Assocation.
At the same time, the New Zealand Army Rifle Assciation also formed, with its younger, military members complimenting the National Rifle Assocation and feeding into it in later life.
As reported at the time, the organisations aims were:
"to develop its work upon the most, practical lines. It endeavoured to move with the times, and its programmes included many military matches. The association always contrived to combine, as far as possible, the requirements of military shooting and the promotion of national sport, thus qualifying men for the defence of New Zealand in the event of such a necessity arising."
The National Rifle Association of New Zealand continues today.
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- Above: A polished, silver, two piece medal awarded by the New Zealand Army Rifle Association in 1923 to Pte. K McFalane - 2nd Bn WIR for the Lewis Gun. It is marked "Bock" to back base and "Stg Sil". The Auckland Muesum has a bronze example of this award, which is attached to a medal bar, with blue ribbon attached by a ring which goes through the loop to back.
- Opposite: A cast silver plated brass badge to the Upper Hut Rifle Club. A much later badge, with a brooch fitting to back. No maker mark.
- Opposite: A cast silver plated brass badge to the Upper Hut Rifle Club. A much later badge, with a brooch fitting to back. No maker mark.
New Zealand Coronation Contingents
The New Zealand Government sent Jubilee and Coronation Contingents to England in honor of each British Monarch (who is also New Zealand's head of state). Some wore their own distinctive badges and buttons. It started with Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee in 1897, where a white metal badge was worn (I do not have).
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- Above: Same token, to reverse, with the depiction of Admiral Nelson's ship, H.M.S Victory and "Nelson's Celebrations, Palmam Qui Meruit Ferat". Size 31.5mm diameter.
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- Opposite: A 1911 produced Silver Fern Collar badge, worn only for the Coronation of George V and worn by the NZ Defense Force personnel sent as part of the Coronation Contingent to England. They are made opposing, with the other side worn as a left collar and on the side of the slouch hat (see below).
Two copper D shaped lugs to back. Size 32mm by 61.5mm (roughly, my stem to the fern is bent back).
Note: Be very careful with this badge, as it has been faked in the 1980's. Thankfully easy to spot as there is no detail to back, i.e. it's solid, and not die stamped like the originals, and the lugs appear white metal.
Two copper D shaped lugs to back. Size 32mm by 61.5mm (roughly, my stem to the fern is bent back).
Note: Be very careful with this badge, as it has been faked in the 1980's. Thankfully easy to spot as there is no detail to back, i.e. it's solid, and not die stamped like the originals, and the lugs appear white metal.
- Above: A 1911, 25mm white metal button for the Coronation of George V. Maker marked to "HOBSON & SON, LEXINGTON St, LONDON".
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- Above: A 1911, 16.5mm, white metal button for the Coronation of George V. Maker marked to "HOBSON & SON, LEXINGTON, LONDON". (B Jones collection).
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- Above: A 1911, 16.9mm, gilt brass button for the Coronation of George V. Maker marked to "HOBSON & SONS LONDON" (B Jones collection).
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- Opposite & Above: Sergeant Joseph George Faulknor (pictured left) was a member of the 1911 Coronation Contingent, and is seen here in his black tunic, with black slouch hat, striped (Black & White) puggaree and pale riding breeches. Note his Collar badges, which have tips of ferns facing back. There is also a Fern to the side of his slouch hat, but sadly can only slightly be seen. He served in the NZ Field Artillery in WW1 (2/609), but sadly died of his wounds on the 7th of June 1915.
Above is a group shot showing mainly New Zealand Officers, dignitaries and their wives at the Duke of Yorks School, London. Note the Officer with the white topped peaked Cap (front row, left), showing Fern leaf badge to front, with point to his left. Other Officers can just be seen with the badge to the side of the flap of their slouch hat. Both pictured were donated to the Wellington Museum, by a Mr S Faulknor, in 1973. Te Papa (O.040795 & PS.003303) |
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In 1937, New Zealand again sent a Coronation Contingent to the Crowning of George VI and Elizabeth as King and Queen of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth.
- Above: A special gilt brass badge was struck with the words "Coronation 1937" to lower banner and worn by Army members of the Coronation Contingent. Either side are the collars worn with this badge, which are also worn at the time by members of the New Zealand Permanent Staff Corps. All have looped lugs to back, but none are maker marked. |
- Above: An image of a New Zealand 1911 Coronation Contingent Slouch Hat made by Hobson & Sons of London. It was gifted by Dame Elizabeth Knox Gilmer, in 1955 to the Wellington Museum - Te Papa, and is held in their collection. Note the colour of the Hat and what it would have looked like with the Tunic and Silver Fern Badges (Te Papa PC000774).
In 1952 (Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II) and 2023 (Coronation of King Charles III) New Zealand also sent members of the New Zealand Defense Force as Coronation Contingents. No special badges were struck to be worn for the occasions.
In 1952 (Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II) and 2023 (Coronation of King Charles III) New Zealand also sent members of the New Zealand Defense Force as Coronation Contingents. No special badges were struck to be worn for the occasions.
New Zealand Chaplains' Department.
Chaplains first served with New Zealand Forces in the Maori Wars. Then during the 2nd Boer War of 1899 to 1902, Army Chaplains were sent overseas with the 8th, 9th and 10th NZ Mounted Rifle Contingents.
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- Above: A bullion and cloth Cap badge to the British Royal Chaplains Department, but also avaliable for wear by members of the New Zealand Army Chaplains Department (Image from the internet).
- Above: At some stage prior to 1911, members of the NZ Army Chaplains Department started to wear metal insignia. The Collars to this badge are also worn post 1911, and with the addition of a Kings crown (see NZ Corps A-N). Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back of this darkened brass badge, with no maker mark. Size 27mm by 27mm.
- Opposite: The first Chaplains badges were in bullion thread and cloth. Here is a image post Boer War of Rev John Aldred Luxford, who served both in the Boar War, Territorial Force and WW1. He is wearing his bullion cloth Chaplains insignia on both his Cap, and tunic, and also his Queens South Africa medal with bar. He reached the rank of Colonel or Chaplain 1st Class during WW1. Image is dated 1910 (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 31-59358). |
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