Lessons from History: New Zealand Military Procurement and Logistics 1857-1861

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The object is to make these forces (New Zealand Militia and Volunteer Forces) as effective as possible against irregular infantry, whose mode of warfare is skirmishing on broken ground, generally covered in fern and scrub”.

Memoradium Frederick Whittaker to Colonial Secertary, 27 April 1860

The military logistics history of New Zealand in the 19th century unfolds as a saga of strategic vision, administrative challenges, and coordination amidst escalating tensions and clashes between settlers and Māori in the mid-1800s. This era was characterised by legislative endeavours, notably marked by the passage of the Militia Act of 1858 by the New Zealand Parliament. At the heart of implementing this legislation were the logistical requisitions directed towards Hebbert and Co, a London-based military outfitter with extensive contracts across various British territories. These requisitions underscored the planning and resource allocation needed to equip New Zealand’s burgeoning militia and volunteer forces.

The initial requisition, initiated in June 1859, marked the first step towards enhancing the colony’s defensive capabilities. It encompassed a comprehensive array of arms, ammunition, and accoutrements, reflecting the latest standards utilised by the British Army and deemed essential for military readiness. Subsequent requisitions, driven by evolving strategic needs and logistical deficiencies, further highlighted the intricacies of managing the supply chain within a colonial context.

Recognising the broader implications for contemporary military logisticians is imperative for grasping the significance of these requisitions. Beyond their historical narrative, procurement, transportation, and inventory management complexities offer timeless insights into the enduring challenges logistics professionals face in ensuring operational readiness. As we delve deeper into the complexities of these requisitions and their outcomes, it becomes evident that the legacy of strategic foresight and logistical prowess perseveres. The lessons extracted from this historical chapter stand as a testament to the enduring relevance of effective logistical planning and execution in military operations, both past and present.

Preparing for conflict

The escalating tensions between settlers and Māori and the lessons of the conflicts of 1845/6 led to the acceptance that a robust force capable of deployment throughout New Zealand was necessary. In response, in May 1858, the New Zealand Parliament enacted the Militia Act of 1858. This legislation maintained the Militia’s role in defending fixed locations, obliging all eligible men to serve within their designated areas. However, it also introduced provisions for establishing volunteer units, granting them the flexibility to operate anywhere in the colony and exempting their members from militia duty. [1]

The Act restructured the country into militia districts supported by a small permanent training staff. It established a central command hub in Auckland, administered by Captain (later Lieutenant Colonel) Henry Colin Balneavis as the Deputy Adjutant General of Militia and Volunteers.[2]

Colonel Balneavis, circa 1900, by William Francis Gordon, Hartley Webster. Purchased 1916. Te Papa (O.011955/02)

Since the inception of the first New Zealand Militia units in 1845, the government had assumed responsibility for supplying arms and equipment to the Militia. The supply of Arms and equipment was initially sourced through commercial purchases and government sources such as the Colonial Store in Australia, the Ordnance Department and British Regiments, including 500 flint muskets acquired and distributed in 1845. However, as Militia units were disbanded, arms on distribution to the Militia were recalled and returned to the local magistrate, police or Ordnance Stores for safekeeping.[3] In August 1850, Major General George Dean Pitt, the Commander of the forces 1848-51, initiated a military enhancement program, which included upgrades to Wellington’s Mount Cook Barracks, Auckland’s Albert Barracks, and Fort Britomart. As part of this initiative, he also requested 500 percussion muskets from England to replace 500 flint muskets then stored by the Ordnance Store on behalf of the New Zealand Government. In May 1852, the 500 flint muskets were returned to England, while the new percussion weapons remained in the Ordnance Store.[4] However, many more Flint muskets inevitably remained in storage in the provinces.

While the Ordnance Store and British Regiments were naturally considered the primary source of military supplies for the colony, their capacity to provide stores during peacetime was constrained by an order issued by Lord Panmure, the Secretary of State for War, on 17th April 1856.[5] This directive stipulated that supplies could only be allocated to the colonial government following approval from the Secretary of State for War. However, in cases of emergency declared by the Governor, stores could be released under the condition that the colonial government reimbursed the British Government for the expenses incurred, including a 15% fee for packaging, transportation, warehousing, etc.

Panmure’s directive came into question in March 1857 when Colonel Robert Wynyard of the 58th Regiment imported 1,600 percussion rifles and 669,000 rounds of ball ammunition. Since these goods arrived before Balneavis assumed the role of Militia adjutant, the distribution of these arms remains somewhat ambiguous. Nevertheless, records indicate that 200 weapons were assigned to the Taranaki Militia, while the allocation of 1,000 rifles to Auckland was less transparent. This issue was eventually resolved, affirming the New Zealand Government’s responsibility for providing and supplying militia stores to its military and volunteer forces.

From May 1858, Balneavis began taking on charge government arms held in the 58th Regiment Armoury and the Ordnance Store, yielding varying results. During the handover of arms from the 58th armoury in May 1858, Balneavis only received 200 percussion muskets, 66 flint muskets, and 12 cases containing cutlasses, boarding spikes, old belts and other assorted accoutrements. However, the arms taken on charge from the Ordnance Store proved more fruitful. Balneavis acquired the 500 percussion muskets received in 1852 and four cases containing 120 percussion carbines with bayonets, scabbards, and additional equipment. The carbines, unused and in pristine condition, were of the same type utilised by the Auckland Police. However, there was no record of how they had been incorporated into Government service. It was speculated that they might have been included in a batch brought to New Zealand by Governor Grey in 1846 for settlers or friendly Māori. However, they were placed into the Ordnance Stores and remained unissued.

Fuelled by the potential of escalating conflict in Taranaki, the Militia experienced a resurgence, along with the formation of volunteer units, prompting the Legislative Council to place a requisition in June 1859 for arms and accoutrements on London merchants Messrs Hebbert and Co to meet its commitment to supply all militia and volunteer forces.

Messrs Hebbert and Co, a London-based military outfitter/contractor established in 1815, held contracts with Her Majesty’s Home, Indian, and Colonial Governments. Initially focused on army clothing, accoutrements, and cap-making, they also brokered contracts with external manufacturers for equipment they did not produce. In addition to their contracts with colonial governments like New Zealand, Messrs Hebbert and Co supplied items to the Confederate Navy during the United States Civil War.

First Requisition

Sent by the fastest mail to Britain in June 1859, the first requisition consisted of the following items:

  • 500 (increased to 1000) Rifles of the most improved type used by Her Majesty’s troops, with Sword Bayonets, Belts and Pouches
  • 100000 (increased to 200000) Rounds of Ball Cartridges
  • 200000 (increased to 400000) Percussion Caps, and
  • 25000 (increased to 50000) Blank rounds.

Hebbert and Co confirmed receipt of the requisition on 18 October 1859. Although, at this early stage, they could not confirm the manufacturing details, the suggestion was made that to mitigate any possible rejections taking place in Auckland and the inability to provide replacements prior to delivery, inspections under the direction of General Charles Hay, the Commander and Inspector General of Musketry be arranged and on the recommendation of the Deputy Adjutant General of Militia and Volunteers, the New Zealand Government approved this course of action.

Second Requisition

In January 1860, the issue of inadequate arms supply in the colony was brought to the attention of the Colonial Secretary. Given the burgeoning formation of Volunteer and Militia units, it became evident that the current order for rifles would not suffice. Moreover, while Cavalry Arms had been procured for 200 men, there was a pressing need for more to equip the additional Volunteer Cavalry Corps in the process of being established.

Believing that Percussion Muskets might be available in the Military or Government Stores in Australia, arranging for arms to be temporarily lent to New Zealand and returned once the rifles arrived was considered an option. Additionally, a small quantity of rifles and revolvers from Sydney and Melbourne were purchased at a reasonable cost. Ultimately, on 27th April 1860, a decision was made to supplement the initial requisition with a second rerquistions for additional arms, accoutrements and ammunition.:

  • 1000 Rifles and accoutrements to arm Militia and volunteers.
  • 300 arms and accoutrements for Cavalry Volunteers, the desired arms been.
    • 200 Revolving Carbines
    • 100 Revolving Pistols with movable shoulder stocks
  • 500000 Rounds of Ball Cartridges
  • 805000 Percussion Caps
  • 50000 Blank rounds

Additionally, separate from the primary requisition, an order for six Prize revolvers was placed on 28 April 1860.[6] These requisitions were acknowledged by Hebbert and Co on 19 May 1860, noting that communications with General Hay confirming that the Rifles were to be the same pattern as the ones to be supplied for the first order, the type of Carbines was yet to be decided.

Third Requisition

On 3 July 1860, a third request for an additional order of 1000 rifles and accoutrements was placed with Hebbert and Co, bringing the total purchase to 3000. Hebbert and Co acknowledged receipt of this third requisition on 26 September 1860, confirming that the order for rifles would be expedited without delay.

However, Hebbert and Co informed that, upon the advice of General Hay, work on manufacturing revolving carbines had ceased. It was determined that no existing model of revolving carbine was suitable for military purposes, and those produced for civilian use had been discontinued. Consequently, it was decided to replace revolving carbines with a superiorly manufactured breech-loading carbine.

The carbines eventually selected by General Hay were of the type then in use by the Indian Cavalry, resembling the pattern of artillery carbines issued by the British Government. These carbines offered several advantages, including compatibility with the bore, cartridges, and caps used for the rifles. Their sights were initially set for 300 yards but could easily be adjusted for 500 to 600 yards.

Cavalry Carbine. Terry Shattock Collection

The rifles produced by Hollis & Sheath of Birmingham for New Zealand were the latest .577-inch calibre rifles developed under General Hay’s direction. This updated design incorporated changes to the stock and barrel length and weight, rifling, and other specifications, resulting in a firearm that boasted improved accuracy and a more extended range compared to the earlier Enfield pattern. However, these modifications to the rifle design and the necessary adjustments to manufacturing machinery caused production delays. Consequently, instead of delivering the rifles in a single consignment for each requisition, the delivery schedule was divided into seven consignments. The first of these consignments was dispatched from England on 25 August 1860, with the final shipment reaching New Zealand on 19 October 1861.

Hay Pattern Rifle. Terry Shattock Collection

Logistics Preparation to receive arms

As the Deputy Adjutant General of Militia and Volunteers, Balneavis, with a small staff based in the Militia armoury at Albert Barracks, undertook multiple administrative and organisational tasks to establish the various units and satisfy the many requests for equipment submitted by unit commanders.

As the tempo of work in receiving and distributing equipment increased during 1860, assisting Balneavis as militia and volunteer storekeeper was his Sergeant Major and Clerk John Mitchell.[7] Initially employed in 1856, Mitchell was formally employed as a sergeant in May 1858. In recognition of the additional work required in organising and equipping the Militia and Volunteers, Mitchell was awarded an annual salary increase of £80 in 1861.[8] Additional assistance was provided to Balneavis and Mitchell by Mr T Gibbins, who had been employed as an arms cleaner and labourer since January 1859.[9] In October 1861, James Bloomfield joined Balneavis staff as a clerk, remaining part of the Defence Stores until December 1888. [10] To manage periods of increased activity, Balneavis regularly sought permission to hire additional arms cleaners to help with the upkeep of the Arms and Accoutrements in the Militia Armoury. For instance, on 5 December 1861, he submitted a request to employ three arms cleaners at a rate of five shillings per day (equivalent to approximately NZD $9.21 in 2024) for the month. This request was granted on 10th December.[11]

In anticipation of receiving Arms and Accoutrements, on 25th February 1861, Balneavis sought authorisation for the Colonial Secretary to inspect and mark arms arriving from England with a number and to carry out necessary alterations to accoutrements. Regarding the marking of arms, Balneavis obtained a quotation from Auckland gunsmith David Evitt, who proposed a cost of six shillings each (equivalent to approximately NZD $9.21 in 2024) to number up to 4000 arms, including Bayonets, Muzzle Stoppers, and ramrods. The Colonial Secretary sanctioned this proposal on 9th April 1861.[12]

Tawera Shipment

The initial batch of rifles comprised 410 units, with 200 being inspected on 10 August and 210 on 25 August by an armourer sergeant provided by General Hay. Each rifle underwent disassembly, with the locks examined and sights tested. Subsequently, 40 rifles underwent testing by General Hay himself. Throughout this process, 18 rifles were rejected, prompting a reduction of the consignment to 390 to avoid having a partial box of 2 rifles. The first consignment consisted of:

  • 390 Rifles, General Hay Pattern, Calibre .577 in
  • 390 Bayonets
  • 390 Bayonet Scabbards
  • 1000 Muzzle Stoppers
  • Extras for 1000 Rifles
    • 100 Lock Vice Nipple Keys
    • 100 Jags (Ball Drawer)
    • 1000 Nipples
    • 100 Snap Caps
    • 500 Snap Cap leather
    • 100 Muzzle Stoppers
  • Rifle Accoutrements
    • 360 Black Leather Pouches – 50 Rounds
    • 360 Black Leather Pouch Belts
    • 360 Black Leather waist Belts with Brass Snake hook Furniture
    • 180 Black Leather Frogs
    • 360 Black Leather Ball Bags with Oil Bottles
    • 360 Black Leather Cap Pockets
    • 360 Black Leather Gun Slings with Brass Buckles
  • Ammunition
    • 200000 Rounds Ball Cartridges
    • 50000 Rounds Blank Cartridges
    • 400000 Percussion Caps
Extracr from the Tawera Invoice

The consignment was packed into 51 cases for transport on the Brigantine Tawera, departing Gravesend on 5 September 1860. The Tawera arrived in Auckland on 22 December 1860.[13]

Included in this consignment was the order for the six Adams Pattern 54 Bore revolvers, with Bullet moulds, extra nipples, and cleaning rods specially engraved with names and inscriptions.[14]

A presentation Beaumont-Adams. Puke Ariki Accession number A57.362
A presentation Beaumont-Adams. Puke Ariki Accession number A57.362

On receipt in New Zealand, the consignment was inspected by Balneavis, who noted that the consignment had been received in good order except for some Bayonets, which required fitting, and some rifles required cleaning, which was done.

Sevilla Shipment

On 21 September, General Hay’s team inspected the second batch of 320 rifles, with 10 Rifles rejected. The consignment that was packed into 38 cases consisted of

  • 310 Rifled General Hay Pattern with Snap Caps
  • 310 Bayonets
  • 310 Bayonet Scabbards
  • Rifle Accoutrements
    • 180 Black Waxed leather frogs to complete 360 sets sent on the Tawera
    • 340 Black waxed Leather Pouches – 50 rounds
    • 340 Black waxed Leather Pouch Belts
    • 340 Black waxed Leather waist Belts
    • 340 Black waxed frogs
    • 340 Black waxed Ball bags and Oil Bottles
    • 340 Black waxed Leather Cap Pockets
    • 340 Black waxed Leather Gun Slings[15]
Extract from the Sevilla Invoice

In addition to  the Arms, accoutrements and ammunition associated with the existing requisitions, the Sevilla had also loaded an additional consignment of 76 cases of Breech-loading Carbines and ammunition ordered on behalf of the Government by Gilfillan and Company consisting of:

  • 45 Calisher & Terry Breech Loading Carbines
  • 34000 rounds of Breech-loading ammunition
  • 68000 Percussion Caps

These constituted part of a requisition placed on merchants Gilfillan and Company by the New Zealand Government on 4 April 1860 for One Hundred Revolving Carbines. [16] However, Gilfillan and Co failed to procure any Revolving Carbines and instead provided 100 Terry Breech Loading Carbines, which were delivered in three instalments.

  • First Instalment – 20 Calisher & Terry Breech Loading Carbines from Sydney on the Kate, received on 8 May 1860
  • Second Instalment – 45 Calisher & Terry Breech Loading Carbines from the United Kingdom on the Sevilla, received on 22 April 1861
  • Third Instalment – 35 Calisher & Terry Breech Loading Carbines from the United Kingdom on the Bosworth, received on 22 April 1861
Example of a Calisher & Terry .30 bore breech loading percussion carbine. Puke Ariki Accession number A76.911

Loaded onto the barque Sevilla, this consignment of Hay Rifles and accoutrements departed London and, as part of the build-up of Imperial troops in New Zealand, called into Queenstown (now Cork, Ireland) on 20 October to embark two officers and 110 men of the 14th Regiment, along with 20 saloon passengers. After a lengthy voyage of 128 days, the Sevilla anchored in Auckland Harbour on 25 February 1861.

After the unloading of the Sevilla, on 22 April, Lieutenant Colonel Balneavis chaired two inspection boards, with Captain Campbell, the Adjutant of the Auckland Militia, and Lieutenant Wayne of the Auckland Cavalry Guard serving as members. Their task was to thoroughly examine and report on the arms, accoutrements, and ammunition received from England on the Sevilla. [17]

The board’s inspection of the 310 rifles and accoutrements confirmed that the consignment was accurate and of satisfactory quality, noting that an earlier Board Consisting of Captain Campbell, Adjutant 1st Battalion Auckland Regiment and Captain Joyce Adjutant Auckland Volunteers had condemned five rifles on 14 March due to damage caused by rust.[18]

Inspecting the carbines, accoutrements, and ammunition, the board noted that, in comparison to a consignment of 20 Calisher & Terry Breech-loading carbines received from Sydney on the Kate on 8 May 1860, the carbines received from England, while serviceable, were of somewhat inferior quality, this indicates the consignment of carbines from England were Terry’s Breech-loading carbines. Nevertheless, they met the requirements for inspection. The ammunition was deemed suitable; however, it was observed that the inserts in the pouches designed for fitting cartridges were too small to accommodate the carbine ammunition adequately. Though still functional, they would require modification for optimal use.[19]

Bosworth Shipment

In October, General Hay’s team inspected the remaining rifles needed to fulfil the initial requisition of 1000 rifles. On 6 October, 300 rifles were inspected, but 12 were rejected. Another ten rifles underwent inspection on 15 October and passed. Together with the two rifles held over from the first consignment, this completed the consignment of 300 rifles.

The final consignment included the remaining equipment from the first requisition and the total amount of ammunition from the second requisition. These items were packed into 36 cases, comprising:

  • 300 Rifles General Hay Pattern
  • 300 Bayonets
  • 300 Bayonet Scabbards
  • Rifle Accoutrements
    • 300 Black waxed Leather Pouches – 50 rounds
    • 300 Black waxed Leather Pouch Belts
    • 300 Black waxed Leather waist Belts
    • 300 Black waxed frogs
    • 300 Black waxed Ball bags and Oil Bottles
    • 300 Black waxed Leather Cap Pockets
    • 300 Black waxed Leather Gun Slings
  • Ammunition
    • 500000 Rounds Ball Cartridges
    • 50000 Rounds Blank Cartridges
    • 805000 Percussion Caps[20]
Extract from the Bosworth Invoice

In addition to  the Arms, accoutrements and ammunition associated with the existing requisitions, the Bosworth had also loaded an additional consignment of 193 cases of Terry Breech-loading Carbines and ammunition ordered on behalf of the Government by Gilfillan and Company consisting of

  • 35 Terry Breech Loading Carbines contained in 5 cases
  • An unknown quantity of Breech Loading Carbine ammunition in 188 cases[21]

These consignments were transported on the vessel Bosworth, sailing from Gravesend and arriving in Auckland on 6 March 1861, making the passage from England in 108 days.

After the unloading process on the Bosworth, Lieutenant Colonel Balneavis chaired two inspection boards, with Captain Campbell, the Adjutant of the Auckland Militia, and Lieutenant Wayne of the Auckland Cavalry Guard serving as members. Their task was to thoroughly examine and report on the arms, accoutrements, and ammunition received from England on the Bosworth.

The board’s inspection of the 300 rifles, ammunition, and accessories confirmed that the consignment was accurate and satisfactory. However, it was noted that one keg of rifle ammunition, containing 700 rounds and caps, was missing, presumably lost during transit. The ship’s agent reimbursed the government for the missing keg with a cheque of £3.9.6. (2024 NZD $1067.55) [22]

Upon inspecting the carbines, accoutrements, and ammunition, the board noted that in comparison to a consignment of 20 Terry’s Breech-loading carbines received from Sydney on the Kate on 8 May 1860, the carbines received from England, while serviceable, were of somewhat inferior quality. Nevertheless, they met the requirements for inspection. The ammunition was deemed suitable; however, it was observed that the inserts in the pouches designed for fitting cartridges were too small to accommodate the carbine ammunition adequately. Though still functional, they would require modification for optimal use.[23]

African Shipment

As the Bosworth was midway through its voyage, preparations were underway to dispatch the first batch of rifles from the second requisition. On 21 December 1860, General Hay reported that 720 rifles had undergone testing and met the required standards; thus, they were accepted. The consignment, packed into 105 cases, was scheduled for shipment on the vessel African. It included additional stores and accoutrements for 1000 rifles and 300 carbines.:

  • 720 Rifles General Hay Pattern
  • 720 Bayonets
  • 1000 Bayonet Scabbards
  • 1000 Muzzle Stoppers
  • Extras for 1000 Rifles
    • 100 Lock Vice Nipple Keys
    • 100 Jags
    • 1000 Nipples
    • 100 Snap Caps
    • 500 Snap Cap leather
    • 100 Muzzle Stoppers
  • Rifle Accoutrements
    • 1000 Black waxed Leather Pouches – 50 rounds
    • 1000 Black waxed Leather Pouch Belts
    • 1000 Black waxed Leather waist Belts
    • 1000 Black waxed frogs
    • 1000 Black waxed Ball bags and Oil Bottles
    • 1000 Black waxed Leather Cap Pockets
    • 1000 Black waxed Leather Gun Slings
  • 300 Cavalry Swords, Steel Moulded with Steel Scabbard
  • Cavalry Accoutrements
    • 300 Patent Leather pouches – 20 Rounds
    • 300 Buff Leather Pouch Belt
    • 300 Buff Leather Carbine Swivel Heads and carriages
    • 300 Buff Leather Waist Belts
    • 300 Buff Leather Cap Pockets
    • 300 Brown Leather Ball Bags
    • 300 Brown Leather Ball Bag Slings
    • 300 Brown Leather Ball Bag Slings
    • 300 Brown Leather Carbine Pockets
    • 300 Brown Leather Carbine Pocket Straps
    • 300 Buff Leather Sword Knots[24]
Extract of the African Invoice

Scheduled to depart from Gravesend on 2 January 1861, the African encountered delays due to being icebound in St. Katherine’s Dock. Consequently, its departure was postponed until 8 February, arriving in Auckland on 7 June 1861. Alongside the transportation of New Zealand Arms and Accoutrements, the African also accommodated two officers from the 57th Regiment of Foot and a contingent of logistics personnel destined for New Zealand as part of the Imperial reinforcements. This contingent included Deputy Assistant Commissary General Innes, five Commissariat officers and their families, two members of the Armourers Corps, five Royal Artillery Conductors, two Stores Clerks, and one Purveyor’s Clerk.

Waterlily Shipment

Departing London on 11 February 1861 and arriving in Auckland on 18 June, the Schooner Waterlily carried the following items ordered on the second requisition.

  • 100 Best Plain Adams Revolvers with all the latest improvements, 54 Guage
  • 100 Movable Stocks with fittings
  • 10 Bullet Moulds to cast two conical Bullets
  • 10 Cleaning Rods with Jags
  • 10 Nipple Keys
  • 10 Turnscrews
  • 10 Powder Flasks with regulated tops
  • 200 Nipples
  • Revolver Ammunition
    • 30000 Pistol Cartridges
    • 45000 Caps Percussion[25]
Extract of the Waterlily Invoice
Beaumont-Adams with stock. Puke Ariki Accession number A73.333
A flat rectangular wooden case for an Adams patent revolver. The case is lined with green felt and contains the revolver, a wooden skeleton stock, a cleaning rod, two bags of bullets and a wooden percussion cap phial. Puke Ariki Accession number A73.334

Broadwater Shipment

On 4 January 1861, General Hay reported that 303 Rifles had been tested, with 21 rifles rejected, prompting a reduction of the consignment to 280 rifles to avoid having a partial box of 2 rifles. This batch of 280 completed the rifle order for the second requisition. Added to this was an additional batch of 290 rifles of the third requisition, which had also been tested and passed, making a total consignment of 570 rifles for dispatch on the Broadwater. The total consignment consisted of:

  • 570 Rifles General Hay Pattern
  • 570 Bayonets
  • 1000 Bayonet Scabbards
  • Accoutrements for 1000 Rifles
    • 1000 Black waxed Leather Pouches – 50 rounds
    • 1000 Black waxed Leather Pouch Belts
    • 1000 Black waxed Leather waist Belts
    • 1000 Black waxed frogs
    • 1000 Black waxed Ball bags and Oil Bottles
    • 1000 Black waxed Leather Cap Pockets
    • 1000 Black waxed Leather Gun Slings[26]
Extract from Broadwater Invoice

After departing Gravesend on 3 April and a voyage of 114 days, the Broadwater arrived in Auckland on 29 July.

Northumberland Shipment

Following the final acceptance tests by General Hay of the final batches of Rifles and Carbines, the consignment was prepared and included spare parts for the entire 3000 rifles and 300 Carbines supplied. Packed into 98 cases, the consignment consisted of:

  • 710 Rifles General Hay Pattern
  • 710 Bayonets
  • Extras for 1000 Rifles
    • 100 Lock Vice Nipple Keys
    • 100 Jags
    • 1000 Nipples
    • 100 Snap Caps
    • 500 Snap Cap leather
  • Extras for 3000 Rifles
    • 15 Rough Stock15 Stocks complete15 Sights60 Finished Hammers60 Hammers in the rough90 Tumbler Pins60 Main Springs60 Sears30 Forged Main Springs60 Sear Springs30 Tumblers15 Bridles60 Left Lock Pins60 Lock Swivels30 Left Bands60 Left Nail30 Rammers30 Bayonets60 Bayonet Rings9 Guards in the rough15 Trigger Plates30 Trigger Plates30 Butt Swivels30 Band Swivels30 Hammer Springs45 Sets Wood Screws
    • 150 Light slides
  • 300 Cavalry Carbines Rifled sighted to 300 yards, to pattern selected by General Hay
  • Extras for 300 Carbines
    • 30 Cramp Keys300 Nipples30 Jags30 Snap caps30 Muzzle stoppers150 Snap Cap Leather2 Finished Stocks2 Sights5 Hammers10 Hammers in the rough10 Tumbler Pins5 Sets Wood Screes8 Main Springs4 Main Springs in the rough8 Sear Springs8 Sears3 Tumblers2 Bridles8 Sets lock Pins10 Lock Swivels3 Bands5 Rammers5 Rammer Springs1 Guard and 2 Trigger Plates4 Triggers3 Slide Bars10 Rings for Bars
    • 3 Rough Stocks[27]
Extract from Northumberland Invoice

This shipment, delivering the final items of the three requisitions initiated in June 1859, departed London on 10 May 1861 on the vessel Northumberland, arriving in Auckland on 13 September 1861.

As with other shipments, on 19 October, Balneavis assembled a board consisting of Captain Campbell, the Adjutant of the 1st Battalion Auckland Militia and Captain Wilson, the Adjutant of the 2nd Battalion Auckland Militia, to examine and report on the stores landed from the Northumberland. Their report concluded that the consignment was of sound and serviceable quality and that the rifles and Carbines received bore the same as rifles received in previous shipments.[28]

Cost

As detailed in Table One, the aggregate expenditure for all arms and accoutrements procured from Hebbert and Co amounted to £22,272.16.1 (equivalent to 2024 NZD $6,797,770.77). While existing appropriations covered the expenses for the prize pistols, the remaining costs for arms and accoutrements were charged against the 1860 War Loan.

Table One: Arms, Accoutrements and Ammunition procured from Hebbert and Co

Given New Zealand’s constrained revenue, the government found the Taranaki conflict financially challenging. Consequently, in September 1860, a War Loan of £150,000 (2024 NZD $46,765,267.07) was raised to address expenses associated with the conflict, encompassing costs incurred from 1857 up to September 1860.[29]

Table Two: Expenditure on Arms, Accoutrements and Ammunition against the 1860 War Loan
 

Distribution

Since assuming the role of Deputy Adjutant General, Balneavis faced a significant challenge due to his lack of comprehensive information on the total inventory of arms belonging to the New Zealand government and their distribution. However, by September 1860, returns from the districts detailed in Table 3 revealed that 3,417 arms of various types were distributed across all districts.[31]

Table 3 – Distribution of Arms belonging to the Government of New Zealand, 1 September 1860

With this information in hand, Balneavis could confirm the following:

  • Militia units were adequately equipped.
  • Volunteer Cavalry in the Auckland Province were armed with revolvers, breech-loading rifles, and swords.
  • Volunteer Rifle Corps in Auckland and Taranaki were also equipped.
  • Apart from the Auckland and Taranaki units listed above, no other Volunteer Corps across New Zealand were armed.
  • Approximately 550 rounds of ball ammunition were available for every rifle in use, with Taranaki and Wellington holding stock of 2000 rounds each.
  • There was a much larger supply of percussion ammunition for every musket in use.

This information empowered Balneavis to prioritise the redistribution of arms between military and volunteer units, thus expediting the dispatch of new arms upon their arrival from England. With the arrival of the Tawera, Sevilla, and Bosworth, Balneavis issued instructions on 6 and 8 March 1861 to redistribute arms.

  • 200 1856 Pattern (Sword) Short Rifle in use by the Auckland Rifle Volunteers be issued to the different sergeants of all volunteer corps and those remaining to Bands
  • 100 Enfield Pattern 53 Rifles in use by the Auckland Rifle Volunteers be issued to the 1st Battalion Auckland Militia
  • 300 Hay Pattern Rifles to be issued to the Auckland Rifle Volunteers
  • 200 Hay Pattern Rifles be issued to the two companies of Onehunga Volunteers
  • 100 Hay Pattern Rifles be issued to the Southern Rifle Volunteers
  • Hay Pattern Rifles be issued to the Auckland Coast Guard Volunteers (No Qty Provided)
  • As many of the Enfield Pattern 53 Rifles and Enfield Pattern 1839/Pattern 1842 Muskets in possession of the Onehunga Volunteers that Lieutenant Colonel Kenny can spare be returned to the Store in Auckland
  • All further shipments of Hay Pattern Rifles be prioritised for the issue to Southern Volunteer units
  • 80 Terry Carbines be issued to the:
    • Royal Cavalry Volunteers
    • Auckland Cavalry Guard[32]

Summary

In the 19th century, New Zealand’s military logistics history was characterised by strategic foresight, administrative hurdles, and coordination efforts amidst rising tensions and conflicts between settlers and Māori. A significant turning point came with the implementation of the Militia Act of 1858, which led to extensive requisitions for arms, ammunition, and equipment from Hebbert and Co., a military outfitter based in London. Lord Panmura’s directive in 1855, placing constraints on the provision of British military stores to colonial forces, prompted New Zealand to develop a requisition program that relied less on British sources. This initiative, initiated in 1859 and expanded in 1860, aimed to outfit New Zealand’s growing militia and volunteer forces while adhering to the latest standards of the British Army as closely as possible.

The initial requisition in June 1859 marked the beginning of efforts to enhance the colony’s defensive capabilities, with subsequent requisitions driven by evolving strategic needs and logistical deficiencies. The introduction of modern Hays rifles and Calisher and Terry carbines showcased the planning and resource allocation required within a colonial context. Despite delays in production and transportation, the procurement process persisted, facilitated by the dedication of individuals like Lieutenant Colonel Balneavis and his team, who conducted the logistics preparation and organisational tasks, including inspection, marking, alteration and distribution of arms and equipment. The distribution of arms among militia and volunteer units was prioritised based on strategic considerations and the availability of existing inventory. Additionally, financial constraints necessitated raising a War Loan to address expenses associated with the Taranaki conflict and arms procurement.

The lessons from this historical chapter resonate with military logisticians’ enduring challenges, emphasising the significance of strategic foresight, administrative efficiency, and resource management in ensuring operational readiness. As New Zealand navigated the complexities of colonial defence, its military logistics history is a testament to the enduring relevance of effective logistical planning and execution in military operations.

Notes

[1] Parliamentary Counsel Office, “Militia Act 1858,”  http://www.nzlii.org/nz/legis/hist_act/ma185821a22v1858n8223/.

[2] Under-Secretary William Gisborne, Commission for Captain Balneavis as Deputy Adjutant General, Archives New Zealand Item Id  r24487365 (Wellington: New Zealand Archives, 1859).

[3] It remains unclear whether the 500 Flint muskets mentioned were intended for all the militias (Auckland, Wellington, Nelson, and Taranaki) or solely for the Auckland Militia.

[4] Major of Brigade, Arms and Ammunition Issued for New Plymouth Militia Are to Be Paid For, Archives New Zealand Item Id R24118692 (New Zealand Archives, 1858).

[5] Notice to Foreign Stations from War Department, 19 April 1856 ibid.

[6] It is probable that these prize pistols were for awarded for service associated with the Battle of Waireka on 28 March 1860. Hayden Hughes, “The Adams Percussion Revolver in New Zealand Wars.”

[7] Captain Balneavis, Requesting to Be Allowed Another Assistant to Keep Arms in Order, Archives New Zealand Item Id R24099683 (Wellington: New Zealand Archives, 1858).

[8] “Report of the Audit Committee of 1861,” Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives 1861 Session I, B-01a  (1861).

[9] “Nominal Return of All Officers in the Employ of the Governmant: Their Duties, Salaries, Location and Dates of Appointment,” Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1866 Session I, D-03  (1866): 12.

[10] “Reductions in Civil Service,” Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1888 Session I, H-30, 11 May 1888.

[11] Deputy Adjutant General to Colonial Secretary, Authority to employ Arms Cleaners 5 December 1861.  F.D Fell, “To Forward Return of Arms Issued and in Store,” Archives New Zealand Item No R24075932  (1861).

[12] Deputy Adjutant-General, “Authority to Mark Arms Received from England,” ibid.

[13] Hebbert and Co Invoice Tawera 25 August 1860. Acknowledging Instructions to Pay Hebbert and Company, Archives New Zealand Item Id R24133820 (Wellington: New Zealand Archives, 1862).

[14] Probable recipients were Beaumont Adams Patent: No 36204R “Presented by the N.Z. Government to John Phillips for gallantry at Taranaki AD 1860”  – (Puke Ariki Collection)

Beaumont Adams Patent: No 26174 “Presented by the N.Z. Government to James Ball for gallant conduct in the field at Taranaki, AD 1860” – (Puke Ariki Collection)

Beaumont Adams Patent: No 34367R “Presented by the N.Z. Government to member Frank Mace of the Taranaki Rifle Volunteers for gallantry in the field on 28 March 1860 at Waireka, New Plymouth, Taranaki.” – (Puke Ariki Collection)

Beaumont Adams Patent: No 33550R “Presented by the N.Z. Government to member Charles Messenger of the Taranaki Rifle Volunteers for gallantry in the field on 28 March 1860 at Waireka, New Plymouth, and Taranaki.” – (Puke Ariki Collection)

Beaumont Adams Patent: No 36203R “Presented by the N.Z. Government to Robert Old for gallant conduct in the field at Taranaki, AD 1860” (Auckland War Museum)

Beaumont Adams Patent: No ?????: “Presented by the N.Z. Government to member Edward Messenger of the Taranaki Rifle Volunteers for gallantry in the field on 28 March 1860 at Waireka, New Plymouth, Taranaki.” (Location unknown) Terry Shattock, 26 February 2024.   “Taranaki,” Wellington Independent, Volume XVII, Issue 1740, 15 July 1862.

[15] Hebbert and Co Invoice Sevilla 20 September 1860, Acknowledging Instructions to Pay Hebbert and Company.

[16] Gilfillan and Co, Have Ordered Carbines Etc from Sydney, Archives New Zealand Item Id R24487421 (New Zealand Archives, 1860).

[17] Deputy Adjutant General, Proceedings of a Board ‘Sevilla’, 310 Rifles, 180 Frogs, 340 Sets Accoutrements, Archives New Zealand Item Id R24488115 (Wellington: New Zealand Archives, 1861).

[18] Proceedings of a Board ‘Sevilla’, 5 Condemmed, Archives New Zealand Item Id R24488054 (Wellington: New Zealand Archives, 1861).

[19] Proceedings of a Board ‘Sevilla’, 45 Breech-Loading Carbines, Archives New Zealand Item Id R24488117 (Wellington: New Zealand Archives, 1861).

[20] Hebbert and Co Invoice Bosworth 10 October 1860. Acknowledging Instructions to Pay Hebbert and Company.

[21] Letter Gilfillan to Colonial Secretary 4 March 1861. John Alexander Gilfillan, Received Arms for the Govt by the “Bosworth”, Archives New Zealand Item Id R24131367 (New Zealand Archives, 1861).

[22] Deputy Adjutant General, Proceedings of a Board ‘Bosworth’, 300 Rifles,, Archives New Zealand Item Id R24488116 (Wellington: New Zealand Archives, 1861).

[23] Proceedings of a Board “Bosworth’, 35 Breech Loading Carbines, Ammunition, Accoutrements, Archives New Zealand Item Id R24488114 (Wellington: New Zealand Archives, 1861).

[24] Hebbert and Co Invoice African 31 December 1860. Acknowledging Instructions to Pay Hebbert and Company.

[25] Hebbert and Co Invoice Waterlily 13 January 1861. Ibid.

[26] Hebbert and Co Invoice Broadwater 19 March 1861. Ibid.

[27] Hebbert and Co Invoice Northumberland 22 April 1861. Ibid.

[28] Proceedings of a Board ‘Northumberland’ 710 Rifles, 300 Carbines  ibid.

[29] “Return of the Amount Expended out of the War Loan of 150000 from 1 October 1860 to 12 June 1861,” Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1861 Session I, B-05  (1861).

[30] “Return of the Amount Expended out of the War Loan of 150000 from 13th June 1861 to 31st March 1862,” Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1862 Session I, B-04  (1862).

[31] Schedule of Accounts and Papers Laid Upon the Table – Arms and Ammunition, a Return Showing the Distribution of Arms Belonging to the Government of New Zealand, Archives New Zealand Item Id  r17684521 (Wellington: New Zealand Archives, 1860).

[32] Deputy Adjutant General, Distribution of Rifles and Carbines, Archives New Zealand Item Id R24488026 (New Zealand Archives, 1861).

Captain Sam Cosgrave Anderson, Defence Storekeeper 1879-1899: A Life of Service and Dedication

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Captain Sam Cosgrave Anderson, a figure often overshadowed but undeniably significant in New Zealand’s military logistics history, came into this world in 1841, born to Frank Anderson and Margaret Cosgrove in Belfast, Ireland. Although details of Anderson’s formative years and education remain elusive, a pivotal juncture emerged in 1863 when he embarked on a journey that led him to the Colony of New Zealand. This marked the genesis of a path that would shape an illustrious career, leaving an indelible mark on New Zealand’s military logistics landscape.

Upon his arrival in New Zealand, Captain Anderson’s commitment to service saw him mustered into the ranks of No 7 Company, Waikato Militia, where he served for nineteen months across the Waikato and Thames districts. Following his stint in the militia, Anderson transitioned to the Commissariat Department in Auckland as a clerk. This seemingly modest role laid the bedrock for his subsequent contributions to New Zealand’s military logistical operations.[1]

Unfazed by the challenges of his era, Captain Anderson ventured to the West Coast Goldfields on an unsuccessful quest to find his fortune. By 1868, his journey led him to Wanganui, and on 25 October that year, he assumed the role of Clerk to the Militia Quartermaster at Patea. The journey of Captain Anderson continued to unfold as he accepted the position of Clerk in Wellington under the Defence Inspector of Stores, Lieutenant Colonel. Edward Gorton, on 27 April 1869.[2]

Captain Anderson’s ambition and dedication propelled him to seek a transfer from the Inspector of Stores office to become the Defence Storekeeper in July 1869. His subsequent elevation to the role of Armed Constabulary Storekeeper on 1 December 1869 marked a pivotal point in his career trajectory. This position, equivalent in grade and compensation to the Defence Storekeepers in Auckland, Whanganui, and Wellington, was stationed at the Mount Cook Barracks on Buckle Street, serving as the epicentre of New Zealand’s Armed Constabulary and Defence Forces.

A prominent figure under the jurisdiction of the Under Secretary of Defence, Captain Anderson assumed command of the Defence Stores on 18 May 1878 to 9 January 1877. [3] This phase of Anderson’s career was one of transition for the military as it evolved from a force focused on domestic defence to one oriented towards external security, which brought new challenges and responsibilities to Anderson’s purview.[4] Notably, over the next thirty years, he spearheaded the systematic reception and distribution of weaponry, overseeing the progression from Snider rifles and carbines to the introduction of the Martini-Henry Rifle in the 1890s.[5]

Captain Anderson’s indomitable spirit and commitment were exemplified in his involvement in the closing chapters of the New Zealand Wars. The Parihaka campaign of 1881 saw him participate in a government-led expedition to restore order and conclude a period of civil disobedience. While morally dubious, this campaign ended the dispute but left enduring emotional and social scars. Captain Anderson’s logistical prowess earned acclaim, particularly in providing provisions, transportation and accommodation for the Volunteers and  Constabulary.[6]

Officers of the NZ Armed Constabulary at Parihaka. Back, left to right: Captains W E Gudgeon, H Morrison, Gordon, Taylor, Powell, Fortescue, S Newall and Major A Tuke. Front, left to right: Captains Baker and Anderson, Lieutenant-Colonel John Mackintosh Roberts, Captains Gilbert Mair, Henry William Northcroft, W B Messenger and Major F Y Goring. Cowan, James, 1870-1943 :Collection of photographs. Ref: 1/1-017952-G. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand. /records/23057608

Officers of the NZ Armed Constabulary at Parihaka. Back, left to right: Captains W E Gudgeon, H Morrison, Gordon, Taylor, Powell, Fortescue, S Newall and Major A Tuke. Front, left to right: Captains Baker and Anderson, Lieutenant-Colonel John Mackintosh Roberts, Captains Gilbert Mair, Henry William Northcroft, W B Messenger and Major F Y Goring. 

Captain Anderson was recommended for a commission for his exemplary efforts during the Parihaka campaign, culminating in his gazetting as a New Zealand Constabulary Quartermaster with the Rank of Captain in the New Zealand Militia in January 1882.[7] Simultaneously, he undertook the mantle of Quartermaster for the Permanent Militia, cementing his multifaceted contributions to the nation’s defence.[8]

Captain Anderson’s narrative transcends his military endeavours alone. A significant chapter unfolded with the birth of his son, Frank Lionel, on 9 February 1871 in Wellington. Frank Lionel’s arrival preceded his parents’ official marriage. It was the product of a relationship with Sarah Ann Fryson/Tyson née Gyde, which adds depth to Captain Anderson’s life story.

1872 Captain Anderson married Mary Ann White, a union that brought companionship and shared aspirations. However, life’s challenges were not far behind, and the passing of his wife on 12 September 1889 in Wellington marked a poignant moment of loss and reflection.

The evolution of the military demanded adaptive measures in logistics and management. In conjunction with Sergeant Majors Robert George Vinning Parker and Frederick Silver of the Permanent Artillery, Captain Anderson contributed to establishing a system of Artillery Stores Accounting that endured into the early 20th century, showcasing his willingness to embrace innovation and optimise resource utilisation.[9]

Despite the evolving landscape of military organisation, Captain Anderson’s role as Defence Storekeeper retained its essential structure. Delegating responsibilities to his chief Clerk, Thomas Henry Sewell, Anderson ensured the smooth operation of the Wellington Defence Stores while he focused on supporting the force on a national level.[10] Amidst economic downturns, changing armament, and a shifting military landscape, his steadfast leadership navigated challenges, fostering stability and readiness.

In 1893 the Commandant of the New Zealand Forces, Colonel Francis John Fox, commended Anderson stating that,

Captain Anderson is Storekeeper. This officer has a great deal of responsibility, keeps his stores in good order, and is thoroughly competent and to be relied on.[11]

Fox’s commendation in 1893 underscored Captain Anderson’s pivotal role as Storekeeper, a position demanding both reliability and competence. This acknowledgement resonated throughout his years of dedicated service, only interrupted by a three-month leave of absence prompted by medical advice in April 1899.

The eve of the 20th century heralded a significant test of Captain Anderson’s capabilities. With the outbreak of the South Africa war, the New Zealand Government committed a contingent to the Imperial forces. Urgent mobilisation necessitated rapid procurement and distribution of equipment and uniforms. Captain Anderson and his team worked tirelessly to meet the needs of the assembling contingent, showcasing their commitment to the nation’s defence.

Tragically, Captain Anderson’s life was cut short on 7 December 1899, succumbing to a brief illness believed to be attributed to the stress and extended work hours that characterised his dedication.[12] Captain Anderson found his final resting place alongside his wife at St. John’s Anglican Churchyard Cemetery in Johnsonville, Wellington.

His legacy is a testament to his service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the nation’s defence, which until now has gone unrecognised. However, from now on, his story should influence and inspire future generations of New Zealand military logisticians, reflecting the epitome of selfless dedication to duty and the betterment of his country.

Notes

[1] Cyclopedia Company Limited, The Cyclopedia of New Zealand. [Wellington Provincial District] (Cyclopedia Company, 1897), 330. https://nzetc.victoria.ac.nz/tm/scholarly/tei-Cyc01Cycl-t1-body-d4-d17-d1.html#name-413980-mention.

[2] “Death of Captain Anderson,” Evening Post, Volume LVIII, Issue 138 (Wellington), 8 December 1899, https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/EP18991208.2.55.

[3] “Appointment of Defence Storekeepers,” New Zealand Gazette, Issue 47, 23 May 1878.

[4] “Appointment of Defence Storekeepers.”

[5] “Report on the New Zealand Permanent and Volunteer Forces “, Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1893 Session I, H-09  (1893), https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/parliamentary/AJHR1893-I.2.3.2.10.

[6] “Native affairs,” Globe, Volume XXIII, Issue 2386, 25 November 1881, https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/GLOBE18811125.2.13.

[7] “Parihaka News,” Auckland Star, Volume XII, Issue 3527, 25 November 1881, https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS18811125.2.14.

[8] Cyclopedia Company Limited, The Cyclopedia of New Zealand. [Wellington Provincial District].

[9] Archives New Zealand, “Frederick Silver,” Personal File, Record no R23513983 (Wellington) 1976-1900, https://ndhadeliver.natlib.govt.nz/delivery/DeliveryManagerServlet?dps_pid=IE19149654.

[10] J Balance, “Thomas Henry Sewell appointed as Assistant Storekeeper,” Archives New Zealand Item No R24280543  (24 March 1886).

[11] “Report on the New Zealand Permanent and Volunteer Forces “.

[12] “Death of Captain Anderson.”

NZ Defence Stores July 1870 – June 1871

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Consolidation after Imperial Withdrawal

The year from June 1870 to June 1871 was a formative period in the development of New Zealand’s Defence Stores system. By mid-1870, the withdrawal of Imperial forces from New Zealand was effectively complete, and with it ended the practical dominance of the British military storekeeping system that had supported Imperial operations in the colony. The responsibility for military stores, arms, ammunition, magazines, repairs, inspection, and accounting now rested with New Zealand’s own colonial defence administration.

This transition did not produce a large or elaborate organisation. The Defence Stores establishment remained small, dispersed, and heavily dependent on a limited number of experienced individuals. Yet it was now indispensable. The Armed Constabulary, Militia, and Volunteers all depended on arms, accoutrements, ammunition, magazines, repairs, and accountable issue systems. In this context, the Defence Stores were not merely warehouses. They were the technical and administrative mechanism that allowed New Zealand’s colonial forces to function.

Legislative and Financial Setting

The Militia Act 1870, passed on 12 September 1870, consolidated and amended the law relating to the Militia in New Zealand. It confirmed the Governor as Commander-in-Chief, provided for militia districts, battalions, and company divisions, and included provisions requiring arms and equipment to be returned when required. It also created penalties for losing, spoiling, selling, or pawning arms. These provisions are important because they show that the control of public arms was recognised as a matter of law, not simply routine administration.[1]

The financial setting was shaped by the Defence and other Purposes Loan Act 1870, which authorised the raising of £1,000,000, approximately NZ$180 million in 2026 values, for defence and other purposes. The Act allowed money to be borrowed in Great Britain or elsewhere and provided that the annual charge for interest and sinking fund was not to exceed six per cent.[2] A further Temporary Loan Act 1870 authorised the raising of up to £500,000, approximately NZ$90 million in 2026 values, in anticipation of monies to be raised under the larger loan legislation.[3]

Within this wider financial framework, the Store Department was provided for as a distinct defence function. The Appropriation Act 1870 funded an establishment that included an Inspector of Stores, clerks, storekeepers, sub-storekeepers, armourers, arms cleaners, magazine keepers, and operating expenses.[4]

For the modern equivalents used in this article, a working conversion of £1 in 1870 ≈ NZ$180 in 2026 values has been applied. The resulting figures are rounded and should be treated as indicative rather than exact.

Store Department Establishment, 1870–71

The following table places names against appointments where possible. Some identifications remain provisional, as the Appropriation Act lists positions and salaries rather than names. The named appointments have been drawn from the 1871 Civil Establishment nominal roll, the existing Defence Stores July 1870 to June 1871 article, the Auckland Defence Store article, and the compiled Defence Stores nominal roll.

Personnel Establishment

AppointmentProbable or confirmed incumbent, 1870–711870–71 amountApprox. 2026 NZD
Inspector of StoresLieutenant-Colonel Edward Gorton£500 0s. 0d.$90,000
Clerk, Head OfficeGeorge Simpson Lockie£150 0s. 0d.$27,000
Storekeeper, AucklandMajor William St Clair Tisdall£250 0s. 0d.$45,000
Storekeeper, WellingtonLieutenant-Colonel Henry Elmhirst Reader£100 0s. 0d.$18,000
Sub-storekeeper, WanganuiCharles Chalklin£150 0s. 0d.$27,000
Two clerks, AucklandJohn Blomfield and John Price£320 0s. 0d.$57,600
One clerk, WellingtonAlexander Crowe£150 0s. 0d.$27,000
Store Department clerk, WellingtonSam Cosgrave AndersonNot separately listed in this voteNot separately calculated
Sub-storekeeper, PateaC. A. Wray£150 0s. 0d.$27,000
Armourer, AucklandDavid Evitt£182 0s. 0d.$32,760
Armourer, WellingtonEdward Metcalf Smith and Edwin Henry Bradford£182 0s. 0d.$32,760
Arms cleaners, AucklandThomas Gibbons, John Penligen, Charles Phillips, William Cook Rockley£438 0s. 0d.$78,840
Arms cleaners, WellingtonWilliam Warren, John Shaw, James Smith, Walter Christie£438 0s. 0d.$78,840
Magazine keeper, AucklandJohn Broughton£83 10s. 0d.$15,030
Magazine keeper, WellingtonWilliam Corliss£63 17s. 6d.$11,498
Personnel establishment total £3,317 7s. 6d.$597,128

The appropriation and Public Accounts identify appointments and expenditure categories, but not always the individual recipients. Names have therefore been matched to appointments from nominal rolls, Gazette notices and related departmental research. Unless directly confirmed, the association should not be treated as proof that the individual drew the full annual amount from that vote.

Departmental Expenses

Expense1870–71 amountApprox. 2026 NZDNotes
Rent, advertising, and contingencies£150 0s. 0d.$27,000General operating costs of the Store Department.
Travelling expenses of inspecting officers£90 0s. 0d.$16,200Supported inspection of stores, arms, and local establishments.
Departmental expenses total£240 0s. 0d.$43,200 

Total Store Department Vote

Category1870–71 amountApprox. 2026 NZD
Personnel establishment£3,317 7s. 6d.$597,128
Departmental expenses£240 0s. 0d.$43,200
Total Store Department vote£3,557 7s. 6d.$640,328

This named establishment shows that the Store Department was more than a paper vote. By 1870–71, it included a recognisable network of storekeepers, clerks, armourers, arms cleaners, sub-storekeepers, and magazine keepers spread across Auckland, Wellington, Wanganui, and Patea. Separate from this personnel establishment were the department’s operating expenses, including rent, advertising, contingencies, and the travelling expenses of inspecting officers. Although modest, these expenses supported the inspection and accountability system that allowed the Defence Stores to supervise arms, ammunition, magazines, and equipment across several dispersed locations.

District Sub-storekeepers and the Dispersed Store System

In addition to the main stores at Wellington and Auckland, the Defence Stores system relied on a dispersed network of district sub-storekeepers. The existing return records district sub-storekeepers at Hamilton, Tauranga, Opotiki, Te Wairoa, Napier, Marton, Wanganui, Patea, New Plymouth, Blenheim, Nelson, Christchurch, Hokitika, Dunedin, and Invercargill. This demonstrates that the Store Department’s responsibilities extended well beyond the two principal depots. Arms, ammunition, camp equipment, tools, and accoutrements had to be held, issued, recovered, and accounted for across the colony.

The district sub-storekeeper role was often held alongside other duties. Often these appointments were combined with Militia Drill Instructor duties, Public Works sub-storekeeper duties, or Armed Constabulary sub-storekeeper responsibilities. This reflected both the small scale of the establishment and the practical need for local officials to serve multiple functions.

Public Accounts and Actual Store Department Expenditure

The Public Accounts for 1870–71 record actual Store Department expenditure of £3,458 17s. 3d., approximately NZ$622,598 in 2026 values. This was slightly below the authorised vote of £3,557 7s. 6d. The expenditure included salaries for the Inspector, storekeepers, and clerks, payments for armourers and arms cleaners, rent, advertising, contingencies, travelling expenses for inspecting officers, and the salaries of the Auckland and Wellington magazine keepers.[5]

This expenditure was modest when measured against the broader defence loans of the period, but it sustained the core mechanism of colonial military materiel management. The Store Department was responsible for ensuring that arms were maintained, ammunition was secured, stores were accounted for, and technical defects were identified and corrected.

Arms, Ammunition, Repairs, and Related Defence Expenditure

In addition to the Store Department establishment and operating expenses, the 1870–71 accounts record separate expenditure on arms, ammunition, repairs, targets, freight, insurance, and other defence-related costs. These were not listed as part of the Store Department personnel vote, but they directly affected the work of the Defence Stores, armourers, arms cleaners, and magazine keepers.

Under the Defence and other Purposes Loan Act 1870, the Government was authorised to apply loan funds to colonial defence expenditure. The First Schedule allowed up to £180,000 for colonial defence costs, charges, expenses, and liabilities for the year ending 30 June 1871, approximately NZ$32.4 million in 2026 values. A further £160,000, approximately NZ$28.8 million, was authorised for the year ending 30 June 1872.[6]

The Public Accounts for 1870–71 show that defence expenditure under Schedule I of the loan included the Armed Constabulary, miscellaneous defence expenditure, the steamer Luna, and Contingent Defence. Within those categories, several items related directly to the purchase, maintenance, carriage, and use of arms and ammunition.[7]

Arms, Ammunition, and Related Defence Costs, 1870–71

Item1870–71 amountApprox. 2026 NZDNotes
Armed Constabulary, arms, ammunition, etc.£563 15s. 3d.$101,477Arms and ammunition expenditure within Armed Constabulary contingent expenditure.
Purchase of arms£948 19s. 6d.$170,816Listed under miscellaneous defence expenditure.
Purchase of ammunition£593 6s. 6d.$106,799Listed separately from purchase of arms.
Repair of arms£21 13s. 6d.$3,902Small but significant evidence of ongoing armourer work.
Targets£61 1s. 6d.$10,994Supports rifle practice and prize firing.
Carriage and freight£227 15s. 7d.$41,000Movement of arms, ammunition, targets, or associated stores.
Insurance£150 0s. 0d.$27,000Likely associated with transport or storage risk.
Contingent Defence, ammunition and accoutrements£4,697 19s. 0d.$845,631The largest directly identifiable arms, ammunition, and equipment-related item.
Total directly related to arms, ammunition, repairs, targets, freight, insurance, and accoutrements£7,264 10s. 10d.$1,307,618 

The largest single item was £4,697 19s. for ammunition and accoutrements under Contingent Defence, approximately NZ$845,631 in 2026 values. This was significantly larger than the ordinary purchase of arms and ammunition listed under miscellaneous defence expenditure, suggesting that the most substantial equipment-related costs were associated with contingent or operational defence needs rather than routine store replacement.[8]

The accounts also recorded recoveries credited against colonial defence expenditure, including £98 10s. 5d. for arms and accoutrements and £344 1s. 11d. for ammunition. This was a combined recovery of £442 12s. 4d., approximately NZ$79,666 in 2026 values. These recoveries show that some costs were offset by repayments, returns, or credits, although the accounts do not provide enough detail to identify each transaction.[9]

This detailed expenditure adds an important dimension to the Defence Stores story. The Store Department’s own vote funded the people and machinery of storekeeping, but the broader defence accounts show the flow of materiel that those people had to receive, inspect, store, issue, repair, transport, and account for. Purchases of arms and ammunition, repairs of arms, provision of targets, carriage and freight, and the large contingent defence expenditure on ammunition and accoutrements all point to an active system of military supply rather than a dormant post-war storehouse.

Defence Stores Stock Holdings, August 1870

One of the most useful surviving snapshots of the Defence Stores system is the return of small arms, ordnance, ammunition, camp equipment, implements, and saddlery in military use as at 17 August 1870. This return gives scale to the Store Department’s task. It was not simply paying clerks and storekeepers. It was managing a large and mixed inventory of modern, obsolescent, and legacy weapons. The existing post cites this return as Edward Gorton’s report on the system of store accounts and returns of arms, ordnance, ammunition, and various stores.

Arms, Ordnance, and Ammunition in Store

CategoryItemQuantity
Small armsSnider, all patterns2,293
Small armsMedium Hay Pattern rifles7,726
Small armsEnfield Pattern 1853 rifles1,460
Small armsRifle, breech, Calisher & Terry26
Small armsShort Enfield sword rifles, Pattern 185333
Small armsSpencer rifles4
Small armsMont Storm rifles5
Small armsPercussion muskets, Pattern 1839222
Small armsCarbine, breech, Calisher & Terry284
Small armsMuzzle-loading Enfield artillery carbines67
Small armsColt revolving carbines4
Small armsPercussion carbines, various types12
Small armsRevolvers, various types215
Edged weaponsCavalry swords153
OrdnanceRBL 40-pounders2
OrdnanceRBL 6-pounders2
Ordnance24-pounder howitzers3
Ordnance4.2/5-inch mortars11
Ordnance6-pounder carronade1
Ordnance3-pounder smooth bore gun1
Small-arms ammunitionSnider rounds470,228
Small-arms ammunitionEnfield rounds1,804,983
Small-arms ammunitionBreech-loading carbine rounds251,324
Small-arms ammunitionRevolver rounds287,148
Small-arms ammunitionPercussion musket rounds160,152
Ordnance ammunitionCartridges14,145
Ordnance ammunitionShot and shell22,806

The in-store holdings alone show the complexity of the Defence Stores task. The department held modern Snider rifles alongside large numbers of older Enfield and Medium Hay Pattern rifles, specialist carbines, revolvers, swords, artillery pieces, mortars, and large quantities of ammunition. This mixture of current, ageing, and specialist equipment required careful accounting and technical oversight.

Arms and Ordnance on Issue

CategoryItemQuantity
Small armsSnider, all patterns208
Small armsMedium Hay Pattern rifles9,263
Small armsEnfield Pattern 1853 rifles6,473
Small armsRifle, breech, Calisher & Terry7
Small armsShort Enfield sword rifles, Pattern 1853224
Small armsSpencer rifles4
Small armsPercussion muskets, Pattern 18391,007
Small armsBreech-loading carbines1,271
Small armsMuzzle-loading Enfield artillery carbines218
Small armsColt revolving carbines2
Small armsPercussion carbines, various types267
Small armsRevolvers, various types934
Edged weaponsCavalry swords903
OrdnanceRBL 12-pounders6
OrdnanceRBL 6-pounders4
Ordnance6-pounder brass gun1
Ordnance24-pounder howitzers7
Ordnance32-pounder iron guns3
Ordnance24-pounder iron guns8
Ordnance12-pounder iron guns5

The quantities on issue are particularly important. They show that the principal challenge was not simply holding stores in depots, but accounting for thousands of weapons already dispersed to colonial forces. More than 9,000 Medium Hay Pattern rifles, 6,400 Enfields, 1,200 breech-loading carbines, 900 revolvers, and 900 cavalry swords were already away from the main stores and in the hands of units, posts, or local authorities.

Camp Equipment, Implements, and Saddlery

The August 1870 return also recorded camp equipment, implements, and saddlery. This broadens the understanding of the Defence Stores beyond arms and ammunition. The department also held the equipment needed for colonial forces to camp, dig, build, move, and sustain themselves in the field.

Camp Equipment, Implements, and Saddlery in Store

ItemQuantity
Circular tents326
Indian tents30
Field officer marquees13
Waterproof sheets523
Blankets647
Felling axes166
Pick axes1,036
Fern hooks115
Bill hooks91
Spades1,298
Shovels1,214
Wheelbarrows413
Mattocks111
Cross-cut saws41
Riding saddles285
Bridles262
Pack saddles101

Camp Equipment, Implements, and Saddlery on Issue

ItemQuantity
Circular tents130
Indian tents14
Waterproof sheets58
Blankets275
Felling axes235
Pick axes239
Fern hooks90
Bill hooks35
Spades400
Shovels291
Wheelbarrows85
Mattocks18
Cross-cut saws14
Riding saddles48
Bridles48
Pack saddles47

This material shows that the Defence Stores had a broader field support role. It managed not only weapons and ammunition but also tents, blankets, tools, saddlery, and pack equipment. These were the practical stores required to support movement, field works, camps, mounted activity, and local defence operations.

Gorton’s Inspection Circuit

The travelling expenses provided in the Store Department vote were not theoretical. During the year, Inspector of Stores Edward Gorton inspected Auckland in July 1870, Wanganui and Napier in August, Wanganui and Auckland in December, Christchurch in April 1871, Dunedin in May, and Auckland, Tauranga, and Thames in June. This inspection circuit demonstrates how the Store Department attempted to impose accountability across a dispersed system of depots, district stores, magazines, and issued arms.

These inspections are significant because they connect the financial vote to actual departmental activity. The Store Department was not sitting passively in Wellington and Auckland. It was inspecting, checking, and attempting to control stores across the colony.

The Albert Barracks Powder Magazine and the Move to Mount Eden

The management of powder was one of the most sensitive Defence Stores responsibilities. In February 1871, Auckland newspapers reported public concern about the powder magazine at Albert Barracks, including rumours of an attempt to ignite it and criticism that entry controls had relaxed since the departure of the British garrison. There was also concern that the quantity of powder held in the magazine exceeded what was recorded in official documents. Given the magazine’s position in a densely populated part of Auckland, this raised fears of a catastrophic explosion.

By March 1871, it was announced that the powder magazine would be transferred from Albert Barracks to Mount Eden, and by May tenders were being sought for construction of the new magazine. This episode is important because it shows that the Defence Stores’ responsibilities were not confined to accounting and issue. They included the safe custody of explosive stores, the accuracy of ammunition records, and the siting of magazines in relation to public safety.

Armourers, Arms Cleaners, and the Control of Rifles

During inspections conducted by armourers, unauthorised alterations to rifle backsights were identified, leading Lieutenant-Colonel Gorton in November 1870 to direct that altered rifles be returned to store. This incident is worth retaining and expanding, because it shows the Defence Stores acting as a technical authority, not simply as a storage office.

The issue was significant. In a militia and volunteer system, arms were widely distributed across local corps and districts. Without regular inspection, rifles could be modified, neglected, damaged, or retained without proper accountability. The presence of armourers at Auckland and Wellington, supported by arms cleaners at both centres, reflects the practical requirement to keep colonial weapons safe, serviceable, and standardised.

The wider history of New Zealand military armourers reinforces this point. Between the 1860s and 1900, New Zealand’s military armourers evolved from civilian gunsmiths and part-time artificers into a more professional group whose technical skills underpinned the readiness of the colony’s forces. The 1870–71 rifle-sight incident therefore illustrates a broader pattern: technical control of arms was becoming an essential part of colonial defence administration.

Edward Metcalf Smith and Iron-sand Experiments

Edward Metcalf Smith adds a useful technical dimension to the Defence Stores story. Smith had accumulated experience in the iron industry before undertaking a gunsmith apprenticeship at the Royal Small Arms factories in London and Enfield, followed by service at the Royal Arsenal, Woolwich. Arriving in New Zealand in 1861 as Garrison Armourer, he later served as armourer for the Taranaki Militia and Taranaki Rifle Volunteers.

By 1871, Smith had relocated to Wellington as Defence Armourer. Drawing on the resources of the armourers’ shop, he continued experimenting with Taranaki iron sand and refining his smelting process. His presence shows that the Defence Stores workshops were not merely places for routine cleaning and repair. They were also centres of practical technical knowledge, where experienced tradesmen applied workshop skills to broader colonial industrial problems.

Auckland Defence Store

The Auckland Defence Store remained one of the most important sites in the colonial storekeeping network. Auckland had been the main centre of Imperial and colonial military activity during much of the New Zealand Wars, and its storekeeping arrangements evolved from earlier Colonial Store and Militia Store systems. By 1870–71, the Auckland establishment included Major William St Clair Tisdall as Storekeeper, John Blomfield and John Price as clerks, George Evitt as armourer, Thomas Gibbins, John Penligen, Charles Philips, and William Cook Rockley as arms cleaners, and John Broughton as magazine keeper.

The later development of Auckland’s ordnance estate, including the movement of magazines to Mount Eden and the creation of more purpose-built facilities, shows that the improvised arrangements of the early 1870s were only the beginning of a longer process. New Zealand inherited a patchwork of armouries, magazines, depots, and barracks after Imperial withdrawal, and the gradual shift toward purpose-built logistics infrastructure began from this point.

Wellington Defence Stores, Mount Cook

At Wellington, the Defence Stores were centred on the Mount Cook Depot at Buckle Street. The named personnel for 1870–71 included Henry Elmhirst Reader as Storekeeper, Alexander Crowe as clerk, Edward Metcalf Smith and Edwin Henry Bradford as armourers, William Warren, John Shaw, James Smith, and Walter Christie as arms cleaners, and William Corliss as magazine keeper.

Mount Cook had previously been associated with Imperial military use, but by 1870–71 it was firmly part of the colonial defence system. Its use as a store, magazine, workshop, and later ordnance site connects the immediate post-Imperial Defence Stores establishment with the much longer history of Buckle Street as a centre of New Zealand military logistics.

The Joint Committee on Colonial Defence

In 1871, the Joint Committee on Colonial Defence examined both external and internal defence. For external defence, the committee considered the risk of sudden attack by a small cruiser or privateer against New Zealand’s harbours, but judged that the cost of large harbour defence works was too great for the time being. For internal defence, it identified the Armed Constabulary, Militia, and Volunteers as the available means of defence.[10]

Most importantly for this article, the committee recommended a reorganisation of the General Staff that included a Lieutenant-Colonel, Quartermaster-General and Colonial Storekeeper. This recommendation placed storekeeping and supply functions at the level of senior defence administration, alongside the Adjutant-General, Paymaster-General, and Inspecting Field Officer.

Although these were only recommendations, it shows that contemporaries understood the importance of stores, equipment, accounting, and supply to the effective management of colonial defence.

Armed Constabulary Readiness and Local Resources

The Armed Constabulary remained one of the main users of Defence Stores. In March 1871, the Defence Minister issued a circular to officers commanding Armed Constabulary posts, stressing that the efficiency of the standing force had to compensate for its numerical inferiority. Officers were instructed to know the country around their posts, including roads, tracks, streams, settlers, food, horses, and stores available in an emergency.[11]

This circular adds useful context to the Defence Stores story. Defence readiness was not simply a matter of men under arms. It required local knowledge, mobility, stores, transport, food, horses, ammunition, and serviceable weapons. The Defence Stores provided the materiel foundation for that system, while local officers were expected to understand how to use available resources in an emergency.

Volunteers and the Demand for Arms

The Inspector of Militia and Volunteers reported that Volunteer strength increased from 5,407 in June 1870 to 6,568 by 31 March 1871, with the number qualifying for capitation also increasing. He attributed this growth partly to increased capitation allowances and legislative encouragement.[12]

This increase placed additional pressure on the Defence Stores. More Volunteers meant more rifles, accoutrements, ammunition, inspections, repairs, accounting, and recoveries. The Store Department’s small establishment therefore supported a growing citizen-force system at the same time as New Zealand was reducing its reliance on Imperial troops.

Harbour Defence and the Limits of Resources

Papers relating to the defence of New Zealand harbours show that the Government was concerned about the risk of attack by small but heavily armed cruisers. In March 1871, Captain Hutton was asked to report on Auckland harbour defence, taking into account economy, efficiency, batteries, ordnance, and even torpedoes.[13]

This issue connects directly to the Defence Stores. Harbour defence, whether implemented immediately or deferred, required guns, carriages, ammunition, tools, storage, trained detachments, magazines, and repair capacity. Even where major expenditure was postponed, the debate reinforced the need for a reliable colonial store system capable of supporting whatever defence policy was adopted.

Conclusion

The period from June 1870 to June 1871 was a year of consolidation for New Zealand’s Defence Stores. With Imperial forces gone, New Zealand had to maintain its own arms, ammunition, stores, magazines, workshops, buildings, and accounting systems. The Store Department’s authorised vote of £3,557 7s. 6d., approximately NZ$640,328 in 2026 values, was modest, but it supported a small network of personnel whose work underpinned the readiness of the Armed Constabulary, Militia, and Volunteers.

When the wider defence accounts are included, the importance of the Defence Stores becomes even clearer. Its personnel establishment of just over £3,300 supported the management of arms, ammunition, repairs, freight, targets, magazines, and accoutrements valued at many thousands of pounds more, including over £7,200, approximately NZ$1.3 million in 2026 values, in directly identifiable arms, ammunition, repair, target, freight, insurance, and accoutrement-related expenditure during 1870–71.

The year also reveals the human foundations of the Defence Stores system. Edward Gorton provided inspection and oversight. Henry Elmhirst Reader and William St Clair Tisdall managed key store locations. Sam Cosgrave Anderson gained the experience that would later make him Defence Storekeeper. Edwin Henry Bradford, Edward Metcalf Smith, George Evitt, and Walter Christie represented the technical trades that kept weapons serviceable, while magazine keepers such as William Corliss and John Broughton provided custody of ammunition and powder.

This was not yet the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps, but it was one of its direct administrative and technical ancestors. The Store Department inherited much from the Imperial system, including its stores, practices, responsibilities, and problems, but it also began adapting them to colonial needs. In this sense, 1870–71 was more than a quiet administrative year after the departure of Imperial troops. It marked the point at which New Zealand’s own defence storekeeping system became essential to the colony’s military independence..

Notes

[1] General Assembly of New  Zealand, “The Militia Act 1870,”  (1870), http://www.nzlii.org/nz/legis/hist_act/ma187033a34v1870n87223/.

[2] New Zealand, Defence and other Purposes Loan Act 1870 (33 and 34 Victoriae 1870 No 81) (New Zealand Parliamentary Counsel Office, 1870). https://www.nzlii.org/nz/legis/hist_act/daopla187033a34v1870n81428/.

[3] Zealand, Defence and other Purposes Loan Act 1870 (33 and 34 Victoriae 1870 No 81).

[4] Appropriation Act 1870 (33 and 34 Victoriae 1870 No 97),  (New Zealand Parliamentary Counsel Office, 1870). https://www.nzlii.org/nz/legis/hist_act/aa187033a34v1870n97312/.

[5] “Public Accounts of the General Government of New Zealand, for the Financial Year 1870-71, Commencing 1 July 1870 and ending 30 June 1874,” Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives 1872 Session I, B-01  (9 October 1872), https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/parliamentary/AJHR1872-I.2.1.3.1.

[6] Zealand, Defence and other Purposes Loan Act 1870 (33 and 34 Victoriae 1870 No 81).

[7] “Public Accounts of the General Government of New Zealand, for the Financial Year 1870-71, Commencing 1 July 1870 and ending 30 June 1874.”

[8] “Public Accounts of the General Government of New Zealand, for the Financial Year 1870-71, Commencing 1 July 1870 and ending 30 June 1874.”

[9] “Public Accounts of the General Government of New Zealand, for the Financial Year 1870-71, Commencing 1 July 1870 and ending 30 June 1874.”

[10] “Report by the Committees of the Legislative Council and House of Representatives, sitting in Conference, on the Defence of the Colony,” Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives 1871 Session I, H-09  (9 October 1871), https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/parliamentary/AJHR1871-I.2.2.5.12.

[11] “Annual Report on the State, Efficiency and Distribution of the Armed Constabulary Force,” Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1871 Session I, G-05  (14 June 1871), https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/parliamentary/AJHR1871-I.2.2.4.7.

[12] “Annual Report of the Inspector of Militia and Volunteers,” Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1871 Session I, G-05b  ( 1871), https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/parliamentary/AJHR1871-I.2.2.4.9.

[13] “Papers relative to Defence of the Harbours of New Zealand,,” Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives 1871 Session I, A-04  (9 October 1871), https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/parliamentary/AJHR1871-I.2.1.2.6.

The identity of Ngāti Tumatauenga

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Met by a combination of mutual mistrust on the one hand and a sense of opportunity on the other, the earliest contacts between Māori and Europeans would grow into a mutually beneficial economic relationship by the 1840s and 1850s. The Treaty of Waitangi sealed the relationship, with a vital element becoming amalgamation. Māori were granted the rights and privileges of British subjects under a universal system under the treaty’s terms and early colonial laws. Unfortunately, the relationship was often one-sided, favouring the Crown and settlers who would set the terms of the amalgamation process into one of assimilation, intending to absorb Māori into the white settler world. This path led to conflict, followed by erecting barriers between Māori and Settlers that would endure for generations. One hundred and seventy-nine years after the treaty’s signing, the relationship between Māori and Europeans has matured, with many colonial-era grievances reconciled or on the path of reconciliation. A sign of how far the nation’s relationship between Māori and Europeans has matured is found in one of the institutions of the state, the Army, now recognised as the standalone iwi: Ngāti Tumatauenga – ‘Tribe of the God of War’.

Ngāti Tumatauenga is the youngest iwi of New Zealand, established in 1994 as the result of an initiative by the Chief of General Staff (CGS), Major General Anthony Leonard Birks, CB, OBE. The CGS intended to regenerate the Army’s culture into a “uniquely New Zealand Military culture by combining appropriate aspects of European and Māori heritage to enhance further the cohesion, morale and esprit de corps of the Army”.[1]Established with the blessing of the veterans of the 28th Māori Battalion, the Māori Queen and iwi surrounding Waiouru; Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Maniapoto and Ngāti Tuhoe. [2] Ngāti Tumatauenga blends the customs and warrior traditions of Māori and Europeans into a fusion of both, laying the basis of the New Zealand Army’s ethos and values.[3] Although Ngāti Tumatauenga is a modern conception, it has a strong whakapapa drawn from its Māori and European ancestry, reflecting its position as the guardian of all the peoples of New Zealand regardless of race, religion or creed.[4]

The path towards Ngāti Tumatauenga has been extended, as, for most of its existence, the New Zealand Army, like those of Canada, South Africa and Australia, embraced British military traditions. Regardless of the British Military influence, there has always been a desire to identify New Zealand as a unique military entity. In World Wars, Canada, South Africa, and Australia sent expeditionary forces filled with units bearing English, Scottish and Irish names, motifs and identities to battlefields worldwide; New Zealand would be the exception. Although there were Territorial units in New Zealand with Scottish identities, the New Zealand Military authorities felt that New Zealand was too small to allow these identities to be embodied as separate units within the Expeditionary Forces. New Zealand Forces would march in one khaki uniform and wore distinctive New Zealand badges up to the Second World War, often including Māori phrases and symbology.[5]

Examples of early New Zealand Army Badges that include Māori phrases and symbology

The only logical exception to this was the Māori, who participated as a distinct subunit, representing a subset of New Zealand in a manner that the Scots or Irish did not.[6] In their quest to establish New Zealand Forces as a recognisable national entity, New Zealand Military authorities inadvertently paved the way for the eventual establishment of Ngāti Tumatauenga in later years.

In addition to the British Military traditions, Māori Tikanga (cultural customs and practices) serves as the binding force for Ngāti Tumatauenga. These distinct and unique cultural practices and traditions enhance the loyalty, cohesion, and tribal identity of the Modern New Zealand Warrior. [7] Contrary to popular belief, Māori warfare was not a permanent fixture of Māori culture and life; instead, it was a practice employed depending on circumstances, such as acquiring land, countering threats, or defending Mana (prestige and authority). Māori refined their warfighting traditions as participants on both sides of the conflicts during the nineteenth-century New Zealand land wars.

In the twentieth century, Māori leaders like Sir Apirana Ngata viewed military service for the Crown as an extension of their warrior heritage and a path to equality. In his 1943 pamphlet “Price of Citizenship,” Ngata asserted, “We are of one house, and if our Pākehā (non-Māori) brothers fall, we fall with them. How can we even hold our heads up when the struggle is over if asked, ‘Where were you when New Zealand was at war?'” [8] Māori made significant and honorable contributions during the Second World War, solidifying their place in the post-war Army. A 1977 survey indicated that Māori comprised 34 percent of the Regular Force and 16 percent of the Territorial Force, a higher proportion than Māori employment in the general civilian workforce.[9] With the Māori cultural resurgence of the late twentieth century, the Army was well-prepared to embrace change, as this resurgence brought about transformations within the Army.

The rejuvenation of the New Zealand Army’s culture, initiated by the Chief of the General Staff (CGS) in 1994, was swiftly implemented. While the Army badge retained its traditional British design, it was modified to include a taiaha (a traditional Māori weapon) instead of a sword, and a scroll was added, bearing the inscription “Ngāti Tumatauenga” at its base.[10]

The Army Marae, known as Rongomaraeroa-o-ngā-hau-e-whā, was officially dedicated during Labour Weekend in 1995. It holds a special place within the New Zealand Army, serving as the central point that all members, regardless of race, gender, or creed, pass through on their military journey. Its unique orientation, facing west towards the setting sun, sets this Marae apart. This symbolic positioning conveys a powerful message: Ngāti Tumatauenga is the nation’s guardian, protecting it day and night.

Rejuvenating the army’s culture was not without its share of challenges. The Army Marae, in contrast to traditional Maraes, has a less formal atmosphere. One recruit even commented, “The Māori culture here is quite different! I come from a place where it’s deeply ingrained. I told my dad that when we went to the Marae, they spoke English!” [11] Despite this critique, another soldier of Māori descent explained that “Ngāti Tumatauenga symbolizes the fusion of the Imperial soldier’s spirit with the Mana of the Māori warrior. This reflects the positive partnership principle of the Treaty of Waitangi and fills many with pride when including Ngāti Tumatauenga in their pepeha.”[12]

The introduction of Ngāti Tumatauenga faced initial resistance and skepticism. Its swift implementation caught many Army members off guard, leading to an abrupt and sometimes aggressive cultural shift. However, many of the original detractors and skeptics have come to embrace and appreciate the benefits of adopting Ngāti Tumatauenga.[13]

Approaching its twenty-fifth year, Ngāti Tumatauenga has gained acceptance within the community as a legitimate iwi (tribe). Māori performing arts play a significant role in promoting and preserving the Army’s cultural ethos. Ngāti Tumatauenga participates in national-level Kapa Haka competitions, sometimes with non-Māori individuals leading performances.[14] [15]Additionally, Māori performing arts, such as Kapa Haka, serve as a military and diplomatic tool on the international stage, highlighting how the shared Māori and European military heritage upholds the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and advances the interests of the New Zealand people.[16]

In conclusion, the transformation of the New Zealand Army into Ngāti Tumatauenga, the “Tribe of the God of War,” reflects the aspirations of early Māori and European settlers in New Zealand and their vision of unity under the terms of the Treaty of Waitangi. The journey from 1840 to 1994 was marked by conflicts between Māori and the Crown, shaping the Māori and Pākehā relationship into one that acknowledges each other’s martial capabilities. The World Wars of the early twentieth century saw New Zealand Expeditionary Forces and Māori Battalions earning respect from allies and adversaries, ultimately paving the way for Māori integration into the post-war New Zealand Army. Riding the wave of a resurgent Māori culture, the leadership of the New Zealand Army took a significant risk by embarking on cultural rejuvenation. The New Zealand Army, transformed into the iwi (tribe) of Ngāti Tumatauenga, has evolved into a unique entity, shaped and defined by the influences of a resurgent Māori culture and the combined martial traditions of European soldiers and Māori warriors. Their shared history, heritage, and wartime experiences have cemented this transformation.

Bibliography

Primary Sources

Major-General A.l.Birks. “Chief of General Staff Directive 9/94; the Army’s Culture.” Wellington: Army General Staff, HQ New Zealand Defence Force, 1994.

New Zealand Army. “The Army Culture.” NZ Army Publication (NZ P77) Why? Chapter 3, Section 1  (2014).

Secondary Sources

Published

Brosnahan, Seán. “Ngāti Tūmatauenga and the Kilties: New Zealand’s Ethnic Military Traditions.” In A Global Force: War, Identities and Scotland’s Diaspora, edited by David Forsyth, 168-92: Edinburgh University Press, 2016.

Cooke, Peter, and John Crawford. The Territorials. Wellington: Random House New Zealand Ltd, 2011.

Corbett, D. A. The Regimental Badges of New Zealand: An Illustrated History of the Badges and Insignia Worn by the New Zealand Army. Auckland, N.Z. : Ray Richards, 1980, Revised Edition, 1980.

Harding, Nina Joy. “You Bring It, We will Bring It Out”: Becoming a Soldier in the New Zealand Army: A Thesis Presented in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Social Anthropology at Massey University, Manawatū, New Zealand. 2016.

Hohaia, Debbie. “In Search of a Decolonised Military: MāOri Cultural Learning Experiences in the New Zealand Defence Force.” Kōtuitui (Online)  (2016).

McKenzie, Peter. “How the NZ Army Became an Iwi.”  https://www.newsroom.co.nz/2018/11/25/331569/peter-mckenzie-on-army-as-an-iwi-for-monday.

Oldham, Geoffrey P. Badges and Insignia of the New Zealand Army: An Illustrated Price Guide to Cap and Collar Badges, Insignia and Shoulder Titles of the N.Z. Army, Police & Militia, from 1847 to the Present Day. New and rev. Ed ed.: Milimem Books, 2011.

Soutar, Monty. Ngā Tama Toa = He Toto Heke, He Tipare Here Ki Te Ūkaipo : Kamupene C, Ope Taua (Maori) 28 1939-1945 : I Tuhia Tenei Pukapua I Roto I Te Reo Maori. David Bateman, 2014.

Taylor, Richard Tribe of the War God: Ngati Tumatauenga. Heritage New Zealand, 1996. .

Te Ao Māori News. “Te Matatini 2015 – Te Kapa Haka O Kairanga.”  https://www.maoritelevision.com/news/regional/te-matatini-2015-te-kapa-haka-o-kairanga.

Unpublished

“Discussions conducted by author with various members of the New Zealand  Army “. 2019.

Notes

[1] Major-General A.l.Birks, “Chief of General Staff Directive 9/94; the Army’s Culture,” (Wellington: Army General Staff, HQ New Zealand Defence Force, 1994).

[2] Peter McKenzie, “How the NZ Army Became an Iwi,”  https://www.newsroom.co.nz/2018/11/25/331569/peter-mckenzie-on-army-as-an-iwi-for-monday.

[3] New Zealand Army, “The Army Culture,” NZ Army Publication (NZ P77) Why? Chapter 3, Section 1  (2014).

[4] Richard  Taylor, Tribe of the War God : Ngati Tumatauenga (Heritage New Zealand, 1996), Bibliographies, Non-fiction, 110-11.

[5] Although many NZ badges follow British badge design conventions and in many cases are direct copies, many badges have also included many unique New Zealnd features such as the adoption of Māori iconography and symbols and use Te Reo Māori in place of the traditional English or latin for mottoes. D. A. Corbett, The Regimental Badges of New Zealand : An Illustrated History of the Badges and Insignia Worn by the New Zealand Army (Auckland, N.Z. : Ray Richards, 1980, Revised enl. edition, 1980), Non-fiction, 9-17.

[6] Seán Brosnahan, “Ngāti Tūmatauenga and the Kilties: New Zealand’s Ethnic Military Traditions,” in A Global Force: War, Identities and Scotland’s Diaspora, ed. David Forsyth (Edinburgh University Press, 2016), 168-83.

[7] New Zealand Army, “The Army Culture.”

[8] Monty Soutar, Ngā Tama Toa = He Toto Heke, He Tipare Here Ki Te Ūkaipo : Kamupene C, Ope Taua (Maori) 28 1939-1945 : I Tuhia Tenei Pukapua I Roto I Te Reo Maori (David Bateman, 2014), Bibliographies, Non-fiction, 35.

[9] Peter Cooke and John Crawford, The Territorials (Wellington: Random House New Zealand Ltd, 2011), 371.

[10] Geoffrey P. Oldham, Badges and Insignia of the New Zealand Army : An Illustrated Price Guide to Cap and Collar Badges, Insignia and Shoulder Titles of the N.Z. Army, Police & Militia, from 1847 to the Present Day, New and rev. ed ed. (Milimem Books, 2011), Bibliographies,Non-fiction, 92.

[11] Nina Joy Harding, “You Bring It, We’ll Bring It Out” : Becoming a Soldier in the New Zealand Army : A Thesis Presented in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Social Anthropology at Massey University, Manawatū, New Zealand (2016), Non-fiction, 130.

[12] McKenzie, “How the NZ Army Became an Iwi”.

[13] “Discussuions Conducted by Author with Various Members of the New Zealsnd  Army Command Chain.,”  (2019).

[14] Te Ao Māori News, “Te Matatini 2015 – Te Kapa Haka O Kairanga,”  https://www.maoritelevision.com/news/regional/te-matatini-2015-te-kapa-haka-o-kairanga.

[15] Debbie Hohaia, “In Search of a Decolonised Military : MāOri Cultural Learning Experiences in the New Zealand Defence Force,” Kōtuitui (Online)  (2016): 52.

[16] Ibid.

Auckland Defence Store, 1861 – 1903

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Throughout the early 1860s, elements from the Militia and Volunteers supported the Imperial troops undertaking the bulk of the military operations in the early years of the New Zealand Wars. In 1861 as George Grey assumed the role of Governor for a second term, Grey undertook a policy of conciliation while also preparing for war.  As General Cameron built up his Imperial forces, Gray reviewed and overhauled the citizen forces of New Zealand. In January 1862, new regulations for the volunteer force were issued, followed on 18 September by the Colonial Defence Act of 1862.  This Act saw the formation of the Colonial Defence Force, the first regular Force in New Zealand. Under the Quartermaster General of the Colonial Defence Force, Captain Robert Collins, the Colonial Store Department and the Militia Store Department assumed the store’s responsibility for the Militia, Volunteer and Regular Forces of New Zealand.

In Auckland, the Colonial Store Department and the Militia Store Department initially operated out of offices on Princes Street. However, approval was granted in October 1863 for the erection of a store adjacent to the Imperial Armoury near the Symonds street entrance to the Albert Barracks.[1]  The two Store Departments essentially carried out the same functions, and in 1865 the post of Superintended of Militia Stores held by Mr E.D King was disestablished with the responsibility for colonial defence stores centralised under the Colonial Storekeeper, Captain John Mitchell.

Military Store Albert Barracks 1871

A review of colonial defence with a reliance on local forces taking over from Imperial Forces saw the passing of the Armed Constabulary Act of 10 October 1867. This Act combined police and military functions into the regular Armed Constabulary (AC) Force. The AC Force was supported by Maori loyal to the crown, Militia and Volunteer units, with Defence Storekeepers in Auckland, Whanganui and Wellington providing the required logistic support.[2]

In April 1869, Lieutenant Colonel Edward Gorton was appointed as the Inspector of Defence Stores, establishing his office at Molesworth Street in Wellington, bringing all New Zealand’s Defence storekeepers under his control.  By January 1869, as the withdrawal of Imperial units became imminent, the dismantling of their central logistic hub at Auckland’s Fort Britomart and Albert Barracks had commenced, with military stores, including guns and ammunition that were not auctioned off to the public or purchased by the New Zealand Government, shipped to the United Kingdom. The departure of the British Military Storekeeper Joseph Osbertus Hamley in July 1870 marked the final withdrawal of Imperial Forces from New Zealand, with the Auckland Defence Store taking over ownership of the Armoury and Magazines located in Albert Barracks.

In May 1869, Captain John Mitchell was suspended as the Auckland Storekeeper due to unauthorised absences. Resigning in July, Major William St Clair Tisdall replaced Mitchell as acting Storekeeper. A small staff assisted Tisdall, some of whom had served in the stores since 1861, including

  • John Blomfield, Clerk
  • John Price, Clerk
  • David Evitt, Armourer Sergeant
  • Arms Cleaners
    • Mr’s F Gibbons,
    • J Penligan and
    • C.C Rockley

Following the departure of Imperial units, the future of Albert Barracks came under debate. In addition to the Defence Stores, the only other military use of the former barracks was by the local Militia and Volunteers, who retained a drill hall and utilised the parade round. The Auckland Improvement (Albert Barrack Reserves) Act of 1872 repealed previous Acts relating to the status of Albert Barracks and placed responsibility for the management and disposal of the land under the Auckland Improvement Commissioners.[3] The Auckland Improvement Commissioners drew up and oversaw plans to develop the bulk of the Barracks into a recreational reserve, with other areas subdivided into roads and plots of land for further development.

By 1871 the growth of Auckland now placed the ageing powder magazine in the centre of a built-up area, raising concerns about its safety. New powder magazines were constructed at Mount Eden, with the first stocks transferred from Albert Park to Mount Eden in September, following which the Albert Barracks magazines were demolished.[4]  With the Auckland district’s supply of ammunition now safely stored at Mount Eden under the care of the Defence Stores magazine keeper, Tisdall and the remaining staff of Storemen and Armourers remained at Albert Barracks.[5] Initially located in the old Imperial Armoury building at the Symonds Street entrance of Albert Barracks, it was considered an obstruction to the Commissioner’s projected improvements.[6] To allow the extension of Princes Street and subdivision of the land between Princes and Symonds Street, in July 1873,  the Defence Stores had been moved into the well-constructed stone building that had previously been the Barracks hospital.[7] The new building included ample accommodation for warlike stores, including small workshops and a forge.[8] The only remnant of the site of the old Armoury were two Russian 18-pounder guns taken at the Crimea and presented by the Imperial Government to the colony of New Zealand in the late 1850s.[9]

The Defence Stores building in Albert Park was described by the Auckland Star as the “hideous eyesore in Albert Park’ and considered a blight on the skyline as it obstructed the view from the park that had been established to replace the Barracks.[10]  By 1883 an agreement was reached between the Auckland Council and the Government, with a plot of land in O’Rourke Street provided to allow the relocation of the Defence Stores.[11] 

Queen St with Albert Barracks on the left hillside C1870-1979. Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 898-9969

When the proposal was first mooted to relocate the Defence Store, plans were prepared in the Auckland Public Works office for a three-storied building equal in space to the present location. However, as it intended to centralise the operations of the Defence Stores in Wellington, the original design was countermanded with a design for a smaller building substituted. Tenders for the erection of the new Defence Stores building were published on 10 May 1883 for a building meeting the following specifications,

  • to be constructed of brick, two storeys in height, with a concrete foundation,
  • to have a frontage of 25 feet with a depth of 36 feet.
  • the ground floor was to have
    • a passage seven feet wide,
    • two 18×18 apartments,
    • a staircase leading from the ground floor to the upper storey
  • The upper floor subdivided into
    • An 18×8 office, compartment with lift,
    • a 14 x18 room
    • an 11 x 18 room
  • To the rear of the building
    • a 14×25 shed with an asphalted floor for gun carriages
    • a 6×14 coal shed,
    • a 14×20 Armourer’s shop.

Due to the considerable amount of material accumulated in the old Defence Stores over its many years of operation, Captain Sam Anderson, the Chief Defence Storekeeper, assisted in a stocktake of the old store as it was decommissioned, ensuring only essential materials were transferred to the new building.  Surplus stores were disposed of by tender or redistributed, including over 2000 obsolete muzzle-loading muskets relocated to the Defence Store in Wellington.[12] The old Stores building was soon demolished with much of the material used in the construction of the new building, with the only reminder of the military’s residence of Albert Park being a small portion of the Barracks wall and a few old cannons on display in the new ornamental gardens.

The New Defence Store in O’Rourke Street was one of the earliest purpose-built Storehouses built for New Zealand’s Military. Up to this period, many of the buildings utilised by the Defence Stores were inherited from the Imperial Forces or requisitioned commercial premises.

By 1888, the cost of maintaining a peacetime military had reached the point where cutbacks and savings across the Defence budget had to be made. As part of several reductions across the Defence Department, the Auckland Defence Store was drastically downsized, resulting in the retirement or redundancy of most of the staff. The closure of the Auckland Defence Stores was met with dismay, with the press questioning it as an absurd decision, with the New Zealand Herald noting in an editorial that the closure of the Auckland Defence Store was” solely arising from the Wellington authorities having want of local knowledge and of the requirements of the place.” This pushback on the closure of the Auckland Defence Store resulted in a short reprieve for  James Bloomfield, the Defence Storekeeper in Auckland, who had served since 1861, was granted a reprieve from redundancy and allowed to extend his tenure, retiring in December 1888, handing over the responsibilities of Defence Storekeeper for Auckland to Major John William Gascoyne of the New Zealand Permanent Militia.[13] Following Gascoyne’s departure in 1891, the responsibilities of Auckland Defence Storekeeper were assumed by the Adjutant of the Auckland Brigade Office, who oversaw the duties of the Magazine Keeper at Mount Eden, Mr J Hawthorn.[14]

Concurrent with the Adjutant taking over the Defence Storekeepers’ responsibilities, the Auckland Brigade Office was moved from its offices in the Auckland Supreme Court into the Defence Store O’Rourke Street building, from where the Adjutant conducted his duties related to the Auckland Volunteers and the Defence Stores.[15] This shared arrangement remained in place into the early years of the twentieth century and even saw a telephone installed in 1902.

Routine activities conducted by the Auckland Defence Stores in O’Rourke Street included various tenders to provide uniforms and repair equipment. Following the bloodless Dog Tax War of 1898, the Defence Store in O’Rourke street took custody of the surrendered arms, including [16]

  • one Winchester repeating rifle
  • one Winchester carbine
  • two Green’s American patent Snider breech-loading rifles
  • one Snider rifle
  • one muzzle-loading carbine
  • one Lee Bolt shotgun, single barrel
  • three breech-loading single-barrel guns.
  • three double-barrel breech loaders (nearly new)
  • ten double-barrel muzzle-loading guns
  • two single-barrel guns
  • four bundles of ammunition (various)

 In 1903 the Police expressed an interest in taking over the building as accommodation for the Auckland Police Commissioner. Following an inspection by the Defence Storekeeper, Mr James O’Sullivan, arrangements were made to transfer the Defence Stores from the O’Rourke Street Property to Mount Eden and hand the building over to the Police.[17] In 1904, the Defence Stores building handover to the Police was concluded, ending the sixty-year relationship between Auckland’s Albert Park and the Military.

The Police fully refurbished the former Defence Store Building into a residential villa. The building survived into the 1960s when it was demolished to allow the construction of Auckland University.

1905 view of the refurbished Defence Store building(Center of the photo next to Police Station)

Despite the construction of new buildings for the Defence Stores in Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin during the early 1900s, no new permanent buildings were constructed for the Auckland Defence Stores as the existing powder magazines at Mount Eden, constructed in 1871, were deemed sufficient to meet current and projected needs. Following the transition of the Defence Stores into the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps in 1917, a new Ordnance Depot was constructed for the Northern Region to replace the infrastructure at Mount Eden in the late 1920s. However, it was not in Auckland but at Hopuhopu in the Waikato. Temporary Ordnance Stores were established in Auckland during World War Two, utilising rented commercial premises.  In the post-war era, ordnance warehouses established at Syliva Park utilised buildings constructed for the United States Forces. Besides Explosive Store Houses at Ardmore, no permanent dedicated storage infrastructure was ever constructed for the RNZAOC in Auckland. 

The significance of the Defence Store building in O’Rourke Street is that, excluding smaller unit storehouses and ammunition storehouses, it remains the only purpose-built military warehouse constructed for the New Zealand Army in Auckland.

Notes

[1] Queen’s Redoubt Assistant Military Secretary, “Correspondence Stating That There Is No Objection to the Erection of a Store for Colonial Purposes Adjoining Armoury Albert Barracks,” Archives New Zealand Item No R24075932 (1863).

[2] M. R. Wicksteed, The New Zealand Army: A History from the 1840s to the 1980s ([Ministry of Defence, 1982), Non-fiction, 2-3.

[3] Under the provisions of the Public Domains Act 1860, the Auckland Military Reserves Act 1871 established the land that Albert Barracks occupied as Crown land.

[4] “New Power Magazine at Mount Eden,” New Zealand Herald, Volume VIII, Issue 2377, 7 September 1871.

[5] The Magazine Keeper was Mr J Broughton; Tindall’s other staff consisted of his Clerk Mr J Blomfield. Armourer Mr D Evitt and Three Arms Cleaners Mr’s F Gibbons, J Penligan and C.C Rockley. “D-13 Nominal Roll of the Civil Establishment of New Zealand on the 1st July 1872,” Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives (1872); “Nominal Return of Officer in Defence Department and Armed Constabulary Force on 1 July 1872,” Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1873 Session I, H-24a (1872).

[6] “Deputation from the Auckland Improvement Commissioners,” New Zealand Herald, Volume X, Issue 2859, 28 March 1873.

[7] “Militia Store Move,” Auckland Star, Volume IV, Issue 1087, 17 July 1873.

[8] “Wooden Building in Albert Barracks,” New Zealand Herald, Volume X, Issue 09, 30 September 1873.

[9] “Russian Guns,” New Zealand Herald, Volume XI, Issue 3927, 13 June 1874.

[10] “Albert Park Armoury,” Auckland Star, Volume XII, Issue 3523, 22 November 1881.

[11] Linking Princes and Symonds Streets, O’Rourke Street is now occupied by Auckland University, Captain Anderson, “Old Defence Store to Be Sold by Tender, All the Muzzle Loading Rifles to Be Sent by “Hinemoa”,” Archives New Zealand Item No R24280543 (1883).

[12] “Flashes,” Wanganui Herald, Volume XVII, Issue 5047, 27 April 1883.

[13] “Reductions in Civil Service,” Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1888 Session I, H-30, 11 May 1888.

[14] A. H. McLintock, ” Frederick John William Gascoyne,” http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/1966/gascoyne-or-gascoigne-frederick-john-william.

[15] “Volunteer Gossip,” Observer, Volume XI, Issue 656, (1891).

[16] “The Maori Trouble,” Auckland Star, Volume XXIX, Issue 114, 16 May 1898.

[17] Wellington Defence Storekeeper, ” Subject: Report of Inspection of Defence Stores Auckland. Again Urges Removal of Store from O’Rourke [O’rorke] Street to Mount Eden Cost to Be Met by Police Department ” Archives New Zealand Item No R24743403 (1903).

New Zealand Arms to Afghanistan

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Following the war in South Africa, the British Empire was at the height of its power and prestige. The Royal Navy ruled the oceans, and if British interests were threatened on land, Canada, Australia and New Zealand had proven their commitment to support the empire by contributing men and materiel. As the economic powerhouse of the empire, British India was the most significant jewel in the British Imperial crown. However, British India’s confidence that it had the support of British dominions was put to the test in 1909 when it was discovered that firearms from Australia and New Zealand were being provided to tribes on the North-West Frontier who were actively opposed to the interests of British India. So how did firearms from New Zealand end up in the hands of Pathan Tribesmen on the borders of modern-day Afghanistan and Pakistan?

As the New Zealand military reorganised and reequipped following the war in South Africa, new uniforms and equipment were introduced, and the .303inch cartridge adopted as the standard calibre for rifles, carbines and machine guns, resulting in the Defence Stores holding over 17,000 Snider, Martin-Henry and Remington Lee rifles, carbines and accoutrements and just under a million rounds of obsolete ammunition. The disposal of this stockpile was the most significant disposal of Arms and Ammunition undertaken by the Defence Stores throughout its existence which had the unintended consequence of arming Pathan tribesmen on the borders of British India.

Snider rifles were introduced into New Zealand service starting from 1868.

Top: Snider Long Rifle, Middle: Snider Medium (Hay) Rifle, Bottom: Snider Short (Sword) Rifle Photo J Osborne New Zealand Arms Register. http://www.armsregister.com/

The Sniders served thru to 1890, when they began to be superseded by Martini-Henry rifles and carbines.

Rifle, Martini-Henry, 1896, Enfield, by Royal Small Arms Factory. Gift of the Police Department, date unknown. CC BY-NC-ND 4.0. Te Papa (DM000372)

The introduction of cordite or smokeless powder ushered in the introduction of the .303 Martini-Enfield rifle leading to the progressive withdrawal of the Sniders and Martini-Henrys following the introduction of bolt action Lee Metford and Enfield rifles. With sufficient .303 calibre Martini-Enfield’s and an increasing amount of bolt action, magazine-fed Lee Metford and Enfield rifles available to arm the forces and provide a reserve, the Defence Council authorised a Board of Survey to be formed to investigate the disposal of the obsolete Sniders and Martinis in store.[1] In addition to Sniders and Martinis, there was also a quantity of .340 Remington-Lee rifles. In a bold move to provide New Zealand’s forces with the most modern of rifles, these were imported into New Zealand in 1887. However, due to unsatisfactory ammunition, the Remington-Lees were withdrawn from service in 1888.

Sitting in early 1907 and consisting of three officers, the Board of Survey weighed up the options for the disposal of the stockpile of obsolete weapons. Dumping the entire stock at sea was considered, but an anticipated outcry from the New Zealand press, as this means of disposal, would have been seen as another example of needless government waste, and this option was ruled out. A small but guaranteed financial benefit resulted in sale by tender being decided upon as the most practical means of disposal.[2]

The early 20th Century was a turbulent time in world history. The late 19th-century race by the European powers had left them all fighting colonial bush wars to suppress opposition and maintain control in their various colonial possessions. In Eastern Europe, the Balkans were aflame as the former European vassals of the Ottoman empire fought the Turks and each other as they struggled to gain their independence. Closer to New Zealand, as the emerging American and Japanese empires undertook colonial expansion in the Philippines and Korea, conflict and insurrection followed and were only quelled by the most brutal measures.

In this environment, the New Zealand Government was cognisant that there was a ready market for firearms, however as the Arms Act of New Zealand limited the bulk export of weapons from New Zealand, the conditions of the tender were clear that for any arms not purchased for use in New Zealand, the remainder were not to be exported to any country or place other than Great Britain.

The entire stock of firearms was stored at the Defence Stores at Wellington and packed 50 to 90 weapons per case. The tender terms allowed tenderers to quote for not less than 100 of any weapon. The quantities and types of weapons were,

  • .577 Snider rifles, short sword bayonets with scabbards – 6867
  • .577 Snider rifles, long – 978
  • .577 Snider carbines, artillery; sword bayonets with scabbards – 1957
  • .577 Snider carbines, cadet – 849
  • .577 Snider carbines, cavalry – 669
  • .577/450 Martini-Henry rifles, sword bayonets with scabbards – 4686
  • .577/450 Martini-Henry carbines – 520
  • Enfield carbines, Sword bayonets and scabbards – 103
  • .340 Remington Lee Rifles – 840
  • Swords, cavalry, with scabbards – 600

The ammunition was all of the black powder types, which, when fired, created a large amount of smoke exposing the rifleman’s position. An interesting ammunition type included in the tender was 106,000 rounds of Gardner-Gatling ammunition. This ammunition had been imported in the late 1880s as part of a demonstration lot, resulting in the purchase of a single Gardner Machine Gun by the New Zealand Government. The ammunition was stored in the magazines at Wellington and Auckland, with the tender terms allowing bids of less than 50,000 rounds of any mixture of ammunition. The ammunition types tendered were.

  • .577/450 Martini-Henry, ball, rifle, solid case – 189000 rounds
  • .577/450 Martini-Henry, ball, rifle, rolled case – 170000 rounds
  • .577/450 Martini-Henry, ball, carbine, rolled case – 120000 rounds
  • .577/450 Martini-Henry, blank – 240000 rounds
  • .577 Snider Ball – 150000 rounds
  • .45 Gardner Gatling, ball – 106,000 rounds

Notice of the tender was published by the Director of Military Stores, Captain James O’Sullivan, in the New Zealand press from 4 June 1907, with 14 June set as the final day for bids.[3]

The Tender Board accepted the highest tender in July 1907 with all the arms purchased by a Manchester firm through their New Zealand agents.

Much of the powder within the ammunition had caked and was unsuitable for use, leading to a significant part of the stocks being broken down into salvageable components in New Zealand. Under the supervision of Captain O’Sullivan, a record of each weapon was taken, recording the brands and serial numbers stamped on each weapon. As the weapons were packed into cases, the contents of each case were also recorded. The entire consignment was loaded onto the S.S. Mamari at Wellington, which sailed directly to London via the New Zealand Shipping Company’s usual route.  Included in the mail carried on the same voyage was a notification to the War Office in England providing complete shipment details. Providing these details to the War Office was not obligatory and only made on Captain O’Sullivan initiative. Four months later, the War Office received a reply asking why they had been sent all that information.

Approximately £6000 (2021 NZ$1,095,722) was realised by the entire sale of arms and ammunition.

Captain O’Sullivan’s attention to detail in dispatching the New Zealand firearms to England proved wise when in May 1909, the Calcutta Englishman, the leading daily newspaper in India, published an article stating that Weapons bearing Australian and New Zealand markings had been smuggled across the Pathan border.[4]

Rifle, Martini-Henry, 1896, Enfield, by Royal Small Arms Factory. Gift of the Police Department, date unknown. CC BY-NC-ND 4.0. Te Papa (DM000372)

While the Calcutta Englishman was accurate in its report that weapons bearing Australian and New Zeland Military markings had been found in the hands of Pathan tribesmen. The path the New Zealand weapons had taken to India was not the result of poor accounting by New Zealand’s Defence Stores, but rather the shady dealing of British second-hand arms dealers.

Notes

[1] “Defence Forces of New Zealand: Report by the Council of Defence and Extracts from the Report of the Inspector-General of the NZ Defence Forces, for the Year Ended 28th February 1908,” Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1909 Session II, H-19  (1909).

[2] “The Smuggled Rifles,” Star (Christchurch), Issue 9546, 19 May 1909.

[3] “Obsolete Arms,” New Zealand Times, Volume XXIX, Issue 6231, 10 June 1907.

[4] “Australasian Arms Smuggled into India,” Evening News (Sydney, NSW ) 12 May 1909.

Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps

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In British and Commonwealth military doctrine, there has long been a separation of responsibility for Supplies and Stores.

  • Supplies – The provisioning, storing, and distributing of food for soldiers; forage for animals; Fuel, Oil, and Lubricants (FOL) for Tanks, Trucks, and other fuel-powered vehicles and equipment; and the forward transport and distribution of ammunition. In the NZ Army, Supplies were managed by the New Zealand Army Service Corps (NZASC) from 1911 to 16 October 19789.
  • Stores – The provisioning, storage, and distribution of weapons, munitions, and military equipment are not managed by RNZASC. Stores were the Responsibility of the Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps (RNZAOC) until 1996.

Despite the separation of responsibilities, the RNZASC and RNZAOC would have a long and cooperative relationship for most of their existence.

During the early colonial days, the early actions of the New Zealand Wars proved that the New Zealand bush and the elusive tactics of the Maori presented new problems in supply and transport. An Imperial Supply and Transport Service was established and operated with the Imperial troops.

From the end of the New Zealand Wars until 1910, there was no ASC unit in New Zealand, with the supply functions required by the New Zealand Military provided by the Defence Stores Department.

After the conclusion of the South African War, the Military Forces in New Zealand embarked on a series of reforms to enhance the organisation and capability of the nation’s military, enabling it to contribute effectively to a broader Imperial Defence scheme. In 1910, at the request of the New Zealand Government, Field Marshal Viscount Kitchener inspected New Zealand’s Forces. Kitchener provided several recommendations concerning the ongoing reforms, emphasising the need for a professional Staff Corps to administer the force and confirming the requirement for a New Zealand ASC, which was gazetted on 12 May 1910 (backdated to 6 May 1910) as a designated component of the Territorial Forces of New Zealand.

The momentum for these reforms gained further impetus with the appointment of Major General Alexander Godley as the New Zealand Military Forces Commandant in December 1910. Godley was pivotal in revitalising New Zealand’s military organisational framework in his first year, making critical command and staff appointments, promulgating the (Provisional) Regulations for the Military Forces of New Zealand, and making plans to build up the NZASC, which up to this time had remained a paper corps.

Acknowledging the highly specialised nature of ASC duties, distinct from combatant staff and regimental officers, and the absence of suitably qualified officers in New Zealand, Godley recommended to the Minister of Defence on 4 January 1911 the lending of services of an experienced Imperial ASC Senior Captain or Major to organise and train New Zealand’s transport and supply services for three years. The Minister of Defence endorsed this recommendation with the Prime Minister cabling the New Zealand High Commissioner in London on 10 January 1910 to approach the Army Council for the following:

Services of experienced Army Service Corps major or senior captain required to organise New Zealand Army Service Corps. Engagement for three years. Salary £600 a year consolidated. Pay to include house allowance. Travelling allowance of 12/6d a day and allowance for one horse if kept, will also be granted. 

Within two months of receiving New Zealand’s request for an ASC Officer, the Army Council promptly and affirmatively responded to the call. Having already sanctioned nine additional officers to assist Godley, the Council selected Knox, who then served in C (Depot) Company ASC at Aldershot for service in New Zealand to organise the NZASC.

Under the guidance of New Zealand Adjutant and Quartermaster-General Colonel Alfred Robin, Knox assumed his duties as the New Zealand DST at the Army General Staff Offices on Wellington’s Buckle Street. His responsibilities encompassed a wide range of functions, including quarters, tender and contracts, personal and freight movement, and presidency on two standing committees related to Drill sheds and the storage and distribution of clothing and equipment to the forces.

Recognising Knox’s extensive duties, he was granted the Temporary Rank of Lieutenant Colonel on 6 September 1911. With Colonel Robin’s appointment as the New Zealand representative at the War Office in London in 1912, Knox assumed the additional role of Quartermaster General (QMG). Despite Knox diligently fulfilling the role of QMG and DST, progress on the formation of the NZASC was slow.

By 1914, Knox had established 16 NZASC companies of approximately 30 men each across the four New Zealand Military Districts, with imported ASC officers serving as Assistant Directors of Supply and Transport (ADST) in each District Headquarters.   Although Knox had departed by the time of the 1914 divisional camps, the Inspector General of Imperial Forces, General Sir Ian Hamilton, noted following his inspection that:

The very highest credit is due to the Army Service Corps officers and their men. They have done a first-class service, although as a rule undermanned to an extent that would fill a labour union with horror. When the Army Service Corps units are up to their normal strengths, a suitable system of calling the men up to camp in relays will enable the necessary duties to be carried out as efficiently and with much less strain on the personnel.

During World War One, New Zealand ASC units fulfilled crucial functions. ASC Companies supported the Territorial Infantry and Mounted Rifle Brigades. At the same time, Supply and Transport Units aided mobilisation camps within New Zealand. Overseas, the NZASC operated across all New Zealand theatres of war, delivering indispensable services. At its zenith, it managed the NZ Divisional Train, five ASC Companies, five Depot Units of Supply, the NZ Field Bakery, the NZ Field Butchery, and the NZ Motor Transport Workshop. Notably, the NZASC and NZAOC frequently shared personnel, facilities, and transportation, especially in the conflict’s early years.

In 1917 the NZAOC was established as a permanent component of the New Zealand Military Forces, however, it would not be until 1924 that the Permanent NZASC was formed.

Post-war, under the leadership of Captain Stanley Herbert Crump, the NZASC transitioned to a peacetime establishment comprising a Headquarters and three depots (Northern, Central, and Southern). In 1924, the Permanent NZASC (PNZASC) was established as part of the permanent Military Forces. Additionally, in 1925, an alliance between the NZASC and the Royal Army Service Corps (RASC) was ratified.

The RASC has its roots in history that are much more profound. Up to the time of Cromwell, armies mainly lived by plunder. The RASC came into being in 1888. but the work it now performs was being done long before that.

Cromwell and then the Duke of Marlborough, and later Napoleon, organised a system of civilian commissaries. The Duke of York established the Corps of Royal Waggoners in 1794. This purely transport organisation continued until 1869 under various names, eventually as the Military Train, fighting as light cavalry in the Indian Mutiny.

The birth of the Supplies and Transport Service dates from 1869. when supplies and transport, along with the Military Stores Department, came under one department called the Control Department, it remained for General Sir Redvers Buller in 1888 to organise the first Army Service Corps. Since its formation, the RASC has been a combatant one. Trained and armed as infantry and responsible for its own protection. Considerd a more technical Corps, the RAOC was not granted combatant status until 1942.

In 1931, under Crump’s continued leadership, the NZASC underwent a reorganisation into three Composite Companies. Each company comprised seven officers, four warrant officers, and 99 other ranks, establishing a solid foundation from which the NZASC could readily expand to meet the demands of future conflicts.

During World War Two, numerous units and establishments represented the NZASC across all New Zealand Expeditionary Force (NZEF) theatres. Similar to the previous World War, the NZASC maintained a collaborative relationship with New Zealand Ordnance Corps (NZOC) Ammunition Examiners (AEs) in the establishment of NZASC Ammunition platoons. At times, NZASC Warrant Officers were attached to the NZ Divisional Ordnance Field Park (OFP) to offer technical advice on vehicle spares. In recognition of the NZASC’s service during WW2, the title “Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps” was conferred in 1946.

In the post-war era, the NZASC and from 1946, the RNZASC would serve with distinction J Force in Japan and then contribute the second-largest New Zealand contingent to K Force in Korea by providing 10 Transport Company. Playing a pivotal role in sustaining the morale and effectiveness of New Zealand forces during these conflicts

Until 1947, NZASC units primarily handled baking bread, butchering meat, and procuring and distributing fresh and packaged provisions to frontline units, while regimental cooks and stewards were responsible for cooking and serving meals. To enhance and standardise cooking practices throughout the army, the Supplies and Transport Catering Group (STCG) was established on 15 February 1948 with the following objectives:

  • Training and provision of unit cooks and kitchen hands.
  • Instruction and supervision of the management of the Army ration scale.
  • Improvement of food preparation and cooking standards.
  • Advice on the installation and operation of cooking appliances and kitchen equipment.
  • Guidance on the layout of mess buildings.

In September 1948, all Regimental catering staff, except those of the New Zealand Women’s Army Corps, were transferred into the RNZASC. Throughout the 1950s, 60s, and 70s, the RNZASC played a vital role within the New Zealand Army, encompassing a wide range of functions. These included everyday tasks such as cooking and serving food, as well as more complex operations like air supply drops. To manage the procurement, storage, transportation, and distribution of essential supplies such as food, fuels, and oils for a modern Army, the RNZASC operated Supply Depots and employed various tradespeople, including butchers. Supply Depots were strategically located in Papakura, Waiouru, Linton, Trentham, and Burnham, where bulk supplies were stored and distributed as needed. Additionally, every Army camp featured a section of the RNZASC, along with smaller supply and transport depots, which were responsible for handling goods from central supply depots and providing drivers and transport services for various purposes. These smaller depots were situated in Devonport/Fort Caultley,

ANZUK Supply Platoon, Singapore – 1972 Standing L to R: Cpl Parker, RAASC. Cpl Olderman, RAASC, Cpl Mcintyre, RAOC. Sgt Frank, RAOC. Cpl Rangi, RNZASC. Sgt Locke, RNZASC. Sgt Bust, RAOC. Pte Mag, RAASC. Cpl David, RAASC. Sitting L to R: Sgt Kietelgen, RAASC. WO2 West, RAOC. Capt Mcnice, RAOC. Maj Hunt, RAASC. Lt Fynn, RAASC. WO2 Cole, RAASC. WO2 Clapton. RAASC

Following the Macleod report that recommended the streamlining of logistic support for the British Army, the RASC merged in 1965 with the Royal Engineers’ Transportation and Movement Control Service to form the Royal Corps of Transport (RCT). This would see the RASC Supply functions transferred to the Royal Army Ordnance Corps (RAOC). In 1973, following the British lead, the Australians also reformed their Royal Australian Army Service Corps (RAASC) into the Royal Australian Army Corps of Transport (RAACT).

Acknowledging the British and Australian experience, the RNZASC underwent a similar transition—operational command of the Supply function transferred to the RNZAOC on 16 October 1978. On 12 May 1979, the RNZASC ceased to exist: Supply personnel formally transferred to the RNZAOC, while Transport, Movements, and Catering were re-formed as the Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport (RNZCT)..

The RNZASC supply function would be integrated into the RNZAOC, with the Camp Supply Depots becoming NZAOC Supply Platoons numbered as.

  • 14 Supply Platoon, Papakura/Hopuhopu
  • 24 Supply Platoon, Linton
  • 34 Supply Platoon, Burnham
  • 44 Supply Platoon, Waiouru
  • 54 Supply Platoon, Trentham
  • NZ Supply Platoon, Singapore

In recognition of its long RNZASC service, 21 Supply Company was retained as a Territorial unit, initially as the Territorial element of 4 Supply Company in Waiouru and later as the Territorial element of 2 Supply Company, Linton. Today, 21 Supply is the principal North Island Supply unit of the Royal New Zealand Army Logistic Regiment (RNZALR).

For a short period following the RNZAOC assumption of Supply functions, some RF and TF RNZAOC would periodically be employed within the RNZCT transport Squadrons’ Combat Supplies sections.

The RNZAOC Butcher trade inherited from the RNZASC would be discontinued in the mid-1980s, with the last of the butchers reclassifying as RNZAOC Suppliers. By the mid-1990s, it was decided as a cost-saving measure to allow the RNZCT catering staff to order directly from commercial foodstuff suppliers, effectively ending the RNZAOC foodstuffs speciality. The only RNZASC trade speciality remaining in the RNZAOC after its amalgamation into the RNZALR was that of Petroleum Operator.

The Royal NZ Army Service Corps & Corps of Transport, like the RNZAOC, have passed their combined responsibilities to the RNZALR. However, the Royal NZ Army Service Corps & Corps of Transport maintain a strong association that provides many benefits and opportunities for comradeship to RNZASC/CT Corps members and past and present members of the RNZALR. Another role of the RNZASC/CT association is to ensure that the rich and significant history of the RNZASC/CT is not lost to future generations of the RNZALR.

Copies of the RNZASC/CT association newsletter can be viewed here

NZ Defence Stores July 1869 – June 1870

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The year from July 1869 to June 1870 marked the beginning of a more formal Defence Stores system in New Zealand. Military storekeeping had existed since the earliest colonial militia arrangements, but this period saw the Defence Stores Department recognised as a permanent component of the New Zealand Forces, with a dedicated vote, named staff, and clearer responsibility for managing the large quantities of arms, ammunition, clothing, accoutrements and equipment accumulated during the New Zealand Wars.

Military storekeeping in New Zealand had roots reaching back to 1840, when Henry Tucker was appointed Colonial Storekeeper and became responsible for the arms, ammunition and accoutrements issued to the early militia. During the 1850s and 1860s, responsibility for equipping militia and volunteer forces remained closely linked to the Colonial Secretary and later to the Defence Department. The Militia Act 1858 allowed Volunteer units to be formed for service beyond strictly local defence, while the Colonial Defence Force Act 1862 created a small regular colonial force and formalised the role of the Defence Minister and Defence Department. These changes created a more distinct administrative framework for the colony’s regular, militia and volunteer forces.

This was also the moment when New Zealand’s policy of military self-reliance reached its practical conclusion. Imperial forces were in the final stages of withdrawal, colonial operations were still active in the North Island, and the Government was left to manage the material consequences of a decade of war. In that setting, the Defence Stores Department was not an administrative luxury. It was the mechanism by which the colony controlled, repaired, redistributed and accounted for the war material on which the Armed Constabulary, Militia and Volunteers depended.

In October 1867, the Colonial Defence Force was disbanded under the Armed Constabulary Act 1867, with its regular members transferred to the Armed Constabulary. At the same time, the Public Stores Act 1867 provided an important administrative foundation for government storekeeping. It established a more comprehensive policy for the custody, issue and accountability of public stores. As government organisations, the Armed Constabulary, Militia and Volunteers were therefore subject to the same broad expectations of public accountability that Lieutenant-Colonel Edward Gorton would soon attempt to apply to military stores.

A new system under Edward Gorton

In April 1869, Lieutenant-Colonel Edward Gorton was appointed Inspector of Stores.[1] His appointment did not create military storekeeping in New Zealand, but it did give the Defence Stores a stronger central authority. Gorton inherited a scattered and uneven system, with stores held at Auckland, Wellington, Whanganui, Patea, frontier posts, magazines and former campaign depots. Much of this material had been purchased in haste during the wars and was now required either for continued operations, for local defence, or for storage under more accountable arrangements.

The Defence Stores was not a new organisation in functional terms. It represented the consolidation of earlier Militia Stores and Colonial Stores arrangements that had emerged during the 1860s. The change in 1869 was that Defence Stores were now treated as a permanent part of the military system, with a dedicated establishment and a central Inspector of Stores.

The Department was funded under Class VIII, “Militia, Volunteers, and Armed Constabulary.” The 1869 Appropriation Act authorised total Defence expenditure of £230,799 14s 2d for the year ending 30 June 1870, equivalent to approximately $41.0 million in 2026 NZD. Within this, the Store Department was voted £3,180, equivalent to approximately $564,700 in 2026 NZD.[2]

Gorton’s early work was practical rather than ceremonial. He established his office in Wellington, assisted by his clerk, G. S. Lockie, and drafted new rules, regulations and forms for keeping store accounts. This was an essential first step in turning scattered wartime holdings into an accountable Defence Stores system.

Lieutenant Colonel Edward Gorton

 One of his early tours, in November 1869, took him from Auckland aboard the Government paddle steamer Sturt to military depots and garrisons on the East Coast, where he found stores accumulated for recent operations but not used.[3] This was the essential problem of the period: not simply a shortage of stores, but poor visibility, uneven distribution and insufficient central control.

The practical value of Gorton’s emphasis on stocktaking was demonstrated almost immediately. On 29 July 1869, he completed a stocktake and reorganisation of the Wellington Militia Store. Two days later the store was burgled and several items of clothing were stolen. Because the store had just been checked, Sergeant Crowe was able to identify the nature and quantity of the missing items, enabling an accurate report to be made to the Wellington Police. The offender and accomplices were soon apprehended, reportedly while wearing some of the stolen clothing.

Defence finance, 1869–70

The surviving official accounts are organised around the financial year ending 30 June 1870. They show the scale of the military burden still carried by the colony.

The Appropriation Act authorised £812,780 18s 5d for the year, including £230,799 14s 2d for Defence.[4] In the Defence vote, the Store Department was a modest item when compared with the Armed Constabulary and contingent defence expenditure, but its importance was out of proportion to its cost. Without storekeepers, armourers, arms cleaners, magazine keepers and clerks, the weapons, ammunition and stores purchased during the previous decade could not be controlled or maintained.

The Public Accounts for 1869–70 recorded Store Department expenditure of £2,953 8s 7d, equivalent to approximately $524,500 in 2026 NZD. This consisted of £1,621 10s for the salaries of the Inspector, Storekeepers and Clerks, £1,065 18s 6d for Armourers and Arms Cleaners, £229 0s 7d for rent, advertising and contingencies, and £36 19s 6d for travelling expenses of Inspecting Officers. The Department underspent its vote by £226 11s 5d, equivalent to approximately $40,200 in 2026 NZD.[5]

Store Department expenditure, 1869–70Original amountApprox. 2026 NZD
Inspector, Storekeepers and Clerks, salaries£1,621 10s 0d$288,000
Armourers and Arms Cleaners, salaries£1,065 18s 6d$189,300
Rent, advertising and contingencies£229 0s 7d$40,700
Travelling expenses of Inspecting Officers£36 19s 6d$6,600
Total Store Department expenditure£2,953 8s 7d$524,500
Carried to Reserve Account£226 11s 5d$40,200

A separate “Miscellaneous” defence vote also directly affected stores, arms and ammunition. It included expenditure on rifle prizes, passages for competitors, purchase of arms, purchase of ammunition, carriage and freight, insurance, repair of arms and contingencies. Actual expenditure under this heading was £6,547 0s 7d, equivalent to approximately $1.16 million in 2026 NZD.[6]

Selected defence stores-related miscellaneous expenditureOriginal amountApprox. 2026 NZD
Purchase of arms£623 5s 0d$110,700
Purchase of ammunition£1,768 5s 11d$314,000
Repair of arms£45 17s 6d$8,100
Carriage and freight£820 7s 11d$145,700
Miscellaneous contingencies£1,046 19s 5d$185,900

These figures show that Defence Stores was part of a wider material system. The formal Store Department paid the staff and operating expenses, while other defence votes funded the arms, ammunition, freight, repairs and support activities that gave the Department its workload.

Organisation and staff

The Defence Stores establishment for 1869–70 was small, but it was now sufficiently formal to identify both the appointments and, in many cases, the men holding them. The official accounts recorded the Store Department vote and expenditure by category, while later biographical and institutional research allows several appointments to be matched to named individuals.[7]

The following table combines the known authorised appointments, named holders where known, and approximate 2026 NZD equivalents.

LocationAppointmentNameAnnual salaryApprox. 2026 NZD
Head Office, WellingtonInspector of StoresLieutenant-Colonel Edward Gorton£500$88,800
Head Office, WellingtonClerk to Inspector of StoresG.S Lockie£150$26,600
AucklandActing Sub-StorekeeperMajor William St Clair Tisdall£250$44,400
AucklandClerkJohn Blomfield£160$28,400
AucklandClerkJohn Price£160$28,400
AucklandArmourer SergeantDavid Evitt£182$32,300
AucklandArms CleanerThomas Gibbons£109$19,400
AucklandArms CleanerCharles Phillips£109$19,400
AucklandArms CleanerWilliam Cook Rockley£109$19,400
AucklandArms CleanerJohn Penligen£109$19,400
AucklandMagazine Keeper, appointed January 1870J. Broughton£83$14,740
WellingtonStorekeeper, Armed Constabulary StoresSam Cosgrave Anderson£250$44,400
WellingtonStorekeeper, Militia and Volunteers / Defence StorekeeperLieutenant-Colonel H. E. Reader£100$17,800
WellingtonClerkAlexander Crowe£150$26,600
WellingtonArmourerArmourer Sergeant Edwin Henry Bradford£182$32,300
WellingtonArms CleanerJohn Shaw£109$19,400
WellingtonArms CleanerJames Smith£109$19,400
WellingtonArms CleanerWalter Christie£109$19,400
WellingtonArms CleanerW. Warren£109$19,400
WellingtonMagazine Keeper, appointed January 1870W. Corliss£63$11,188
WhanganuiSub StorekeeperCharles Chalkin£150$26,600
PateaSub-Storekeeper, from January 1870C.A Wray£150$26,600

This was a skeleton organisation for a national task. It had to support the Armed Constabulary, Militia and Volunteers, while managing stores from recent campaigns and the material legacy of Imperial withdrawal. These men were not yet members of an ordnance corps, but they performed many of the functions later associated with one: inspection, custody, repair, issue, receipt, magazine management and store accounting.

Auckland Defence Store

The Auckland Defence Store was located at Albert Barracks and remained the largest and most important Defence Store in New Zealand. Auckland had long been the principal military and stores centre, and although the Imperial presence was declining, the district still held large quantities of arms, ammunition and military equipment.

Captain John Mitchell, the former Colonial Storekeeper at Auckland, was suspended in May 1869 and resigned in July. Major William St Clair Tisdall was then appointed Acting Sub-Storekeeper of the Auckland Defence Stores. Tisdall was supported by clerks John Blomfield and John Price, Armourer Sergeant David Evitt, and arms cleaners Thomas Gibbons, Charles Phillips, William Cook Rockley and John Penligen. J. Broughton was appointed Magazine Keeper in January 1870.

The Auckland store was not merely a warehouse. It was responsible for arms, ammunition, magazines and repair support across a district where military stores had accumulated during years of war. Its importance was reinforced by the technical diversity of the weapons then in New Zealand service, including muzzle-loading arms, breech-loading conversions and Snider rifles.

Wellington Defence Stores and Mount Cook

In Wellington, the Defence Store was located at Mount Cook. The site was significant because it combined military, stores and Armed Constabulary functions. The Armed Constabulary Depot was also being developed at Mount Cook, and the Armed Constabulary Stores and Defence Store were closely associated, even where they remained technically distinct.

Sam Cosgrave Anderson controlled the Armed Constabulary Stores. Although his position was paid from within the Armed Constabulary budget and was technically part of the Armed Constabulary Depot, his work sat alongside the Defence Store system. Anderson had previously served as Clerk to the Militia Quartermaster at Patea and entered Gorton’s organisation in April 1869 before becoming Armed Constabulary Storekeeper late that year.

The Wellington Defence Store itself was under Lieutenant-Colonel H. E. Reader, who was also Commander of the Wellington District Militia. His staff included Sergeant Alexander Crowe as Clerk, Armourer Sergeant Edwin Henry Bradford, and arms cleaners John Shaw, James Smith, Walter Christie and W. Warren. W. Corliss was appointed Magazine Keeper in January 1870.

Whanganui and Patea

Whanganui had been a major military centre during the Tītokowaru War and retained a Defence Stores role into 1869–70. The Storekeeper position was held by Major Charles Chalkin, who was also Officer Commanding and Adjutant of the Whanganui Militia and Volunteers. By January 1870, as the immediate military situation changed, the Whanganui post was downgraded to that of Sub-Storekeeper.

Patea reflected the same pattern. With the main hostilities associated with the Tītokowaru War reduced, Patea became a regional hub rather than a forward campaign base. A Sub-Storekeeper was appointed there in January 1870 to manage Defence Stores affairs in the district, although the first holder of that appointment still requires confirmation.

These changes show that Defence Stores followed the geography of conflict. When fighting was active, stores were concentrated near the front. When operations declined, posts were reduced but not abandoned, because arms, ammunition and equipment still required custody, repair, issue and accounting.

The Armed Constabulary

The Armed Constabulary remained the main paid colonial force. In June 1870, the Commissioner reported that the force was being reorganised around a Depot of Instruction at Mount Cook Barracks, Wellington. The North Island was divided into districts, with one officer commanding the Armed Constabulary, Militia and Volunteers in each district. Officers commanding districts were required to pay the men and supervise messing, clothing and other internal arrangements.[8]

As at 15 June 1870, the Armed Constabulary was organised into six districts, Waikato, Taranaki, Hawke’s Bay, Turanganui, Whanganui-Patea and Bay of Plenty, supported by the Wellington Depot. Its detachments were spread across frontier stations, redoubts and regional centres, creating a wide and uneven demand for arms, ammunition, clothing, saddlery, transport stores and repair support.

New Zealand Armed Constabulary garrison at Ōpepe, near Taupō, early 1870s. Alexander Turnbull Library, Reference: 1/2-003116-F Artist: Samuel Carnell.

This reorganisation had direct stores implications. A smaller, more permanent and better-trained force still required reliable supply. Clothing, ammunition, rations, transport, forage, saddlery, barrack stores and arms maintenance were all essential to the Armed Constabulary’s effectiveness. The accounts show the scale of this commitment. The Armed Constabulary vote was £118,000, equivalent to approximately $21.0 million in 2026 NZD, while Contingent Defence was voted £82,000, equivalent to approximately $14.6 million in 2026 NZD.[9]

Militia and Volunteers

The Militia and Volunteers remained central to local defence. In November 1869, Lieutenant-Colonel Harington was directed to inspect Volunteer Corps and such Militia as were called out for training. His instructions required him to report on numerical strength, efficiency, parades, officer knowledge, target practice and the state of arms.[10]

This inspection requirement was closely linked to Defence Stores. Volunteer efficiency depended on having serviceable rifles, ammunition, accoutrements and stores. Poor arms maintenance, weak store accounting or uneven distribution would directly affect the ability of local corps to train and defend their districts.

Private of the New Zealand Militia in campaign dress. Harding, William James, 1826-1899 :Negatives of Wanganui district. Ref: 1/4-006785-G. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand. /records/22807152

The Volunteer movement was also geographically broad. By 31 May 1870, Volunteer Corps had been reorganised into cavalry, artillery, engineer, rifle, naval and cadet corps. Auckland Province had about 2,600 volunteers in 40 adult and 13 cadet corps, Wellington Province had 1,821 in 39 adult and eight cadet corps, Otago and Southland had 1,303, Canterbury 710, Hawke’s Bay 304, Nelson 295, Marlborough 235, Taranaki 166 and Westland 207. These figures explain why the Defence Stores problem was national, not simply centred on Auckland and Wellington.

Arms, ammunition and the armourer function

The technical demands on the Department were increasing. During the 1860s, New Zealand underwent a rapid sequence of firearms developments, from percussion muzzle-loaders to breech-loading conversions and Snider rifles. Armourers were no longer simply cleaning muskets. They were maintaining, repairing and inspecting a changing range of rifles, carbines, pistols, bayonets and other equipment.

One example from this period was the Hay-Snider Medium Rifle. In January 1869, 500 medium rifles were packed for shipment from Auckland to London for conversion to the Snider system. They departed Auckland aboard the Countess of Kintore in March 1869 and returned to Wellington aboard the Melita in December 1869. Their return fell within the period covered by this article and added another layer to the Department’s task of receiving, identifying, accounting for and issuing converted arms.

The Imperial withdrawal

The Defence Stores Department also had to operate in the shadow of the Imperial withdrawal. Since 1842, an Imperial storekeeping organisation had existed in New Zealand, with the Ordnance Department maintaining stores offices at Auckland and Wellington. In 1857 this became part of the British Military Store Department, with Fort Britomart in Auckland serving as a principal store location.

As Imperial regiments were withdrawn, this support system contracted. The Whanganui depot closed in 1867, followed by Tauranga, and the final Imperial regiment departed New Zealand in February 1869. The dismantling of Fort Britomart had already begun in January 1869, with Imperial guns, ammunition and stores from Fort Britomart and Albert Barracks being shipped to the United Kingdom on the SS Himalaya. The practical consequence was clear: the colonial Defence Stores under Gorton could no longer rely on the Imperial storekeeping system as a logistical backstop.

From improvised stores to a permanent logistics estate

The Defence Stores of 1869–70 operated in repurposed barracks, older military buildings and temporary accommodation. This was the beginning of a long pattern in New Zealand Army logistics: making do with inherited or improvised estate until purpose-built stores, magazines and workshops could be provided. The Mount Cook complex in Wellington and Albert Barracks in Auckland were part of this inherited system. Later developments at Buckle Street, Mount Eden and other sites would gradually turn the colonial store system into a more deliberate logistics estate.

In this respect, 1869–70 was more than an accounting year. It was the starting point for a long institutional journey from scattered wartime holdings to a permanent Defence Stores organisation, and eventually to the ordnance and logistics systems of the twentieth century.

Why 1869–70 matters

The period July 1869 to June 1870 matters because it captures the moment when New Zealand began to take full practical responsibility for its own military material. The Imperial backstop was disappearing, active operations continued, and the colony had to account for the arms, ammunition and stores it had purchased during years of conflict.

The Defence Stores Department was small but central to this transition. Gorton and his staff imposed inspection, accounting and repair disciplines on a scattered system. Auckland, Wellington, Whanganui and Patea became the visible nodes of a developing national storekeeping network. Armourers and arms cleaners maintained the weapons on which local defence depended. Storekeepers and clerks gave the Government visibility of what it owned, where it was held and how it was used.

In financial terms, the Department’s direct expenditure of £2,953 8s 7d, or about $524,500 in 2026 NZD, appears modest. In institutional terms, it was foundational. It was the practical beginning of the Defence Stores system that would support New Zealand’s military forces through the 1870s and provide one of the roots of the later New Zealand Army Ordnance organisation.

Cost conversion note

The 2026 equivalents above use a working conversion of:

£1 in 1870 ≈ $177.59 in 2026 NZD

This is based on the Reserve Bank of New Zealand inflation calculator approach. The RBNZ notes that its calculator converts pre-decimal values by treating £1 as $2 after decimalisation, and that it uses long-run price data, mostly from Stats NZ, with pre-1914 figures treated as estimates rather than official CPI data. The RBNZ calculator was last updated on 19 May 2026.²⁴

The figures should therefore be read as approximate purchasing-power equivalents, not exact wage or budget comparisons.

Notes

[1] “Arrival of Colonel Gorton in Wellington,” Wanganui Herald, Volume III, Issue 589, 23 April 1869, https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/WH18690423.2.6.

[2] Appropriation Act 1869 (32 and 33 Victoriae 1869 No 76),  (New Zealand Parliamentary Counsel Office, 1869). https://www.nzlii.org/nz/legis/hist_act/aa186932a33v1869n76312/.

[3] “Arrival of the p.s. Sturt.,” Hawke’s Bay Herald, Volume 13, Issue 1103, 23 November 1869, https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/HBH18691123.2.3.9.

[4] Appropriation Act 1869 (32 and 33 Victoriae 1869 No 76).

[5] “Public Accounts of the General Government of New Zealand, for the Financial Year 1869-70, Commencing 1 July 1869 and ending 30 June 1870,” Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives 1871 Session I, B-01  (9 October 1871), https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/parliamentary/AJHR1871-I.2.1.3.1.

[6] “Public Accounts of the General Government of New Zealand, for the Financial Year 1869-70, Commencing 1 July 1869 and ending 30 June 1870.”

[7] “Public Accounts of the General Government of New Zealand, for the Financial Year 1869-70, Commencing 1 July 1869 and ending 30 June 1870.”; Nominal Roll of Officers in the Store Department – August 1870 – for printing, Archives New Zealand Item ID R24174657, Record No CD1870/2744, (Wellington: New Zealand Archives, 9 August, 1870); “D-42 Nominal roll of the civil establishemnt of New Zealand on the 1st July 1870,” Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives  ( 1870), https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/parliamentary/AJHR1870-I.2.2.4.47.

[8] “Papers and reports relating to the Armed Constabulary,” Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1870 Session I, D-07  (1870), https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/parliamentary/AJHR1870-I.2.2.4.8.

[9] Appropriation Act 1869 (32 and 33 Victoriae 1869 No 76).

[10] “Report by Colonel Harington on the Militia and Voluneteers,” Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1870 Session 1, D-08  (1870), https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/parliamentary/AJHR1870-I.2.2.4.9.

The Pātaka of Ngāti Tumatauenga: NZ Ordnance Corps Locations 1840 to 1996

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The New Zealand Army evolved out of the British troops deployed during the 19th-century New Zealand Wars into a unique iwi known as Ngāti Tumatauenga – ‘Tribe of the God of War’. While Ngāti Tumatauenga has an extensive and well-known Whakapapa,[1] less well known is the whakapapa of the New Zealand Army’s supply and warehousing services.

Leading up to 1996, the Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps (RNZAOC) was the New Zealand Army organisation with the responsibility in peace and war for the provision, storage and distribution of Arms, Ammunition, Rations and Military stores. As the army’s warehousing organisation, the RNZAOC adopted the Pātaka (The New Zealand Māori name for a storehouse) as an integral piece of its traditions and symbology. On 9 December 1996, the warehousing functions of the RNZAOC were assumed by the Royal New Zealand Army Logistic Regiment (RNZALR).

Unpacked on this page and on the attached Web Application “the Pātaka of Ngati Tumatauenga” the evolution of New Zealand’s Army’s Ordnance services is examined. From a single storekeeper in 1840, the organisation grew through the New Zealand Wars, the World Wars and the Cold War into an organisation with global reach providing support to New Zealand Forces in New Zealand and across the globe.

Scan the QR code to view the Web App:

Pataka (1)

Description of Ordnance Units

In general terms, Ordnance units can be described as:

  • Main/Base Depots– A battalion-sized group, commanded by a lieutenant colonel. Usually a significant stock holding unit, responsible for the distribution of stock to other ordnance installations.
  • Central Ordnance Depots/Supply Company– Company-sized units, commanded by a major. Depending on the role of the unit, the following subunits could be included in the organisation:
    • Provision, Control & Accounts
    • Stores sub-depot/platoon
      • Traffic Centre
      • Camp Equipment
      • Technical Stores
      • Expendables
      • Clothing
      • Returned Stores & Disposals
        • Textile Repair
        • Tailors
        • Boot Repair
      • Ammunition Sub-Depot/Platoon
      • Vehicles Sub-Depot/Platoon
      • Services Sub-Depot/Platoon
        • Bath and Shower
        • Laundry
      • Rations Sub-Depot/Platoon (after 1979)
      • Fresh Rations
      • Combat Rations
      • Butchers
      • Petroleum Platoon (after 1979)
      • Vehicle Depots –
    • Workshops Stores Sections – In 1962, RNZAOC Stores Sections carrying specialised spares, assemblies and workshops materials to suit the particular requirement of its parent RNZEME workshops were approved, and RNZEME Technical Stores personnel employed in these were transferred to the RNZAOC.[2] [3]
    • Workshops. Before 1947, Equipment repair workshops were part of the Ordnance organisation. Types of Workshop included:
      • Main Workshop
      • Field/Mobile Workshop
      • Light Aid Detachments

Unit naming conventions

The naming of Ordnance units within New Zealand was generally based upon the unit locations or function or unit.

Supply Depots were initially named based on the district they belonged to:

  • Upper North Island – Northern District Ordnance Depot
  • Lower North Island – Central Districts Ordnance Depot
  • South Island – Southern Districts Ordnance Depot

In 1968, a regionally based numbering system was adopted

  • 1 for Ngaruawahia
  • 2 for Linton
  • 3 for Burnham
  • 4 for Waiouru

Some exceptions were:

  • 1 Base Depot and 1st Base Supply Battalion, a single battalion-sized unit, the name was based on role, not location.
  • 1 Composite Ordnance Company, a unique company-sized group, the name was based on function, not location

When the Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps (RNZASC) became the Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport (RNZCT) in 1979, the supply functions were transferred to the RNZAOC, with the 1st number signifying the location, with the 2nd number being 4 for all Supply Platoons:

  • 14 Supply Platoon, Papakura
  • 24 Supply Platoon, Linton
  • 34 Supply Platoon, Burnham
  • 44 Supply Platoon, Waiouru
  • 54 Supply Platoon, Trentham

Not that command of these units was transferred to the RNZAOC on 16 October 1978, with the personnel transferred in 1979.

Exceptions were:

  • 21 Supply Company – Retained its name as a historical link to the unit’s long history in the RNZASC.
  • 47 Petroleum Platoon, originally 7 Petroleum Platoon RNZASC, when transferred to the RNZAOC, as it was based in Waiouru, it added the Waiouru unit designation ‘4’ and became 47 Petroleum Platoon RNZAOC

Unit locations New Zealand, 1907–1996

Alexandra

9 Magazines operated from 1943 to 1962.

Ardmore

20 Magazines operational from 1943

Auckland

There has been an Ordnance presence in Auckland since the 1840s, with the Colonial Storekeeper and Imperial forces. The Northern Districts Ordnance Depot was situated in Mount Eden in the early 1900s. In the 1940s, the centre for Ordnance Support for the Northern Districts moved to Ngaruawahia, with a Sub depot remaining at Narrow Neck to provide immediate support.

RNZAOC units that have been accommodated at Auckland have been:

Stores Depot

  • Defence Stores Department, District Stores – Albert Barracks 1961-1883
  • Defence Stores Department, District Stores – O’Rourke Street, 1883-1903
  • Defence Stores Department, District Stores – Goal Reserve, Mount Eden 1903 -1917
  • Northern District Ordnance Depot – Goal Reserve, Mount Eden 1917 -1929.[4]
  • Northern District Ordnance Depot, Narrow Neck, 1929 to? [5]
  • 1 Supply Company, from 1989, Papakura
  • 12 Supply Company
  • 12 Field Supply Company
  • 15 Combat Supplies Platoon, 1 Logistic Regiment
  • 52 Supply Platoon, 5 Force Support Company

Vehicle Depot

  • Northern Districts Vehicle Depot, Sylvia Park, 1948-1961
  • Northern Districts Ordnance Depot, Vehicle Sub Depot, Sylvia Park, 1961 – 1968
  • 1 Central Ordnance Depot (1 COD), Vehicle Sub Depot, Sylvia Park, 1968 to 1979
  • 1 Supply Company, Vehicle Sub Depot, Sylvia Park, 1979 to 1989

Ammunition Depot

  • Mount Eden Magazines – 1873-1929
  • Northern Districts Ammunition Depot, Ardmore – 1942 – Present

Other Units

  • Bulk Stores Mangere, the 1940s (Part of MOD Trentham)
  • DSS Fort Cautley.

Workshops

Located at the Torpedo Yard, North Head

  • Ordnance Workshop Devonport, 1925-1941
  • No 12 Ordnance Workshop, Devonport, 1941–1946

Workshop Stores Section

  • 1 Infantry Workshop, Stores Section, Papakura 1962–1986
  • 1 Field Workshop Store Section, Papakura
  • 1 Transport Company Workshop, Stores Section, Fort Cautley

Belmont

Operational from 1943

  • MOD Trentham, Ammunition Group, Ammunition Section

Burnham

Stores Depot

In 1921, a single Command Ordnance Depot was established to service all military units in the newly organised Southern Military Command. Before this, Ordnance stores had operated from Christchurch and Dunedin. The new Depot (later renamed the Third Central Ordnance Depot) was established in the buildings of the former Industrial School at Burnham. Re-structuring in 1979 brought a change of name to 3 Supply Company.[6] [7] [8]

  • Stores Depot titles 1921–1996
    • Area Ordnance Department Burnham, 1920 to 1939,
    • Southern Districts Ordnance Depot, 1939 to 1942,
    • No 3 Sub Depot, 1942 to 1948,
    • Southern Districts Ordnance Depot, 1948 to 1968,
    • 3 Central Ordnance Depot (3 COD), 1968 to 1979, [9]
    • 3 Supply Company, 1979 to 1993,
    • Burnham Supply Center,1993 to 1994,
    • 3 Field Supply Company, 1994 to 1996.

Vehicle Depot

  • Southern Districts Vehicle Depot, 1948-1961.

Ammunition Depot

  • Southern Districts Vehicle Ammunition 1954-1961.

Other Ordnance Units

  • Combat Supplies Platoon. 1979 to 19??,
  • Ready Reaction Force Ordnance Support Group (RRF OSG), 19?? To 1992, moved to Linton,
  • 32 Field Supply Company (Territorial Force Unit).

Ordnance Field Parks

  • 3 Infantry Brigade Group OFP Platoon, 21 October 1948 – 28 June 1955.
  • 1 (NZ) Division OFP, Tech Stores Platoon, 28 June 1955 -,

Workshops

  • No 14 Ordnance Workshop, until 1946.

Workshop Stores Section

  • Southern Districts Workshop, Stores Section,
  • 3 Field Workshop, Store Section.

Christchurch

Stores Depot

  • Canterbury and Nelson Military District Stores Depot, King Edwards Barracks, Christchurch, 1907 to 1921.

Workshop Stores Section

  • Southern Districts Workshop, Stores Section, Addington,
  • 3 Infantry Brigade Workshop, Stores Section, Addington,
  • 3 Transport Company Workshop, Stores Section, Addington.

Devonport

Ordnance Workshop – Located at the Torpedo Yard, North Head

  • Ordnance Workshop Devonport, 1925-1941
  • No 12 Ordnance Workshop, Devonport, 1941–1946

Dunedin

Stores Depot

  • Otago and Southland Military Districts Stores Depot, 1907 to 1921

Fairlie

Nine magazines Operational 1943.

Featherston

Featherston Camp was New Zealand’s largest training camp during the First World War, where around 60,000 young men trained for overseas service between 1916 – 1918. An Ordnance Detachment was maintained in Featherston until 1927 when it functions were transferred to Northern Districts Ordnance Depot, Ngaruawahia.[10]

Glen Tunnel

16 magazines Operational from 1943

Hamilton

Proof Office, Small Arms Ammunition Factory, 1943-1946

Kelms Road

55 Magazines Operational from 1943 to 1976

Linton Camp

RNZAOC units that have been accommodated at Linton have been;

Stores Depot

  • No 2 Ordnance Depot, 1 October 1946  to 1948,
  • Central Districts Ordnance Depot,  1948 to 1968,
  • 2 Central Ordnance Depot (2 COD), 1968 to 16 Oct 1978,[11]
  • 2 Supply Company,  16 October 1978 to 1985,
    • Static Depot
      • Tech Stores Section
    • Field Force
      • 22 Ordnance Field Park
        • General Stores
        • Bath Section
  • 5 Composite Supply Company, 1985 to 1990.
  • 21 Field Supply Company 1990 to 1996

Vehicle Depot

  • Central Districts Vehicle Depot, 1957-1961

Ammunition Depot

Ordnance Field Parks

  • 2nd Infantry Brigade Ordnance Field Park Platoon 1948-48
  • 22 Ordnance Field Park

Workshop Stores Section

  • 1 General Troops Workshop, Stores Section
  • Linton Area Workshop, Stores Section
  • 5 Engineer Workshop, Store Section

Other Ordnance Units

  • 24 Supply Platoon
  • 23 Combat Supplies Platoon
  • 47 Petroleum Platoon 1984 to 1996
  • Ready Reaction Force Ordnance Support Group (RRF OSG), from Burnham in 1992 absorbed into 21 Field Supply Company. [12]

Lower Hutt

Ordnance Field Parks

  • 1 (NZ) Division OFP, Tech Stores Platoon, 28 June 1955 –

Mangaroa

First used as a tented camp during the First World War and in the Second World War Mangaroa was the site of an RNZAF Stores Depot from 1943. The depot with a storage capacity of 25,000 sq ft in 8 ‘Adams-type Buildings was handed over to the NZ Army by 1949.[13] The units that have been accommodated at Mangaroa have been:

Supply Depot

  • Main Ordnance Depot,1949–1968,
  • 1 Base Ordnance Depot, 1968–1979,
  • 1st Base Supply Battalion,
    • ACE(Artillery and Camp Equipment) Group
    • 5 Composite Supply Company, 1978 – Dec 1979

Ordnance Field Parks

  • 2nd Infantry Brigade Ordnance Field Park Platoon, 1950–1963,
  • 1 Infantry Brigade Group, OFP, 1963–1968,
  • 1st Composite Ordnance Company (1 Comp Ord Coy), 1964–1977,
    1 Comp Ord Coy was the Ordnance Bulk Holding unit for the field force units supporting the Combat Brigade Group and the Logistic Support Group, and held 60–90 days’ war reserve stock. 1 Comp Ord Coy was made up of the following subunits: [14]

    • Coy HQ
    • 1 Platoon, General Stores
    • 2 Platoon, Technical Stores
    • 3 Platoon, Vehicles
    • 4 Platoon, Ammo (located at Makomako)
    • 5 Platoon, Laundry
    • 6 Platoon, Bath

Mako Mako

39 magazines operational from 1943

  • MOD Trentham, Ammunition Group, Ammunition Section
  • 2 COD Ammunition Section

Mount Eden

Defence Stores/Ordnance Depot, 1871-1927

  • Defence Stores Department Powder Magazines 1871
  • Defence Stores Department, District Stores – Goal Reserve, Mount Eden 1903 -1917
  • Northern District Ordnance Depot – Goal Reserve, Mount Eden 1917 -1929.[4]

Proof Office, Small Arms Ammunition Factory, 1898-1967

Mount Somers

10 Magazines operational from 1943, closed 1969

Ngaruawahia

Ngaruawahia also was known as Hopu Hopu was established in 1927, [15] and allowed the closure of Featherston Ordnance Depot and the Auckland Ordnance Depot and was intended to service the northern regions. During construction, Ngaruawahia was described by the Auckland Star as “Probably the greatest Ordnance Depot”[16] Ngaruawahia closed down in 1989, and its Ordnance functions moved to Papakura and Mount Wellington.
RNZAOC units that have been accommodated at Ngaruawahia have been:

Stores Depot

  • Area Ngaruawahia Ordnance Department 1927 to 1940,
  • Northern District Ordnance Depot, 1940 to 1942,
  • No 1 Ordnance Sub Depot, 1942 to 1948, In addition to the main stores at Ngaruawahia Camp, No 1 Ordnance Sub Depot also maintained Sub-Depots at the following locations:
    • Bulk Store at Federal Street, Auckland
    • Clothing and Boot Store at Mills Lane, Auckland
    • Clothing Store at Glyde Rink, Kyber Pass/Park Rd, Auckland
    • The Ray Boot Store, Frankton
    • Area 4 Ordnance store, Hamilton.
    • Pukekohe Show Grounds Buildings
  • Northern District Ordnance Depot, 1948 to 1968,
  • 1 Central Ordnance Depot (1 COD), 1968 to 1979,
  • 1 Supply Company, 1979 to 1989,
  • 1 Field Supply Company, 1984, from 1989, Papakura.  [17]

Ammunition Depot

25 Storehouses

  • Thirteen Constructed 1927-29
  • Twelve Constructed 1942-45

Ordnance Field Parks

  • 1st Infantry Brigade Ordnance Field Park Platoon, 1948 to 1955
  • 1 Infantry Brigade Group, Ordnance Field Park(OFP), 1968 to 1979, support to Combat Brigade Group

Workshop Stores Section

  • 1 Infantry Brigade Group LAD, Stores Section

Other Ordnance Units

  • Northern Districts Ammunition Depot, Kelms Road

 Palmerston North

  • Palmerston North Detachment, NZAOC, 1914 to 1921.[18] [19] [20]
  • Depot Closed and stocks moved to Trentham.
  • Ordnance Store, 327 Main Street Circa 1917-1921.[21]
  • No 2 Ordnance Sub Depot, Palmerston North showgrounds, 1942 to 1946 when depot moved to Linton.

Trentham

Stores Depot

  • Main Ordnance Depot (MOD), 1920 to 1968
  • Base Ordnance Depot (BOD), 1968 to 1979
  • 1st Base Supply Battalion (1BSB), 1979 to 1993
  • 5 Logistic Regiment (5LR), 1993 to 8 December 1996 when Transferred to the RNZALR.

Ordnance School

  • RNZAOC School, 1958 to 1994
  • Supply/Quartermaster Wing and Ammunition Wing, Trade Training School 1994 to 1996. [21]

Workshops

  • Main Ordnance Workshop, 1917 to 1946.[22]

Workshop Stores Section

  • 1 Base Workshop, Stores Section

Ordnance Field Parks

  • 4(NZ) Division Ordnance Field Park(OFP), 1950–1963

Vehicle Depot

  • Central Districts Vehicle Depot, 1948 – 1957

Ammunition Units

  • HQ Ammunition Group, sections at Belmont, Makomako, Kuku Valley, Waiouru
  • Ammunition Proof and Experimental Centre, Kuku Valley
  • Central Military District Ammunition Repair Depot, Kuku Valley

Waiouru

Ordnance Sub Depots were established at Waiouru in 1940, which eventually grew into a stand-alone Supply Company.[23]

RNZAOC units that have supported Waiouru have been;

Stores Depot

  • Main Ordnance Depot, Waiouru Sub-Depot, 1940–1946, Initially managed as a Sub-Depot of the Main Ordnance Depot in Trentham, Ordnance units in Waiouru consisted of:
    • Artillery Sub Depot
    • Bulk Stores Depot
    • Ammunition Section
  • Central Districts Ordnance Depot, Waiouru Sub Depot (1946–1976).[24] In 1946 Waiouru became a Sub-Depot of the Central Districts Ordnance Depot in Linton, consisting of:
    • Ammo Group
    • Vehicle Group
    • Camp Equipment Group.
  • 4 Central Ordnance Deport, (1976–1979) On 1 April 1976 became a stand-alone Depot in its own right. [25]
  • 4 Supply Company, (1979–1989)
    when the RNZASC was disbanded in 1979 and its supply functions transferred to the RNZAOC, 4 Supply gained the following RNZASC units:[26]

    • HQ 21 Supply Company,(TF element)(1979–1984)
      21 Supply Company was retained as a Territorial unit for training and exercise purposes and was capable of providing a Supply Company Headquarter capable of commanding up to five subunits.
    • 47 Petroleum Platoon (1979–1984)
    • 44 Supply Platoon
  • Central Q, (1989–1993)
  • 4 Field Supply Company, (1993–1994)
  • Distribution Company, 4 Logistic Regiment, (1994–1996)

Workshop Stores Section

  • Waiouru Workshop, Stores Section
  • 4 ATG Workshop, Stores Section
  • 1 Armoured Workshop, Store Section
  • QAMR Workshop, Store Section

Wellington

The Board of Ordnance originally had a warehouse in Manners Street, but after the 1850 earthquake severely damaged this building, 13 acres of Mount Cook was granted to the Board of Ordnance, starting a long Ordnance association with the Wellington area.

Stores Depot

  • Defence Stores Department, Lower Mount Cook Barracks, 1869 – 1917
  • Central Districts Ordnance Depot, Mount Cook, 1917 to 1920.[27]

 Workshops

  • Armament Workshop, Alexandra Military Depot.[29]

Ammunition Storage

  • Mount Cook, Powder Magazine,  1847 – 1879
  • Kaiwharrawharra Powder Magazines, 1879-1920
  • NZAOC Ammunition Section, Fort Ballance Magazine Area, 1920 -1943

Ammunition Inspection and Repair

  • New Zealand Ordnance Corps Section, RNZA, Fort Ballance, Wellington, 1915 to 1917.[28]

Unit locations overseas, 1914–1920

Few records trace with any accuracy New Zealand Ordnance units that served overseas in the First World War. Although the NZAOC was not officially created until 1917.[30] The New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps was constituted as part of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force (NZEF) in 1914 for overseas service only and in 1919 its members demobilised, returned to their parent units or mustered into the New Zealand Army Ordnance Department (Officers) or New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps (other Ranks) on their return to New Zealand.

Egypt

  • Ordnance Depot, Zeitoun Camp, 1914-16
  • Ordnance Depot Alexandra, 1915-16
    • 12 Rue de la, Porte Rosette, Alexandria. [31]
    • New Zealand Ordnance Store, Shed 43, Alexandria Docks.[32]
  • NZ Ordnance Section, NZEF Headquarters in Egypt
    • Qasr El Nil Barracks, Cairo.[33]

Fiji

  • NZAOC Detachment, Fiji Expeditionary Force, Suva – February- April 1920

Germany

  • Ordnance Depot, Mulheim, Cologne

 Greece

  • Ordnance Depot, Sapri Camp, Lemnos Island, October – December 1915

Samoa

  • 1 Base Depot

 Turkey

  • Ordnance Depot, ANZAC Cove, Gallipoli, April – Dec 1915

 United Kingdom

  • New Zealand Ordnance Base Depot Farringdon Street, London
  • Ordnance Depot, Cosford Camp

Unit locations overseas, 1939–1946

Egypt

Headquarters

  • Office of the DDOS 2NZEF, 22 Aig 1941 to Sept 1942
  • Office of the ADOS 2NZEF, Sept 1942 to 1 Sept 1945

Base Units

Supply

  • New Zealand Base Ordnance Depot, Maadi, 1940 to 19 Feb 1944
  • No 1 New Zealand Base Ordnance Depot,  16 Feb 1944 to 1946

Workshops (until Sept 1942 when transferred to NZEME)

  • NZ Base Ordnance Workshop

Laundry

  • NZ Base Laundry, 30 Sept 1942 – 30 Sept 1943

Training

  • Engineer and Ordnance Training Depot, Maadi Camp

Field Units

Supply

  • 2 NZ Divisional Ordnance Field Park, 28 Jul 1941 – 29 Dec 1945
  • NZ Divisional Mobile Bath Unit, 6 Sept 1941  –  30 Sept 1942
  • NZ Divisional Mobile Laundry & Decontamination Unit, 22 Sept 1941 – 27 Mar 1942
  • NZ Divisional Mobile Laundry, 27 Mar 1942 – 30 Sept 1942
  • NZ Salvage Unit, 16 Aug 1941 – 20 Oct 1942

Workshops (until Sept 1942 when transferred to NZEME)

  • 2 NZ Divisional Ordnance Workshops
  • 1 NZ Field Workshop
  • 2 NZ Field Workshop
  • 3 NZ Field Workshop
  • 14 NZ Anti-Aircraft Workshop Section
  • 9 NZ Light Aid Detachment (attached 4 Fd Regt)
  • 10 NZ LAD (attached 5 Fd Pk Coy)
  • 11 NZ LAD (attached HQ 4 NZ Inf Bde)
  • 12 NZ LAD (attached 27 NZ (MG) Bn) Disbanded 15 Oct 1942
  • 13 NZ LAD (attached 2 NZ Div Cav)
  • 14 NZ LAD (attached 2 NZ Div Sigs)
  • 15 NZ LAD (attached 7 NZ A Tk Regt)
  • 16 NZ LAD (attached HQ 5 Fd Regt)
  • 17 NZ LAD (attached HQ 5 NZ Inf Bde)
  • 18 NZ LAD (attached 6 NZ Fd Regt)
  • 19 NZ LAD (attached HQ 6 NZ Inf Bde)

Greece

  • 2 Independent (NZ) Brigade Group Workshop.[34]
  • 5 Independent (NZ) Brigade Group Workshop. [35]
  • Light Aid Detachments x 11
  • 1 Ordnance Field Park (British OFP attached to NZ Division).[36]

Italy

Headquarters

  • Office of the ADOS 2NZEF, 6 Jun 1945 to 1 Sept 1945

Base units

  • No 2 New Zealand Base Ordnance Depot, Bari, 16 Feb 1944 – 2 Feb 1946.[37]
    •  Advanced Section of Base Depot, Senegallia, Sept 44 – Feb 46.
  • NZ Advanced Ordnance Depot,   1943- 14 Feb 1944 (Absorbed into OFP)

Field units

  • NZ Division Ordnance Field Park OFP, – 29 Dec 1945
  • NZ Advanced Ordnance Depot, 27 Oct 1945- 1 Feb 1946
  • NZ Mobile Laundry Unit, 1 Oct 1943 – 16 Feb 1944
  • NZ Mobile Bath Unit, 18 Oct 1943 – 16 Feb 1944
  • MZ Mobile Laundry and Bath Unit, 16 Feb 1944 – 8 Dec 1945
  • NZ Vehicle and Stores Reception Depot, 27 Oct 1944 – 1 Feb 1946
    • Vehicle Depot, Assisi, 27 Oct 1945 – Jan 1946.[38]
    • Stores Depot, Perugia, 27 Oct 1945 – Feb 1946.[39]

Fiji

  • Divisional Ordnance Headquarters
  • Base Ordnance Depot
  • Division Ordnance Workshop
  • ‘A’ Workshop Section
  • ‘B Workshop Section
  • 20th Light Aid Detachment
  • 36th Light Aid Detachment
  • 37th Light Aid Detachment

New Caledonia

  • Base Ordnance Depot
  • Division Ordnance Workshop
  • 20th Light Aid Detachment
  • 36th Light Aid Detachment
  • 37th Light Aid Detachment
  • 42 Light Aid Detachment
  • 64 Light Aid Detachment
  • 65 Light Aid Detachment
  • 67 Light Aid Detachment

Solomon Islands

  • Advanced Ordnance Depot, Guadalcanal. Officer Commanding and Chief Ordnance Officer, Captain Noel McCarthy.

Tonga

  • 16 Brigade Group Ordnance Field Park
  • 16 Brigade Group Workshop

Unit locations overseas, 1945–1996

Japan

  • Base Ordnance Depot, Kure (RAOC unit, NZAOC personnel attached)
  • 4 New Zealand Base Ordnance Depot, November 1945.
  • 4 New Zealand Advanced Ordnance Depot, November 1946.
  • 4 New Zealand Ordnance Field Park – August 1947 to July 1948 when closed.

ADO Gate

Korea

No Standalone units but individual RNZAOC personnel served in 4 Ordnance Composite Depot (4 OCD) RAOC.

Malaya

No standalone RNZAOC units, but individual RNZAOC personnel may have served in the following British and Commonwealth Ordnance units:

  • 3 Base Ordnance Depot, RAOC, Singapore
  • 28 Commonwealth Brigade Ordnance Field Park, Terendak, Malaysia.

Singapore

Stores Depot

  • 5 Advanced Ordnance Depot, 1970–1971
    5 Advanced Ordnance Depot (5 AOD) was a short-lived Bi-National Ordnance Depot operated by the RAAOC and RNZAOC in Singapore, 1970 to 1971.
  • ANZUK Ordnance Depot, 1971–1974
    ANZUK Ordnance Depot was the Tri-National Ordnance Depot supporting the short-lived ANZUK Force. Staffed by service personnel from the RAOC, RAAOC and RNZAOC with locally Employed Civilians (LEC) performing the basic clerical, warehousing and driving tasks. It was part of the ANZUK Support Group supporting ANZUK Force in Singapore between 1971 to 1974. ANZUK Ordnance Depot was formed from the Australian/NZ 5 AOD and UK 3BOD and consisted of:

    • Stores Sub Depot
    • Vehicle Sub Depot
    • Ammunition Sub Depot
    • Barrack Services Unit
    • Forward Ordnance Depot(FOD)
  • New Zealand Advanced Ordnance Depot, 1974–1989
    From 1974 to 1989 the RNZAOC maintained the New Zealand Advanced Ordnance Depot(NZAOD) in Singapore as part of New Zealand Force South East Asia (NZFORSEA).

Workshops Stores Section

  • New Zealand Workshops, RNZAOC Stores Section
  • 1RNZIR, Light Aid Detachment Stores Section

Somalia

The RNZAOC (with RNZCT, RNZEME, RNZSig, RNZMC specialist attachments) contributed to the New Zealand Governments commitment to the International and United Nations Operation in Somalia(UNOSOM) efforts in Somalia with:

  • Supply Detachment, Dec 1992 to June 1993
  • Supply Platoon x 2 rotations, July 1993 to July 1994 (reinforced with RNZIR Infantry Section)
  • RNZAOC officers to UNOSOM headquarters, 1992 to 1995.[40]

South Vietnam

During New Zealand’s commitment to the war in South Vietnam (29 June 1964 – 21 December 1972). The Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps did not contribute a standalone unit but provided individuals to serve in New Zealand Headquarters units, Composite Logistic units or as part of Australian Ordnance Units including:

  • Headquarters Vietnam Force (HQ V Force)
  • 1st Australian Task Force (1 ATF)
  • 1st Australian Logistic Support Group (1 ALSG)
  • 161 Battery Attachments (161 Bty Attached)
  • New Zealand Rifle Companies
  • 161st (Independent) Reconnaissance Flight

Copyright © Robert McKie 2018

Notes

[1] Whakapapa is a taxonomic framework that links all animate and inanimate, known and unknown phenomena in the terrestrial and spiritual worlds. Whakapapa, therefore, binds all things. It maps relationships so that mythology, legend, history, knowledge, Tikanga (custom), philosophies and spiritualities are organised, preserved and transmitted from one generation to the next. “Rāwiri Taonui, ‘Whakapapa – Genealogy – What Is Whakapapa?’, Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, Http://Www.Teara.Govt.Nz/En/Whakapapa-Genealogy/Page-1 (Accessed 3 June 2019).”

[2] Major J.S Bolton, A History of the Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps (Trentham: RNZAOC, 1992).

[3] A.J. Polaschek and Medals Research Christchurch, The Complete New Zealand Distinguished Conduct Medal: Being an Account of the New Zealand Recipients of the Distinguished Conduct Medal from the Earliest Times of the South African War to the Present Time, Together with Brief Biographical Notes and Details of Their Entitlement to Other Medals, Orders and Decorations (Medals Research Christchurch, 1983).

[4] “Dismantling of Buildings at Mt Eden and Reassembling at Narrow Neck,” New Zealand Herald, vol. LXVI, p. 5, 2 February 1929.

[5] “The Narrow Neck Camp,” New Zealand Herald, vol. LVIII, no. 17815, p. 6, 23 June 1921.

[6] John J. Storey and J. Halket Millar, March Past: A Review of the First Fifty Years of Burnham Camp (Christchurch, N.Z.: Pegasus Press, 1973, 1974 printing, 1973), Non-fiction.

[7] “Camp at Burnham,” Star, no. 16298, p. 8, 13 December 1920.

[8] “RNZAOC Triennial Conference,” in Handbook – RNZAOC Triennial Conference, Wellington,”  (1981).

[9][9] “NZ P106 Dos Procedure Instructions, Part 1 Static Support Force. Annex F to Chapter 1, Rnzaoc Director of Ordnance Services,”  (1978).

[10] ” Featherston Military Training Camp and the First World War, 1915–27,”  https://nzhistory.govt.nz/war/featherston-camp.

[11] “NZ P106 Dos Procedure Instructions, Part 1 Static Support Force. Annex F to Chapter 1, Rnzaoc Director of Ordnance Services.”

[12] “Stockholding for Operationally Deployable Stockholding Units,” NZ Army General Staff, Wellington  (1993.).

[13] L Clifton, Aerodrome Services, ed. Aerodrome Services Branch of the Public Works Department War History (Wellington1947).

[14] “1 Comp Ord Coy,” Pataka Magazine, February 1979.

[15] “D-01 Public Works Statement by the Hon. J. G. Coates, Minister of Public Works,” Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1 January,”  (1925).

[16] “Great Military Camp,” The Auckland Star, vol. LVI, no. 83, p. 5, 8 April 1925.

[17] “1st Field Supply Company Standing Operating Procedures, 1st Supply Company Training Wing, Dec “,  (1984).

[18] W.H. Cunningham and C.A.L. Treadwell, Wellington Regiment: N. Z. E. F 1914-1918 (Naval & Military Press, 2003).

[19] “Defence Re-Organisation,” Manawatu Times, vol. XLII, no. 1808, p. 5, 5 May  1921.

[20] “H-19 Defence Forces of New Zealand, Report of the General Officer Commanding the Forces from 25th June 1914 to 26th June, 1915.,” “, Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives  (1915).

[21] “NZ Army Ordnance Stores, ,”  https://manawatuheritage.pncc.govt.nz/item/c7681d2d-c440-4d58-81ad-227fc31efebf.

[22] “Pataka Magazine. RNZAOC, P. 52,,”  (1994).

[23] “Waiouru Camp  “, Ellesmere Guardian, vol. LXI, no. 90, p. 2, 12 November 1940

[24] Bolton, A History of the Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps.

[25] Ibid.

[26] Ibid.

[27] “Ordnance Stores,” Evening Post, vol. c, no. 95, p. 8, 19 October 1920.

[28] “H-19 Defence Forces of New Zealand, Report of the General Officer Commanding the Forces from 25th June 1914 to 26th June 1915.”

“, Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives  (1915).

[29] “H-19 Defence Forces of New Zealand, Report of the General Officer Commanding the Forces, from 1st June 1916 to 31st May 1917,” Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives  (1917).

[30] “Colonel Rhodes,” Dominion, vol. 9, no. 2718, p. 9, 13 March 1916. .

[31] Ibid.

[32] Ibid.

[33] Glyn Harper, Johnny Enzed: The New Zealand Soldier in the First World War 1914-1918, First World War Centenary History (Titirangi, Auckland, New Zealand: Exisle Publishing, 2015

[Limited Leather Bound Edition], 2015), Bibliographies, Non-fiction.

[34] A.H. Fernyhough, History of the Royal Army Ordnance Corps 1920-1945 (Royal Army Ordnance Corps, 1958).

[35] Ibid.

[36] Ibid.

[37] New Zealand War Histories – Italy Volume Ii : From Cassino to Trieste,  (Victoria University of Wellington, 1967).

[38] Ibid.

[39] Ibid.

[40] “Somalia: 1992 – 1995,” NZ Army,” http://www.army.mil.nz/about-us/what-we-do/deployments/previous-deployments/somalia/default.htm.

The Historiography of the New Zealand Wars and the Military Store Department

1 Comment

The study of the New Zealand Wars has created an extensive Historiography focused on the political and warfighting aspects of the campaign, providing much information on the causes, effects, commanders, battles and units that participated in the New Zealand Wars. If the narrative has chosen to include the logistic services, the general Historiography has been biased towards the larger of the Logistic Services- the Commissariat – while neglecting to cover the contribution of the Military Store Department. This essay will examine the Historiography of the New Zealand Wars as it relates to the logistics and the activities of the Military Store Department from 1857 to 1870.

The Military Store Department was the department of the British Army responsible for providing weapons, munitions and military equipment to the British Army and Colonial Forces from 1857 to 1870.[1] The origins of the Military Store Department lay with the Board of Ordnance and was under the control of the Master General of the Ordnance from 1597. The Crimean War (16 October 1853 – 30 March 1856) had seen the British Army suffer many privations due to the failure of its Logistic Services, including the Ordnance Board, which saw their functions placed under the supervision of the War Office while the reformation of the British Army’s administrative system took place.[2] By 1857 the reforms had resulted in the formation of specialised departments to manage the British Army’s logistics:[3]

  • The Commissariat –  land transport services, providing food and fuel for soldiers and forage for animals.
  • The Purveyors Department –  Setting up, equipping and maintaining hospitals.
  • The Military Store Department – Weapons, Munitions and Military equipment not managed by the other departments.[4]

The Ordnance Board had existed in New Zealand since the 1840s. In 1857, its staff and infrastructure were amalgamated into the Military Store Department, supporting the Imperial Forces for the duration of the conflict.[5]

Much of the Historiography about the New Zealand War Logistics is related to General Cameron and his staff and how they had learnt the lessons of the Crimean War and were determined not to make the same mistakes. Matthew Wright describes Cameron as a veteran General “with a reputation for, discipline, ‘reticent and auster”‘ who understood Logistics.[6]  James Belich agrees with Wright on Cameron’s Logistical appreciation and expands on the logistical challenges that the Imperial Forces faced, such as the length of the Supply Chain and the reliance on imports from England and Australia.[7] Wright and Belich do not delve deeply into the organisational structures of the Imperial Forces, so the omission of the Military Store Department is to be expected.

The Military Store Department is noticeably missing from Tim Ryan and Bill Parham’s book on the New Zealand Wars, which furnishes an entire chapter on the British Regiments and Corps involved in the New Zealand Wars from 1845 to 1870. Despite detailing all the Imperial Units, including the Medical and commissariat units, Ryan and Parham neglect to mention the Military Store Department.[8] Richard Taylor’s 2004 thesis, ‘British Logistics in the New Zealand Wars, 1845-66’ provides a comprehensive review of British Logistics during the New Zealand Wars. Taylor briefly mentions the activities of the Board of Ordnance in the 1840s and 50s but provides no mention of their successor, the Military Store Department. Focused on the Medical, Commissariat, and Transports Corps, Taylor’s work offers little understanding of the mechanisms responsible for the supply of arms, munitions and other military stores.

Adam Davis, in his 2004 thesis, ‘The Imperial Garrison in New Zealand, 1840-1870 with Particular Reference to Auckland’, examines the social interactions between the Imperial Forces and New Zealand Colonial Society. Drawing on many primary sources such as newspapers, Davis explores the activities of the Board of Ordnance before 1857 and then the Military Store Department post-1857. Davis states how the Military Store Department existed in 1861 and includes it in a list detailing the distribution of Imperial units in 1864.[9]  Davis also mentions several times in his text that the Military Store Department was also the primary occupant of Britomart Barracks.

The lack of the Military Store Department in the historiography of the New Zealand Wars is not surprising. The Regimental history of the Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport (RNZCT) records the history of the Commissariat and Transports Corps.[10] The Successors to the Military Store Department, the Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps(RNZAOC), discusses the New Zealand Wars in their regimental history but makes no mention of the Military Store Department.[11] The History of the British Royal Army Ordnance  Corps (RAOC) briefly mentions the New Zealand Wars but describes how department officers were attached to flying columns and clerks, artificers and labourers were provided to accompany the force.[12] This description of responsibilities is supported by news articles relating to the Military Store Department found on the Papers Past Website. A 2018 article in the New Zealand Military History Society of New Zealand Journal, the Volunteers: ‘Ordnance Services in Colonial New Zealand 1840 to 1871’ weaves together a variety of primary and secondary sources outlaying the history of the Military Store Department in New Zealand and identifies many of its essential personnel and locations that it occupied.[13]

Surprisingly, the Military Store Department does not have a broader profile in the Historiography of the New Zealand Wars. Given its responsibility for providing and maintaining weapons, munitions and military equipment, it was a key enabler for maintaining the Imperial and Colonial Forces in the field. There are many examples in the media of the day of the high esteem in which the Military Store Department was held. At the Colonial level, Chapman’s New Zealand Almanac of 1860 lists the Military Store Department and its Staff as part of the Imperial Military Hierarchy,[14] whereas similarly, the Royal Kalenders issued between 1860 and 1862 provide listings of the Military Store Department Officers. Hart’s Army list also provides a wealth of information on the officers of the Military Store Department. Hart’s Army list was produced annually and provided detailed information on each officer of the British Army, including the Military Stores Department. [16] The notes contained in the Army list also provide biographical details which add to the Historiography of the New Zealand Wars; for example, the Army List of 1869 shows the following:[17]

  • Mr Hamley served in New Zealand from 1846, including two Native Wars;
  • Mr Haldane served during the late war in New Zealand;
  • Mr Le Geyt served in the New Zealand War of 1863-66 and was present at the attack of the Orakau Pah, assault and capture of the Gate Pa, and action at Te Ranga;
  • Timbrell and James White served in the New Zealand War from 1864 to 1860.

The Historiography provided by these primary sources contrasts with the database held on the Soldiers of Empire Website.[18]  The Soldiers of Empire website contributes a digital element to the Historiography of the New Zealand Wars. With a database of Imperial troops who served in New Zealand and several interactive articles detailing different aspects of the conflict. Despite being a gazetted unit of the British Military,[19] the Military Store Department has not been included in the Soldiers of Empire database. While continuing the trend of not including the Military Store Department, the Soldiers of Empire Website includes in its articles many of the watercolours painted by Joseph Osbertus Hamley, who, in his duties as Head of the Military Store Department, took part in many of the Imperial Military Operations.[20] Moreover, Hamley was also the last Imperial officer to depart New Zealand in 1870.[21]

The absence of the Military Store Department from the wider Historiography is an enigma and can be attributed to its small size and the successful conduct of its duties with little or no fuss. Davis stated that in 1864 the department consisted of four staff and ten sergeants,[22] collaborated by the list of the Department collated by Mckie.[23]  Given its small numbers, the Military Store Department seldom operated independently outside of Auckland. The men of the department for administrative and tactical reasons were attached to the strength of the Commissariat while in the field and hence appeared in many records as part of the Commissariat, which has helped to keep the department out of the historiography. [24]  Despite the size of the department and the vagueness of its existence, the department’s work was well known and appeared regularly in the media of the time. An 1864 article in the New Zealand Spectator and Cook’s Strait Guardian describes in detail the department’s duties and organisation and the praise it had received from General Cameron for its contribution to the war.[25]

In conclusion, the Historiography of the New Zealand Wars is in a state of continual evolution. Although the narrative has generally focused on the causes, effects, commanders, battles and forces that participated in the New Zealand Wars, modern advances in archival management have opened access to many records that previously remained out of reach. Until recently, the Military Store Department was not part of the New Zealand Wars Historiography. For some accounts, this is acceptable as such details do not add to the narrative. However, any New Zealand War history discussing details of Imperial and colonial units and the logistics required only tells a portion of the record if they do not include the Military Store Department.  Despite a raft of primary sources providing positive information on the existence of the Military Store Department, the Department is a victim of its success and has become unknown. If it had made a few errors or failed to provide ammunition on time, the historiography might be different.

e study of the New Zealand Wars has created an extensive Historiography focused on the political and warfighting aspects of the campaign, providing much information on the causes, effects, commanders, battles and units that participated in the New Zealand Wars. If the narrative has chosen to include the logistic services, the general Historiography has been biased towards the larger of the Logistic Services- the Commissariat – while neglecting to cover the contribution of the Military Store Department. This essay will examine the Historiography of the New Zealand Wars as it relates to the logistics and the activities of the Military Store Department from 1857 to 1870.

The Military Store Department was the department of the British Army responsible for providing weapons, munitions and military equipment to the British Army and Colonial Forces from 1857 to 1870.[1] The origins of the Military Store Department lie with the Board of Ordnance, which under the Master General of the Ordnance existed between 1597 and 1855. The Crimean War (16 October 1853 – 30 March 1856) had seen the British Army suffer many privations due to the failure of its Logistic Services, including the Ordnance Board, which saw their functions placed under the supervision of the War Office while the reformation of the British Army’s administrative system took place.[2] By 1857 the reforms had resulted in the formation of specialised departments to manage the British Army’s logistics:[3]

  • The Commissariat, responsible for land transport services and the provision of food and fuel for soldiers and forage for animals;
  • The Purveyors Department, responsible for the setting up, equipping and the maintenance of hospitals and;
  • The Military Store Department, responsible for Weapons, Munitions and Military equipment not managed by the other departments.[4]

The Ordnance Board had existed in New Zealand since the 1840s, in 1857 its staff and infrastructure were amalgamated into the Military Store Department supporting the Imperial Forces for the duration of the conflict.[5]

Much of the Historiography about the New Zealand War Logistics is related to General Cameron and his staff and how they had learnt the lessons of the Crimean War and were determined not to make the same mistakes. Matthew Wright describes Cameron as a veteran General, “with a reputation for, discipline, ‘reticent and auster”’ who understood Logistics.[6]  James Belich agrees with Wright on Cameron’s Logistical appreciation and expands on the logistical challenges that the Imperial Forces faced, such as the length of the Supply Chain and the reliance on imports from England and Australia.[7] Wright and Belich do not delve deeply into the organisational structures of the Imperial Forces, so the omission of the Military Store Department is to be expected.

The Military Store Department is noticeably missing from Tim Ryan and Bill Parham’s book on the New Zealand Wars, which furnishes a full chapter on the British Regiments and Corps involved in the New Zealand Wars from 1845 to 1870. Despite detailing all the Imperial Units, including the Medical and Commissariate units, Ryan and Parham neglect to mention the Military Store Department.[8]  Richard Taylor’s 2004 thesis, ‘British Logistics in the New Zealand Wars, 1845-66’ provides a comprehensive review of British Logistics during the New Zealand Wars. Taylor does mention in brief, the activities of the Board of Ordnance in the 1840s and 50s, but provides no mention of their successor, the Military Store Department. Focused on the Medical, Commissariat, and Transports Corps, Taylor’s work provides little understanding of mechanisms responsible for the supply of arms, munitions and other military stores.

Adam Davis, in his 2004 thesis, ‘The Imperial Garrison in New Zealand, 1840-1870 with Particular Reference to Auckland’, examines the social interactions between the Imperial Forces and New Zealand Colonial Society. Drawing on many primary sources such as newspapers, Davis examines the activities of the Board of Ordnance before 1857 and then the Military Store Department post-1857. Davis states how the Military Store Department was existing in 1861 and includes it in a list detailing the distribution of Imperial units in 1864.[9]  Davis also mentions several times in his text that the Military Store Department was also the primary occupant of Britomart Barracks.

The lack of the Military Store Department in the historiography of the New Zealand Wars it not surprising. The Regimental history of the Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport (RNZCT) records the history of the Commissariat and Transports Corps.[10] The Successors to the Military Store Department, the Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps(RNZAOC), discusses the New Zealand Wars in their regimental history but makes no mention if the Military Store Department.[11] The History of the British Royal Army Ordnance  Corps (RAOC) makes no specific mention of the New Zealand Wars, but does describe how department officers were attached to flying columns and clerks, artificers and labourers were provided to accompany the force.[12] This description of responsibilities is supported by news articles relating to the Military Store Department found in the Papers Past Website. A 2018 article in the New Zealand Military History Society of New Zealand Journal, the Volunteers: ‘Ordnance Services in Colonial New Zealand 1840 to 1871’ weaves together a variety of primary and secondary sources outlaying the history of the Military Store Department in New Zealand and identifies many of its essential personnel and locations that it occupied.[13]

It is surprising that the Military Store Department does not have a broader profile in the Historiography of the New Zealand Wars. Given its responsibility for the provision and maintenance of weapons, munitions and military equipment, it was a key enabler for the maintenance of the Imperial and Colonial Forces in the field. There are many examples in the media of the day of the high esteem in which the Military Store Department was held. At the Colonial level, Chapman’s New Zealand Almanac of 1860 lists the Military Store Department and its Staff as part of the Imperial Military Hierarchy,[14] whereas similarly the Royal Kalanders issued between 1860 and 1862 provide listings of the Military Store Department Officers. Hart’s Army list also provides a wealth of information on the officers of the Military Store Department. Hart’s Army list was produced annually and provided detailed information on each officer of the British Army including the Military Stores Department. [16] The notes contained in the Army list also provide biographical details which add to the Historiography of the New Zeland Wars, for example, the Army List of 1869 shows the following:[17]

  • Mr Hamley served in New Zealand from 1846 including two Native Wars;
  • Mr Haldane served during the late war in New Zealand;
  • Mr Le Geyt served in the New Zealand War of 1863-66 and was present at the attack of the Orakau Pah, assault and capture of the Gate Pa, and action at Te Ranga;
  • T. Timbrell and James White served in the New Zealand War in 1864-06.

The Historiography provided by these primary sources contrasts with the database held on the Soldiers of Empire Website.[18]  The Soldiers of Empire website contributes a digital element to the Historiography of the New Zealand Wars. With a database of Imperial troops who served in New Zealand and several interactive articles detailing different aspects of the conflict. At this stage, despite being a gazetted unit of the British Military,[19] the Military Store Department has not been included on the Soldiers of Empire database. While continuing the trend of not including the Military Store Department, the Soldiers of Empire Website includes in its articles many of the watercolours painted by Joseph Osbertus Hamley who in his duties as Head of the Military Store Department took part in many of the Imperial Military Operations.[20] Moreover, Hamley was also be the last Imperial officer to depart New Zealand in 1870.[21]

The absence of the Military Store Department from much of the Historiography is an enigma, and can be attributed to its small size, and also the successful conduct of its duties with little or no fuss. Davis stated that in 1864 the department consisted of four staff and ten sergeants,[22] collaborated by the list of the Department collated by Mckie.[23]  Given its small numbers, the Military Store Department seldom operated independently outside of Auckland, and the men of the department for administrative and tactical reasons were often attached to the strength of the Commissariat while in the field and hence appeared in many records as part of the Commissariat,[24] which has helped to keep the department out of the historiography. Despite the size of the department and the vagueness of its existence in the historiography, in the 1860s the work of the department was well known and appeared regularly in the media of the time. An 1864 article in the New Zealand Spectator and Cook’s Strait Guardian describes in detail the duties and organisation of the department, and also the praise it had received from General Cameron for its contribution to the war.[25]

In conclusion, the Historiography of the New Zealand Wars is in a state of continual evolution and although the narrative has generally remained  focused on the causes, effects, commanders, battles and forces that participated in the New Zealand Wars, modern advances in archival management have opened up access to many records which have previously remained out of reach. Until recently the Military Store Department was not part of the New Zealand Wars Historiography, for some accounts, this is acceptable as such details do not add to the narrative. However, any New Zealand War history discussing details of Imperial and colonial units and the logistics required is only telling a portion of the history if they do not include the Military Store Department.  Despite there being a raft of primary sources providing positive information on the existence of the Military Store Department, the Department is a victim of its success and as such has become unknown. If it had made a few errors or failed to provide ammunition on time the historiography might be different.

Copyright © Robert McKie 2019

Notes:

[1] Arthur Forbes, A History of the Army Ordnance Services (London: The Medici society, ltd., 1929), 149.

[2] Many of the Officers and men who had served in the Crimean war also served in the New Zealand Wars, applying many of the tactical and Logistical lessons learnt to good effect.

[3] J.M. War office Bannatyne, Royal Warrants, Circular, General Orders and Memoranda, Issued by the War Office and Horse Guards, Aug. 1856- July 1864 (1864), 302-10.

[4] Brigadier A H Fernyhough, A Short History of the Royal Army Ordnance Corps (First Edition) (RAOC Trust 1965), 14-15.

[5] Robert McKie, “Ordnance Services in Colonial New Zealand 1840-1871,” The Volunteers: New Zealand Military Historical Society 44, no. 2 (2018): 42. , H.G Hart, “Annual Army List as at December 1857,”  https://digital.nls.uk/british-military-lists/archive/102696001.

[6] Matthew Wright, Two Peoples, One Land: The New Zealand Wars (Reed, 2006), Bibliographies, Non-fiction, 113.

[7]James Belich, The New Zealand Wars and the Victorian Interpretation of Racial Conflict, This edition 2015 ed. (Auckland University Press, 2015), Bibliographies, Non-fiction, 127.

[8] Tim Ryan and W. T. Parham, The Colonial New Zealand Wars, Rev. ed. (Grantham House, 2002), Bibliographies, Non-fiction, 159-64.

[9] Adam Davis, “The Imperial Garrison in New Zealand, 1840-1870 with Particular Reference to Auckland” (University of Bedfordshire, 2004), 79.

[10] Julia Millen, Salute to Service: A History of the Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport and Its Predecessors, 1860-1996 (Wellington: Victoria University Press, 1997, 1997), Bibliographies, Non-fiction, 15-30.

[11] Major J.S Bolton, A History of the Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps (Trentham: RNZAOC, 1992), 44-49.

[12] Fernyhough, A Short History of the Royal Army Ordnance Corps (First Edition), 15.

[13] McKie, “Ordnance Services in Colonial New Zealand 1840-1871,” 36 – 53.

[14] Chapman’s New Zealand Almanac – New Zealand Official Directory,  (1860).

[15] The Royal Kalendar, and Court and City Register for England, Scotland, Ireland, and the Colonies,  (1860)., The Royal Kalendar, and Court and City Register for England, Scotland, Ireland, and the Colonies,  (1861)., The Royal Kalendar, and Court and City Register for England, Scotland, Ireland, and the Colonies,  (1862).

[16] Colonel H.G Hart, “Hart’s Army Lists – 1839-1915,” National Library of Scotland, https://digital.nls.uk/british-military-lists/archive/100739612.

[17] H.G Hart, “Annual Army List as of December 1868,”  https://digital.nls.uk/british-military-lists/archive/102696001.

[18] Victoria University of Wellington, “Soldiers of Empire,”  http://www.soldiersofempire.nz/database.html.

[19] “Commissions Granted to Officers Serving in the Military Store Department,” London Gazette No 22567, 19 November 1861.

[20] Una Platts, Nineteenth Century New Zealand Artists: A Guide & Handbook (Christchurch, N.Z.: Avon Fine Prints, 1980, 1980), Bibliographies, Non-fiction, Collective biography.

[21] “Projected Departure of Mr Hamley,” Daily Southern Cross, Volume XXVI, Issue 4007, 25 June 1870.

[22] Davis, “The Imperial Garrison in New Zealand, 1840-1870 with Particular Reference to Auckland.”

[23] McKie, “Ordnance Services in Colonial New Zealand 1840-1871.”

[24] Deputy Assistant Superintendent of Stores  A.R Tribe served in NZ from 1861 to 1866 and, although confirmed as an officer in the Military Store Department in the London Gazette and Harts Army List, is listed in the Soldier of Empire Database as belonging to the Military Train. soldiersofempire.nz “Imperial Soldiers Serving in New Zealand Database: A.R Tribe Record Info,”  http://www.soldiersofempire.nz/database.html.

[25] “Fort Britomart,” New Zealand Spectator and Cook’s Strait Guardian, Volum XIX, Issue 1942, 12 March 1864.