In the long march from wool serge battledress and khaki drill to modern camouflage, New Zealand’s Army experimented with a family of tropical combat garments. Born from Australian design during the Vietnam era and trialled by New Zealand from 1967, these shirts and trousers promised a purpose-built, quick-drying, field-practical alternative to heavy drill greens. For a time, they looked set to become New Zealand’s standard warm-weather combat working dress, both at home and in the tropics. Then, almost as quickly, they receded, leaving a curious footprint in New Zealand’s uniform lineage and a handful of lessons that would shape the move to DPM in the late 1970s.
From BD and DG to tropical purpose
Post-war New Zealand soldiers continued to wear Battle Dress (BD) for temperate/cold conditions, and from the mid-1950s, drill green (DG) for summer and working wear. Operations in Southeast Asia exposed the obvious: heavy wool was miserable when wet and too slow to dry; DG was serviceable for training in New Zealand but never truly “tropical.” Australia, facing the same climate and operational pressures, led Commonwealth work on new tropical combat clothing. New Zealand followed those developments closely while sustaining its forces in Malaya and, later, in Vietnam through a pragmatic mix of UK, Australian, and NZ-manufactured items.
What, exactly, were “Pixie Greens”?
Australia’s Coat and Trousers, Man’s, Field Combat, Tropical, emerged in 1966–67, taking cues from contemporary US jungle fatigues, including slanted chest pockets, sleeve pockets for shell dressings, roomy cargo pockets, and lightweight, fast-drying green cloth. Troops dubbed the ensemble “pixie greens”—the nickname’s precise origin is debated, but the colour and cut likely did the christening. Alongside these sat Jungle Greens (JG) shirts and the distinctive “Gurkha”-closure trousers with side buckles, themselves evolutions of 1950s British tropical wear.
Australian Coat and Trousers, Man’s, Field Combat, Tropical “Pixi Greens”
New Zealand trials and the “NZ Pixie” variant (1967–69)
Seeking standardisation and to leverage Australian field experience, New Zealand drew forty prototype sets of Australian Pixie Greens for troop trials at Waiouru and the 1st Battalion Depot in Burnham in early 1967.[1] The results were promising enough that, in September 1967, New Zealand accepted the Australian design with modifications for domestic training and tropical operations.[2] Three decisions shaped the NZ variant:
Cloth: Use a UK-sourced drill-green material that proved acceptable in tropical conditions and a viable replacement for heavier NZ DG in summer training.
Cut: Adopt trousers with draw-cord cuffs and side-set cargo pockets (as opposed to front-set), and include a reinforced knee area, reflecting soldier feedback during trials in New Zealand and Vietnam.
Closure: Retain the crossover waist with side buckles (“Gurkha”-style) on the NZ pattern trousers, preserving the familiar, adjustable fastening preferred by troops.[3]
New Zealand, Trousers, Mens, Drill Green Field Combat, Tropical, (1967 Patt)
Sizing followed the Australian scale, simplifying production and interchangeability. New Zealand formalised specifications as Purchase Description No. 106 (4 January 1968) for the shirt and a companion description for the trousers (5 February 1968), essentially creating the NZ 1967 Pattern “pixie” shirt and trousers.[4][5]
Coat, Mans, Drill Green Field Combat, Tropical (1969 Patt)
Features, fixes and false starts
The trials were not without missteps. In a bid to modernise closures, an early NZ trouser run replaced waist buttons/buckles with Velcro. Pairs were shipped to the infantry in Vietnam for hard-use evaluation. The verdict was negative, Velcro clogged, wore poorly, and was noisy, and the idea was dropped.[6] Meanwhile, Australia transitioned from Mark 1 to Mark 2 (1968), expanding the size range and refining details, and New Zealand followed some of these changes by issuing a 1969 Pattern coat with twelve sizes.[7] Even so, colour shade variation, cloth strength inconsistencies, and user preferences would continue to plague the clothing throughout the next phase.[8]
Operational reality: mixed scales and supply pragmatism
Between 1957 and the early 1970s, New Zealand sustained forces in Malaya/Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam via a flexible “capitation” model: draw theatre-specific items from British (and later Australian) stocks, pay the bill, and top up with NZ-made kit where feasible. Between 1970 and 1974, as Britain withdrew east of Suez and Australia rationalised its supply, New Zealand matured its own catalogue. It maintained items in Singapore through the Australian/New Zealand 5 Advanced Ordnance Depot, often in parallel with Australian equivalents. Even then, soldiers frequently wore hybrid ensembles: British, Australian and NZ pieces intermixed by role, issue timing, and availability. The “pixie greens” were part of that mosaic, particularly for Vietnam-tasked contingents receiving substantial Australian clothing issues.
The turn homeward—and a change of heart (1971–74)
In 1971, New Zealand Army’s policy aimed to:
Replace DG with a summer/tropical combat uniform (where the NZ “pixie” patterns should have shone), and
Replace BD with a temperate/winter combat uniform.
A pilot at Papakura evaluated the 1967/69 “pixie” combat sets for garrison and training use in New Zealand. Results were mixed to poor: troops disliked the shade and texture variability, questioned durability, and preferred familiar DG for most warm-weather training tasks.
Regimental Sergeant Majors (RSMs) disliked them for their unsoldierly appearance. Minor redesigns and colour-control efforts followed, but confidence ebbed. In effect, New Zealand concluded that following Australia’s tropical path had not delivered a reliable, popular, all-round combat working dress for home conditions. Procurement was frozen pending a strategic reset.
Enter DPM—and the quiet sunset of Pixie Greens
While the “pixie” experiment stalled, New Zealand began formal trials (1974–75) of the UK 1968 Pattern Disruptive Pattern Material (DPM) for temperate wear. Troops rated it highly, finding it comfortable, warm, well-designed, and, crucially, it answered the immediate temperature-climate problem that BD and ad-hoc layers could not solve. Approval was granted in December 1975, with a phased introduction from 1977/78, and domestic manufacture was to utilise imported cloth.
The tropical dress was left in the legacy of JG/DG until the late 1980s, when lightweight DPM shirts and trousers finally arrived. In Singapore, proposals to fit NZFORSEA with tropical DPM were declined in 1980 on operational/technical grounds (including IR signature considerations), keeping JG in service a little longer. By then, “pixie greens” had largely faded from view: no longer a national standard, occasionally encountered in remnants and photos, but not the backbone working dress their early promise suggested.
What the “Pixie Greens” episode taught New Zealand
Design must match the use case A cut that excels in jungle operations is not automatically ideal for New Zealand training cycles, climates, and soldier expectations. Home-training suitability matters because that’s where troops spend most days.
Cloth quality and colour control are decisive “Green” is not a single thing. Shade, handle, drying time, abrasion resistance, and consistency across batches drive acceptance and longevity more than pattern geometry alone.
Iterate fast, but listen faster. Velcro closures sounded modern; field users quickly proved they were impractical. Embedding troops early, across climates, saves time and money.
Standardise sensibly, sustain pragmatically. The capitation era forced New Zealand to juggle UK, Australian, and NZ stock lines. The “pixie greens” story is also a supply-chain story: catalogue discipline, sizing alignment, and interchangeable specs reduce friction when allies withdraw or policies shift.
Legacy and memory
Ask a veteran of Southeast Asian training or service in Malaysia, and you may still hear about the “pixies”: light, practical, decent in the bush, yet never quite the right fit for New Zealand’s full spectrum of needs. Their real legacy is less sartorial than institutional. The trials, amendments, and eventual pivot to DPM matured New Zealand’s approach to combat clothing procurement: begin with a clear climate problem; test proven allied solutions; codify specifications tightly; privilege field feedback; and only then scale manufacture at home. The temperate DPM suite prospered under that discipline; tropical DPM followed once the case was equally strong. In that sense, the “pixie greens” were a necessary way-station, an experiment that taught New Zealand how to choose, not merely how to sew.
Size Range
Notes
[1] Army 246/78/5/Q(D) Trial Instructions Tropical Combat Dress (Aust) 11 January 1967. “Clothing – Clothing and Equipment Trials in Training,” Archives NZ No R9853144 (1966 – 1969).
[2] Army 213/1/106/Q(D) Tropical Combat Clothing Trial 11 September 1967. Ibid.
[3] Army 213/1/106/OS9 Trouser Combat Tropical Trial 4 January 1968.Ibid.
[4] NZ Army Purchase Description No 105 dated 4 January 1968. “Clothing – Men’s Drill Green Field Combat Tropical 1967 Pattern 1970-71,” Archives NZ No R24510756 (1970-71).
[5] NZ Army Purchase Description No 106 dated 5 February 1968. “Clothing – Trousers Men’s Drill Green Field Combat – Tropical 1967 Pattern,” Archives NZ No R24510754 (1968 -1968).
[6] Army 213/1/106/Q899 Trousers: Combat Tropical 28 March 1968
[7] NZ Army Purchase Description No 105A dated 23 October 1969. “Clothing – Men’s Drill Green Field Combat Tropical 1967 Pattern 1970-71.”
[8] Army 213/1/106/ord6 Trouser Combat Tropical 18 September 1968. “Clothing – Introduction of Combat Clothing Project.”
In 1985, the New Zealand Army embarked on the “Dress for the 90s” initiative, a comprehensive effort to modernise and streamline its uniform policy. This initiative aimed to address inefficiencies and inconsistencies in the Army’s clothing system, which had developed without a coherent long-term vision since the Second World War. Despite incremental updates, the Army’s uniform inventory had become a patchwork of outdated items, including 1940s-era garments, Jungle Greens introduced in 1958 (with minor updates in the 1960s), and the Disruptive Pattern Material (DPM) uniforms introduced in 1975 for temperate climates.
The Need for Modernisation
The impetus for change was underscored by an Army Clothing Survey conducted in 1984. The survey revealed widespread dissatisfaction among personnel with the variety, practicality, and utility of the uniforms. Common concerns included:
Overcomplexity: A wide array of uniform types resulted in inefficiency.
Operational Mismatches: Uniforms often lacked adaptability to diverse operational environments.
Aging Designs: Many garments were outdated and no longer met modern standards for durability, comfort, or appearance.
Feedback from soldiers highlighted a need to rationalise the uniform range, focusing on designs that were practical, complementary, and suited to operational requirements.
The “Dress for the 90s” Proposals
Drawing on the feedback from personnel and ongoing clothing projects, the “Dress for the 90s” paper outlined a roadmap for modernising New Zealand Army uniforms. The proposals prioritised functionality, financial efficiency, and alignment with the Army’s evolving operational needs. Key recommendations included:
Combat Clothing
Combat clothing was a central focus, with the aim of creating a cohesive and functional wardrobe for field use. Recommendations included:
DPM Wet Weather Gore-Tex Jackets and Over-Trousers: Designed to improve protection in temperate and wet climates.
Combat Dress – Wet Weather
Combat Dress – Wet Weather
DPM “Sandri” Smock: Proposed as a replacement for the existing DPM smock, enhancing functionality and comfort.
Combat Dress – Cold Weather
DPM Combat Jersey: A modern replacement for the green training jersey.
Combat Dress – Cool Weather
Lightweight Woollen Shirt: For use in temperate climates, offering improved comfort and adaptability.
Combat Dress – Temperater
DPM Shirt and Trousers for Hot Climates: Tailored for wear in tropical and arid environments.
Combat Dress – Hot Weather
Combat Dress – Hot Weather
Barrack Dress
The proposals aimed to extend the existing concepts of service dress to improve practicality and aesthetic appeal:
Bomber-Style Jacket: Proposed as a walking-out dress, offering a contemporary and functional option.
Barrack Dress – Walking Out
Summer Service Dress Updates: Replacement of the dark green summer “Dacron” uniforms with a short-sleeved version of the existing service dress shirt, compatible with the training jersey for cooler climates.
Barrack Dress – Working Cool
Barrack Dress – Working Warm
Ceremonial and Mess Dress
Minimal changes were proposed for ceremonial and mess dress, with the intention to preserve traditional designs while maintaining quality standards.
Barrack Dress – Ceremonial
Physical Training (PT) Dress
Recognising the importance of physical training in Army culture, a redesign was suggested to modernise PT uniforms, enhancing both functionality and the Army’s professional image.
Issuing Procedures and Accounting System
The initiative also proposed significant changes to the clothing issuance and accounting system to improve efficiency and cost-effectiveness:
Barrack, Service, and Mess Dress: These uniforms were to remain on a permanent issue system, supported by Uniform Upkeep Allowances (UUA).
Combat Clothing: Issued on a long-term loan basis with a free exchange system to account for wear and operational needs. This approach aimed to eliminate the UUA for combat clothing, reducing administrative and financial overheads.
Comprehensive Accounting System: The School of Army Administration was tasked with developing a robust system for tracking issued and loaned items, ensuring accountability and minimising losses.
Cost Implications
A detailed financial analysis of the initiative projected significant savings, both in terms of initial implementation and long-term operational costs. Key estimates included:
Total Savings: NZD 77,095 in 1985 (equivalent to NZD 189,800 in 2024).
Annual Savings: NZD 566,542 in 1985 (equivalent to NZD 1,394,000 in 2024).
The cost savings were expected to accumulate progressively, as the changeover was designed to be self-funding.
Supplementary Notes and Recommendations
The paper also provided supplementary recommendations to enhance the uniform system further:
Creation of a combined overcoat/raincoat, modelled on the British Macintosh.
Addition of identifiable Army-issue PT gear, such as a sweatshirt or tracksuit top.
The recommendations aimed to categorise Army uniforms into five clear types:
Ceremonial Dress
Barrack Dress
Combat Dress
Mess Dress
PT Dress
Implementation and Outcomes
While the “Dress for the 90s” proposals were not immediately adopted in full, several key items were introduced incrementally over the following years:
DPM Wet Weather Jackets and Over-Trousers: Introduced in 1985, these were manufactured using “Entrant” fabric instead of Gore-Tex for cost efficiency. Designs were subsequently refined.
DPM Sandri Smock: Rolled out in 1985, this item received mixed feedback and was eventually replaced by an updated DPM smock in the mid-1990s.
Woollen Shirts: Issued in 1985 but faced divisive reception, leading to their withdrawal in favour of the DPM shirt in the early 1990s.
DPM Shirt: Trialled in 1985, this garment was gradually adopted and became standard by 1988.
DPM Combat Jersey: Introduced on a trial basis but not adopted for general use.
Barrack Dress: Significant updates were delayed until the mid-1990s, when the outdated Dacron uniforms were replaced by the Service Dress for All Ranks (SDAR).
Conclusion
The “Dress for the 90s” initiative represented a landmark effort to rationalise and modernise New Zealand Army uniforms. While the full scope of the proposals was not immediately implemented, the initiative established a clear direction for future updates. The incremental introduction of key items laid the groundwork for a more cohesive, functional, and cost-efficient uniform system, ensuring that the New Zealand Army’s clothing policy remained aligned with its operational and professional requirements.[1]
Notes
[1] “Conferences – Policy and General – NZ Army Dress Committee 1985-87,” Archives New Zealand No R17311898 (1984).
“The helmet stands as both a shield and a symbol, embodying the soldier’s readiness to face danger and the military’s commitment to their protection.”
— General Sir John Hackett, British Army
The helmet is a powerful symbol of a soldier’s resilience, providing protection and identity. For the New Zealand Army, the adoption and evolution of helmets reflect a narrative of adaptability, innovation, and the commitment to safeguarding soldiers in varied operational environments. From the steel helmets of World War I to today’s advanced combat systems, this journey mirrors the shifting demands of warfare and continuous technological progress.
In the First World War, the grim realities of trench combat highlighted the urgent need for improved personal protection, leading to the widespread adoption of steel helmets. Initially equipped with traditional headgear, New Zealand troops transitioned to the British Mark I helmet upon deployment to the Western Front. Efforts to manufacture helmets locally demonstrated the country’s resourcefulness but faced challenges due to material shortages and reliance on British production capabilities.
As warfare evolved, so did helmet technology. During World War II, the Mark I helmet remained in use, bolstered by locally produced variants to address the demands of home defence and civil protection. In the post-war years, New Zealand retained its stockpile of helmets for conscription-based forces. Still, global advancements in military equipment eventually necessitated a shift to modern designs, such as adopting the American M1 helmet in the 1960s.
The late 20th century saw revolutionary advances in helmet materials, with composite designs redefining protection standards. From the introduction of the PASGT (Personnel Armour System for Ground Troops) helmet in the 1990s to the Rabintex ACH and the state-of-the-art Viper P4 helmet adopted in 2021, the New Zealand Army has continually prioritised the integration of enhanced protection, comfort, and functionality.
This account represents the first comprehensive exploration of the New Zealand Army’s helmet history, tracing their evolution from rudimentary steel shells to sophisticated modular systems. It examines the practical challenges, local ingenuity, and global influences that shaped their development, offering a foundational perspective on the broader evolution of the Army’s equipment and operational readiness. As an introduction to this subject, it sets the stage for future research, inviting deeper study into the innovative and adaptive journey of New Zealand’s military equipment.
WW1
During the First World War, spurred mainly by the demands of trench warfare, the concept of soldier personal protection underwent a revival, notably with the introduction of helmets. By 1915, it became evident that a significant number of casualties were suffering head wounds due to falling debris, shell splinters, and bullets while in the trenches. Recognising this danger, the French were the first to develop a metal head-guard, the Adrian helmet, named after the general who championed its adoption. Legend has it that the inspiration for this design came from observing troops using their metal mess tins as makeshift head protection,[1] Distribution of the Adrian helmet to French troops commenced in June 1915.[2]
Both the British and Germans began experimenting with similar steel helmets. The British version based on a design patented by John Leopold Brodie resembled an old kettle hat utilised by Pikemen, with a domed skull and a slightly sloping brim. Internal felt pads initially absorbed shock, later replaced by more sophisticated liners for better fit and impact absorption. Following a trial of 500 in August 1915, the helmet was accepted into the British Army Service as the Steel Helmet, War Office Pattern, Type A (shell made from magnetic mild Steel). The Type A was soon replaced by the Type B (Shell made from Hadfield (manganese) steel). The British began their distribution of the Brodie Helmet in September 1915, starting with an allocation of 50 per battalion.[3] In Spring 1916 (March-June), the British improved the Brodie Helmet by adding a mild steel rim to the shell and redesigning the liner; this modification was codified as the Helmet Steel, Mark 1. However, all marks of the British hele are often called the Brodie Helmet. The German helmet of World War 1, the Stahlhelm helmet, offered more comprehensive defence, particularly to the back of the head and neck, compared to its French and British counterparts and was approved for general issue in January 1916.
These developments did not go unnoticed in New Zealand, with newspaper reports extolling the benefits of the French helmets, detailing how by September 1915, Three Hundred Thousand had been issued to French troops at a rate of 25000 a day.[4] Such reports caught the eye of the Engineer-in -charge of the Waihi Grand Junction mine, with experience in producing miners’ helmets, he reached out through his father-in-law, A Rogerson Esq, representing the warehousing firm of Macky, Logan, Caldwell, to the Minister for Munitions, proposing that “helmets could easily be manufactured in Waihi, and no doubt elsewhere in New Zealand.” and that if the Minster should consider “it advisable to equip our contingents with them, there will be no difficulty in the supply.”[5]
Arthur Myers, the Minister for Munitions, acknowledged receipt of Rogerson’s proposal on 29 September, replying that “I might mention that the Question of the possibility of manufacturing in this country all classes of munitions is At present receiving my very careful consideration, and you may rest assured that every effort is being made to enable a definite decision to be arrived at in this connection as soon as possible”.[6] At this early stage of the war, the New Zealand industry was stepping up to support the war effort, providing all manner of war material from clothing to mobile Filed Kitchens, so it is highly probable that that was just one of many proposals that simply fell through the bureaucratic gaps. However, Mr. Hogg, an employee of the Petone Railway Workshops and an advocate for manufacturing steel helmets in New Zealand, made better progress, expressing confidence that he could produce a low-cost helmet for New Zealand troops overseas, provided the materials were available. His proposal received a positive response and was granted permission to create samples for military evaluation.[7] During February and March 1916, the trial helmets underwent testing at Trentham camp, with the New Zealand Herald providing the following summary:
The Tenth Artillery engaged in practice with live shrapnel at Trentham on Thursday afternoon. the number of shots fired being eight. Some steel helmets made at the Petone railway workshops were tested. Two guns were used, and they were placed on the parade ground with their muzzles pointing towards the eastern hills. Officers and men of the 11th, 12th and 13th artillery reinforcements were at the observation point, a hillcrest about 600 yds to the left of the target upon which the guns were trained. Stuffed canvas dummies wearing steel helmets were every one of them riddled with shrapnel bullets. Strangely enough only one of the steel helmets was struck. A bullet or other projectile had struck the side of the helmet a glancing blow and pierced it in such a way that about three quarters of an inch of ragged steel was driven inwards. It would have resulted m the death of the wearer. – The helmet was perfectly smooth, without ridges or any projection at all, such as appear in photographs of similar French helmets. Experts in the camp consider a slight ridging would have deflected the missile sufficiently to avoid inflicting a fatal wound. The results of this test and the test* made at Trentham recently with similar helmets show that a harder steel or a different shape will have to be devised before they can be served out for use by the troops.[8] ,
More evidence is needed to indicate whether trials of New Zealand-manufactured helmets have continued beyond these initial efforts. The scarcity of suitable materials likely made it impractical, and the increasing production of helmets in the United Kingdom had reached a point where the requirements of the NZEF could be adequately met. Therefore, New Zealand’s industrial efforts could be better prioritised in other areas.
The introduction of steel helmets came too late to impact the Gallipoli campaign, where their use could have significantly reduced casualties. Upon the New Zealand Division’s arrival on the Western Front from Egypt, they were issued new equipment developed by the British Army for trench warfare, including the Mark 1 Helmet. Initially, helmets were generally worn only at the front or during training. The distinctive Lemon Squeezer hat with coloured puggarees remained the official headdress worn in the trenches.[9]
New Zealand soldiers at the front near Le Quesnoy. Royal New Zealand Returned and Services’ Association :New Zealand official negatives, World War 1914-1918. Ref: 1/2-013798-G. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand. /records/22728328
Accessories provided with the Mark 1 helmet included canvas and hessian covers, and in 1917, the Cruise visored helmet. Named after their inventor, Captain Richard R Cruise of the Royal Army Medical Corps, concerned by the number of soldiers being blinded by shrapnel and shell splinters, developed a chain mail veil or curtain for attachment to the Mark 1 helmet. On 18 April 1917, the New Zealand Division DADOS staff received 1200 Cruise visored helmets. These were not considered much improvement, and most units did not uplift their quota.[10]
The armistice of 11 November 1918 brought a sudden end to the fighting on the Western Front. As the NZEF was demobilised, all its equipment, including helmets, was disposed of by handing back to British Ordnance depots and disposing of the items unable to be returned by sale or destruction. However, late in 1918, a request was placed to James Allen, the New Zealand Minister of Defence, whether the NZEF men could retain their helmets and respirators as souvenirs. This request was approved, allowing the retention of steel helmets for those who wished, which was a good decision in hindsight. It enabled many examples of WW1 helmets used by New Zealanders to remain available for museums and collectors today.[11]
Although the NZEF disposed of its wartime equipment, much of it tired and worn, the New Zealand Ordnance Staff in London was busy indenting, receipting, and dispatching back to New Zealand a large amount of new and modern equipment, including web equipment and helmets, to form and sustain an Expeditionary Force of at least one Infantry Division, a mounted Rifle Brigade, an Artillery Regiment, and a Line of Communications troops.[12] This equipment would serve two roles: first, to provide stocks to equip the peacetime Territorial Force, and second, in the event of another war, to equip the next expeditionary force.
Interwar Period
During the interwar period, New Zealand faced financial constraints, leading to a slowdown in military activities. Most of the new equipment received from the United Kingdom after World War I was stored as mobilisation stock. Small quantities were used by the Territorial Force and for equipping small detachments sent to the South Pacific at various times in the 1920s and 30s.
In 1936, the British Army began upgrading the Mark I helmet to the Helmet, Steel, Mark I* variant, which included an improved liner and an elasticated, sprung webbing chin strap. By 1938, the Mark I* was being replaced by the Mark II, featuring the same liner and chinstrap but with a new non-magnetic rim shell to accommodate magnetic compass use.
There is little evidence to suggest that New Zealand made efforts to update its stock of Mark I helmets to the Mark I* or Mark II models. Consequently, when war erupted in 1939, New Zealand remained initially equipped with the Mark I Steel Helmet.
WW2
Before Japan entered the war on December 7, 1941, the Army’s activities in New Zealand were principally directed at providing reinforcements for the 2nd New Zealand Expeditionary Force (2NZEF) and maintaining the efficiency of Home Defence Forces at as high a level as possible in readiness for any deterioration in the international situation.
2NZEF
2NZEF in the Middle East was equipped and maintained entirely from British Army sources, except for uniforms and boots, which were periodically supplied from New Zealand.[13]
2NZEF arrived in Egypt with the same uniforms and web equipment as the NZEF of 1918. As stocks became available, the NZ Base Ordnance Depot (NZ BOD) began to issue the new 1937 pattern ‘Battledress’, ‘37 pattern webbing’, and Helmets to all New Zealand Troops. A bulk of 2NZDF’s requirements were met when 7000 helmets were received from the RAOC Depot at Kasr-el-Nil on 21 August 1940, with the immediate distribution of 5000 to 2NZEF units.[14] As each additional draft arrived in the Middle East, they were issued with theatre-specific clothing and equipment, including helmets.
With Japan’s entry into World War II, the Pacific became an active theatre of conflict, requiring the New Zealand Army to prepare for immediate enemy action. Anticipating hostilities with Japan, New Zealand had already bolstered its Pacific presence. Since 1939, a platoon-sized contingent was stationed on Fanning Island, and by 1940, a Brigade Group was garrisoned in Fiji. Orders for new equipment had been placed well in advance. As hostilities escalated, New Zealand’s claims for supplies were prioritised, resulting in a significant increase in the required equipment volume and delivery schedules.
Army training in New Zealand. New Zealand. Department of Internal Affairs. War History Branch :Photographs relating to World War 1914-1918, World War 1939-1945, occupation of Japan, Korean War, and Malayan Emergency. Ref: PA1-q-291-95-272. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand. /records/22732486
A critical shortage of steel helmets arose when the United Kingdom could not fulfil New Zealand’s order for 30,000 helmets. This prompted a domestic solution. General Motors New Zealand and the New Zealand Railway Workshops began producing Mark II helmets locally, using materials and equipment sourced from Australia. Pressing machinery was acquired from John Heine & Son Ltd in Sydney, while Lysaght’s Australia supplied sheet steel.
The helmet bodies, made from manganese steel and weighing approximately 1,120 grams, were produced in a single size. To ensure a proper fit, liners in seven sizes were sourced from the Australian branch of Dunlop, which also supplied chinstraps. Notably, the chinstrap lugs were uniquely manufactured in New Zealand, marked with “NPZ” (New Zealand Pressing), the year of manufacture, and the acceptance stamp of the New Zealand Physical Laboratories (NZPL).
Assembly took place at the General Motors plant in Petone. The helmets were identified by the Commonwealth Steel “CS” logo on the brim and the distinctive “NPZ” chinstrap lugs. Due to limited production, New Zealand-made helmets from 1941 are rare.
Two unidentified women working on military helmets during World War 2. Burt, Gordon Onslow Hilbury, 1893-1968 :Negatives. Ref: 1/2-037274-F. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand. /records/23231257
Simultaneously, New Zealand mobilised its entire Territorial Force, reassessing its defence strategy to bolster Coast Defence, secure critical infrastructure, reinforce Pacific garrisons, and expand its military units. This included raising new formations and providing reinforcements for overseas service while allocating administrative and instructional staff to sustain operations.
By January 1942, New Zealand’s helmet stock stood at 69,500, with three requisitions for additional helmets underway:
Requisition 32/41: 6,500 helmets from the United Kingdom, expected for shipment within a month of 30 January 1942.
Requisition 39/41: 40,000 helmets from Australia, with delivery starting three months from 16 December 1941. Helmet bodies and liners were to be assembled in New Zealand.
Requisition 150/41: 65,700 helmets from the United Kingdom, of which 33,000 were already in transit by 30 January 1942, with the remainder expected for shipment within a month.
Despite these measures, broader defence requirements—including those of the Navy, Air Force, Home Guard, and Emergency Precautions Scheme (EPS)—required 181,500 helmets, reflecting the scale of New Zealand’s wartime mobilisation efforts.[15]
Equipping the Emergency Precautions Scheme
As Japan advanced across Asia and the Pacific, the possibility of air raids on New Zealand cities became a pressing concern. The EPS needed an estimated 100,000 helmets. With military stocks insufficient, the New Zealand Ministry of Supply authorised helmet production for the EPS in February 1942.
Inspired by British Air Raid Precautions (ARP) helmets, New Zealand industries rose to meet the demand. Auckland engineer H.J. Butcher sourced steel plate locally to produce several thousand helmets. Collaborating with a luggage manufacturer for linings, production began swiftly. Wellington followed suit, with three local firms producing approximately 2,000 weekly helmets. Factories repurposed from making radios, slippers, and washing machines contributed to the effort. Some unfinished helmet shells were sent to Christchurch for painting, fitting, and final assembly. This collaborative effort showcased the ingenuity and resourcefulness of New Zealand’s industries.[16]
EPS helmets resembled military helmets but were made from lighter steel and featured simpler linings, reflecting their civil defence role.
Distribution and Post-War Transition
By March 1944, with pre-Mark I helmets utilised and 54,000 Mark II helmets manufactured in New Zealand, along with orders from Australia and the United Kingdom, 265,295 steel helmets had been distributed to New Zealand’s Home Defence Forces as follows:
September 1939 to November 1940 – 17,300
1941- 8,127
1942 – 150,158
1943 – 87,123
By 31 March 1944 – 2,587
As the tactical situation shifted in 1944, most units raised for home defence began demobilising, returning equipment introduced during the rapid wartime expansion. This left New Zealand’s ordnance depots well-stocked to support the army in the immediate post-war years.
Post-war
The post-war New Zealand Army was initially structured around conscription to form a division intended for deployment in the Middle East. To this end, World War II-era equipment was deemed adequate, and training throughout the 1950s and early 1960s relied heavily on these wartime reserves.
However, the outbreak of the Korean War and the Malayan Emergency prompted New Zealand to shift its strategic focus from the Middle East to operations in Southeast Asia. This reorientation highlighted the need to reassess equipment suitability for the region’s unique climate and terrain. In 1958, the New Zealand Army initiated a series of programmes to research and develop clothing and equipment better suited to Southeast Asia’s challenging conditions. Among the identified priorities was the need for a modernised helmet.
The M1 Helmet
On 7 April 1959, New Zealand Army Headquarters submitted a request to the New Zealand Joint Services Mission (NZJSM) in Washington, DC, for a sample of the latest US steel helmet. NZJSM responded on 4 May 1959, confirming that a single helmet had been dispatched. They also provided cost and availability details for larger quantities, ranging from 1 to 10,000 units:
Federal Stock Number
Nomenclature
Unit Cost
8415-255-5879
Helmet
$2.50
8415-240-2512
Liner
$2.50
5415-153-6670
Neck Band
$0.06
8415-153-6671
Head Band
$0.35
The helmets would be available approximately 90 days after purchase arrangements were completed.[17]
Impressed by the simplicity, utility and improved protection offered by the M1 helmet—a versatile, one-size-fits-all design—the New Zealand Army ordered 100 M2 helmets in late 1959 for troop trials. At the time, the standard-issue helmets utilised by the New Zealand Army were the Steel Helmet No. 1 Mk 1 and the Steel Helmet No. 2 Mk 1, by this stage just referred to as the Mark 1 Helmet, a design that had largely remained unchanged for 45 years.
When the 100 trial helmets arrived in July 1960, 75 were allocated to 1 NZ Regiment at Burnham, and the remaining 25 were sent to the School of Infantry for acceptance trials. These trials were scheduled to conclude by 18 November 1960.
The evaluation focused on several key criteria, including comfort, stability, concealment, hindrance, and impact on hearing. In all respects, the trial helmets were found to be superior to the current Mark 1 Helmet.[18]
Supporting the acceptance trials was a comprehensive infantry equipment requirements review that identified the M1 helmet, complete with liner, as the preferred replacement for the Mark 1 Helmet. This report outlined the need for 3,048 helmets to equip the Regular Infantry, SAS, the School of Infantry, and All Arms Training Establishments.[19]
In June 1961, the Chief of General Staff submitted a report to the Army Board recommending the replacement of the current Steel Helmet with the American M1 Helmet. The report provided an overview of the helmet’s background and development in Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
As New Zealand traditionally sourced its equipment from the United Kingdom, it was noted that although the British were developing an improved combat helmet to replace their current Mark 4 Helmet (then in use in Southeast Asia), it would be several years before this new design would be ready for production. The report emphasised that New Zealand could not afford to wait that long to replace its helmets, making the adoption of the American M1 Helmet the most practical and timely solution.[20]
Following the recommendations of the Army Board, the Minister of Defence submitted a proposal to Cabinet for approval to purchase 6000 helmets at a total cost of £26600 (2024 $1,446,665.68). Subsequently approved by the Cabinet, the 1962 Annual Report of the New Zealand Army announced that the M1 helmet had been officially ordered.[21]
In 1961, the Army held approximately 90,000 Mark 1 Helmets, prioritising issuing M1 Helmets to regular Force Field Force Units. As additional M1 helmets were procured and supplied, distribution to the rest of the Army followed. To maintain a balance of helmets available to the army, 40,000 Mark 1 Helmets were to be for reserve purposes, with the remaining Mark 1 Helmets disposed of.[22]
The M1 helmet consisted of several components, including a steel shell, liner, neck, and headband, which were NZ Complete Equipment Schedule (CES) items. The M1 Helmet CES was CES492, 8415-NZ-101-0601, Helmet, Steel US Pattern authorised for use on 13 May 1963.[23] The M1 Helmet was considered a loan item to be managed by units with helmets either issued to individuals for the duration of their time in the unit or held as a pool item only issued for specific activities. Allocation of helmets to units was based on the New Zealand Entitlement Table (NZET), which determines how many helmets a unit could hold based on role and strength. The NZET was further supported by New Zealand Block Scales (NZBS), which managed the specific management of helmets. The term “Block Scale” refers to the New Zealand Army’s standardised lists detailing the quantity and type of equipment and supplies allocated to units, from ammunition allocation to items required for barracks or messes. This system ensured uniformity and efficiency in resource distribution across the Army. The items and quantities included in a NZBS were tailored to a unit’s function and size. Helmets were contained within various NZBS, for example.
NZBS 01/34 Helmets, Steel, Field Force.
NZBS 30/18 Scale of Issue – Clothing and Necessaries – All Ranks posted for duty in South Vietnam.
NZBS 01/19 Personnel Equipment I United Nations Military Observers.
By 31 May 1967, in addition to the original 100 trial helmets, the following had been purchased.
With the continued introduction of M1 Helmets, the total amount of Mark 1 Helmet held in reserve was to be reduced to 24,500, all to be held at the Main Ordnance Depot at Trentham. However, it was soon realised that there was no requirement to retain that much stock of Mark 1 helmets existed, and 20,000 were authorised for disposal.[25]
Total requestions for M1 Helmets between 1959 and 1969 were:
By 1972, the Mark 1 had ceased to be a current item of equipment in the New Zealand Army, and units were authorised to dispose of any remaining Mark 1 components through the Board of Survey process.[27]
M1 Helmet Covers
Camouflage covers explicitly designed for use with the M1 helmet were not part of the initial New Zealand M1 helmet purchase. The topic covered was not raised until 1967, when 31,792 Mark 1 Helmet covers were declared surplus.[28] Since the introduction of the M1 helmet, a simple modification made it possible to use the Mark 1 Hessian Camouflage cover with the M1 Helmet. As this was a simple and cost-effective solution, the Mark 1 Covers declared surplus were be retained and, once dyed a suitable green colour, made available through NZBS 01/34 to units with an entitlement for the M1 helmet.[29]
Undyed Hessian Cover
Dyed Hessian Cover
Although New Zealand troops serving in South Vietnam sometimes utilised M1 helmets with American camouflage helmet covers, this was primarily because the helmets were drawn from American or Australian stocks in the theatre. It wasn’t until 1976 that New Zealand officially purchased and adopted camouflage covers designed for the M1 helmet.
The first covers specifically designed for the M1 helmet were 5000; Mitchell pattern camouflage covers purchased in 1976.[30] The Mitchell pattern cover was a distinctive, reversible design primarily used by the United States during the mid-20th century, notably in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. It featured two camouflage patterns on opposite sides, intended to suit different seasonal or environmental conditions, a Green Leaf ‘Summer’ Side and a Brown Cloud ‘Winter’ Side.
Example of Mitchell M1 Helmet Cover
Although units were entitled to demand the newly issued covers, existing Mark 1 helmet cover stocks were expected to be utilised first and only replaced once completely worn out. However, this was a policy that was loosely applied.
In the early 1980s, New Zealand supplemented the Mitchell pattern helmet covers with ERDL (Engineer Research and Development Laboratory) pattern covers, formally accepted into US service in 1971.
Example of ERDL M1 Helmet Cover
With New Zealand adopting the British Disruptive Pattern Material (DPM)pattern as its standard camouflage pattern for uniforms in 1975, it would take until the mid-1980s when a full suite of DPM uniforms began to be introduced.[31] However, with multiple uniforms in NZDPM being progressively rolled out, it would not be until the early 1990s that a NZDPM cover for the M1 Helmet would be introduced. However, with large socks of Mitchell and ERDL covers remaining and the use of helmets limited to range activities and some exercises, uniformity of helmet covers was a low priority. Right up to the withdrawal of the M1 Helemt helmets, all three types of covers remained in use.
Transition to a new Helmet
In 1984 an Army stock take of Personal Support Items (PSI), which included helmets, revealed that the stock of helmets across army consisted of
1 Base Supply Battalion – 1 with orders for 916 to be satisfied once new stock received.
1 Task Force Region – 916.
3 Task Force Region – 2396.
There is no balance against the Army Training Group (ATG) and Force Maintenance Group (FMG).[32] These formations likely held the stock, just not included in returns.
With no significant purchases of PSI, including helmets, since the early 1970s, finance was made available to purchase additional items to replenish stock with vendors in South Korea able to satisfy demands at reasonable rates.
Concurrent with this purchase, the Infantry Directorate was conducting Project Foxhound to investigate many issues related to personnel equipment. At a meeting of the Army Clothing Committee in June 1984, the project chairman advised that several overseas helmets, including a newly modified UK helmet, were awaiting trial. It was agreed that no urgency was necessary as the present stocks of helmets were sufficient. It was agreed, however, that trials should continue to confirm NZ’s preferred specifications.[33]
By 1988, the United States and the United Kingdom had adopted new combat helmets made from advanced materials. These helmets provided improved ballistic protection and were lighter and more comfortable for soldiers. With Australia also investigating the introduction of modern helmets, the New Zealand Army initiated a Project to replace Combat helmets on 25 Feb 1988.[34] It is believed that during helmet trials conducted in the 1980s, Pacific Helmets of Whanganui submitted designs for a composite combat helmet for evaluation. However, further research is required to confirm this.
New Zealand introduced the Personnel Armor System for Ground Troops (PASGT) combat helmet, which had been in use by the United States military since the early 1980s, in 1990. The PASGT did not initially replace the M1 helmet in New Zealand service. The M1 helmet was retained as a whole-of-service issue and continued to be used as a training helmet, ensuring its availability for non-combat purposes until finally withdrawn from service in 2010.
Personnel Armor System for Ground Troops (PASGT) combat helmet
Airborne Helmets
New Zealand’s initial airborne-capable component was the New Zealand Special Air Service (NZSAS), which maintained parachuting as a core capability. The NZSAS conducted their first parachute training during their deployment to Malaya in 1956. Upon their return to New Zealand, ongoing parachute training was provided by the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF).
New Zealand Army SAS parachute troops, Singapore. New Zealand. Department of Internal Affairs. War History Branch :Photographs relating to World War 1914-1918, World War 1939-1945, occupation of Japan, Korean War, and Malayan Emergency. Ref: M-0290-F. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand. /records/22665659
As a new capability for the New Zealand Army, the NZSAS was initially equipped with the British Helmet, Steel, Airborne Troops Mk II. Developed during World War II, this helmet was available in 19 sizes, of which New Zealand held eight:
8415-99-120-2905 – 6 3/8
8415-99-120-2908 – 6 3/4
8415-99-120-2909 – 6 7/8
8415-99-120-2910 – 7
8415-99-120-2911 – 7 3/8
8415-99-120-2912 – 7 1/4
8415-99-120-2913 – 7 3/8
8415-99-120-2914 – 7 1/2
The initial issue to the NZSAS in 1962 consisted of 75 Mk II Airborne helmets, but 50 of these were in sizes smaller than 7, rendering them unusable for most of the unit. These undersized helmets were later exchanged for larger sizes, and by 1966, the unit was fully equipped with its entitlement of 105 helmets.
Helmet, Steel, Airborne Troops Mk II
Over time, a Lightweight safety helmet was adopted for parachute training, while the Mk II helmet remained in use with the NZSAS until the late 1970s when limited availability of spare parts rendered it unsupportable.
Due to the modular design of the M1 helmet, components were procured to adapt it for parachuting. However, these were managed within a separate NZBS which lacked controls to differentiate between M1 helmets configured for ground troops and those configured for airborne operations. Fortunately, the Army’s attempts to mainstream airborne operations were limited to a few exercises in the mid-1980s, as this lack of oversight could have caused safety and logistical complications.
Charlie Compant 2/1 RNZIR, Para drop Tekapo, New Zealand, 1985
Other Variations with the NZ M1 Helmets
Aside from variations in M1 helmet covers and differences between ground and airborne components, the primary distinction in New Zealand’s M1 helmets lay in the helmet liners. The type of liner depended on when the helmets were purchased—initially from the United States and later from South Korea. Once received, there was no formal system in place to manage these variations as separate supply items. Despite the differences in liners, all M1 helmet liners were treated as identical within the New Zealand Army’s inventory. Examples of the different liners were:
M1 Helmet Liner – Infantry P55- Made from laminated cotton duck, the liner featured:
suspension webbing that could be adjusted to hold the liner at the right height on the wearer’s head
neck strap and adjustable neck band that was designed to prevent the helmet from pitching forward
leather-lined headband that could be adjusted to the wearer’s head size
M1 Helmet Liner – Infantry P64 – Made from laminated cotton duck from 1964 and 1969, it was also produced in laminated high-strength nylon fabric between 1964 and 1974, offering improved ballistic protection but was heavier than the cotton duck version. The liner featured:
A new suspension with three webbing straps that could each be adjusted to hold the liner at the right height on the head.
A new neck band assembly consisting of a rectangular webbed body with three straps attached to small buckles inside the liner.
The P64 Infantry liner did not have a leather chin strap. [36]
South Korean liner – Made from Reinforced Plastics. The liner featured
A suspension similar to the P64 liner.
Overview of New Zealand Army Helmet Development from 2000
The story of helmets in the New Zealand Army since 2000 is one of evolving technology, logistical hiccups, sub-optimal management, and creative adaptability by soldiers. While this overview touches on key milestones, it’s far from the whole picture—there’s still more to uncover.
M1 to PASGT: Growing Pains
Switching from the M1 helmet to the PASGT wasn’t exactly smooth sailing, with both helmets often seen on the same missions, partly due to a disjointed rollout that left distribution and entitlement a bit messy and that, unlike the M1, the PSAGT was not one size fits all helmet but one that needed to be sized to provide the best fit and protection for the user.
Early on, the PASGT helmet didn’t even come with proper covers, so soldiers improvised, repurposing M1 covers to make do. It wasn’t until the late ’90s that the Army finally issued covers in NZDPM, solving the problem of providing some uniformity and a more professional look.
Example of PASGT with M1 ERDL Cover
2008 PASGT Upgrade: Comfort and Protection Boost
In 2008, the PASGT got a much-needed upgrade with the Skydex Harness. This new suspension system, complete with padding, made the helmet more comfortable and offered better protection. It was a solid improvement that helped the helmet keep up with modern demands.
PASGT fittd with Skydex Harness
2012: Rabintex 303AU ACH
In 2012, the Rabintex 303AU Advanced Combat Helmet (ACH) that had begun to be introduced in 2008 replaced the PASGT for operational use. The ACH brought better ballistic protection and a more modern design, while the PASGT Skydex helmets were relegated to training duties.
Rabintex 303AU Advanced Combat Helmet (ACH)
2021: Viper P4
By 2021, the NZ Army had moved on again, introducing the full cut Viper P4 helmet to replace the Rabintex ACH.[37] The Viper P4 helmet is a lightweight, advanced combat helmet offering superior ballistic and fragmentation protection. It features a Modular Suspension System for enhanced comfort and stability and supports a range of mission-specific accessories like mounts, rails, and visors, making it versatile and adaptable for modern military operations.
full cut Viper P4 helmet
In conclusion, the evolution of helmets within the New Zealand Army is more than a mere account of changing headgear—it’s an example of adaptability, resourcefulness, and commitment to soldier protection. This journey reflects broader trends in military innovation, operational necessity, and global advancements, from the introduction of the steel helmet during World War I to the cutting-edge Viper P4 combat helmet of today. The transition from local ingenuity in wartime manufacturing to the adoption of globally benchmarked equipment underlines the enduring focus on operational readiness and soldier safety.
This study represents an initial exploration of a multifaceted subject. While it provides a foundational understanding of the developmental milestones, practical challenges, and historical contexts surrounding New Zealand Army helmets, significant gaps remain. Further research is essential to enrich this narrative, particularly in areas like the experiences of soldiers using this equipment, the logistical processes underpinning helmet procurement and distribution, and the operational impacts of these technological shifts.
Future studies can offer a more comprehensive view of helmet evolution and the broader story of how New Zealand has continually adapted its military practices to meet changing demands. This work opens the door for more focused investigations, ensuring the legacy of those who have served is preserved and better understood.
[5] A Rogerson, Macky, Logan, Caldwell Ltd correspondence to Minister of Munitions 27 September 1915.”Uniforms, etc. – Helmets (Steel) For Use of NZEF [New Zealand Expeditionary Force],” Archives New Zealand Item No R22430036 (1915).
[6] Correspondence A Myers, Minister of Munitions to A Rogerson, Macky, Logan, Caldwell Ltd 29 September 1915 “Uniforms, etc. – Helmets (Steel) For Use of NZEF [New Zealand Expeditionary Force].”
[9] Wayne Stack and Mike Chappell, The New Zealand expeditionary force in World War I, Men-at-arms: 473, (Oxford : Osprey, 2011, 2011), 38.
[10] “Headquarters New Zealand and Australian Division – New Zealand Division – Deputy Assistant Director of Ordnance Services (DADOS) – War Diary, 1 April – 30 April 1917,” Archives New Zealand Item No R23487653 (1917).
[11] “Miscellaneous – Gas masks and steel helmets – Free issue of to troops as Souvenier,” Archives New Zealand Item No R224 32977 (1918).
[12] Mark McGuire, “Equipping the Post-Bellum Army,” Forts and Works (Wellington) 2016.
[13] “QMG (Quartermaster-Generals) Branch – September 1939 to March 1944,” Archives New Zealand Item No R25541150 (1944).
[14] “War Diary, HQ 2 NZ Division ADOS [Assistant Director of Ordnance] and DADOS [Deputy Assistant Director of Ordnance] Unit War Diary – August 1940,” Archives New Zealand Item No R26106752 (August 1940).
[15] Helmets Steel – Statement Showing Supply Position as At 30 Jan 1942 “Steel helmets – Manufacture of,” Archives New Zealand Item No R6280648 (1942).
[16] Nancy M Taylor, Home Front Volume I, The Official History of New Zealand in the Second World War 1939–1945, (Historical Publications Branch, 1986), 564.
[17] “Stores: Machinery and Tools – Mills Web Equipment and Entrenching Tools: General,” Archives New Zealand Item No R17189053 (1912-1969).
[18] 22.042 1 NZ Regt User Trial Report: US Steel Helmets Dated 2 Dec 1960. “Cookers – Helmets: Steel and Liners: Purchase and General,” Archives New Zealand No R17189104 (1942-1972).
[19] “New Infantry Equipment for New Zealand Army,” Archives New Zealand Item No R17189007 (1959 – 1970).
[20] Army 24662A Battle Helmets Dated 23 June 1961. “Cookers – Helmets: Steel and Liners: Purchase and General.”
[21] “H-19 Military Forces of New Zealand Annual Report of the General Officer Commanding, for period 1 April 1961 to 31 March 1962,” Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives (31 March 1962).
[22] Army 246/62/1/Q9E) WEPC Serial 95 Brigade Group Equipment US Battle Helmets Dated 15 November 1961. “Cookers – Helmets: Steel and Liners: Purchase and General.”
[23] NZAO 17/62. “Publications – Military: Army Form G1098: War Equipment Tables,” Archives New Zealand Item No R17189361 (1951-1963).
[24] 246/62/1 Maint Helmets Steel US Patt Dated 20 Nov 1967. “Cookers – Helmets: Steel and Liners: Purchase and General.”
[25] Army 246/62/1/Q(E) Helmets Steel Dated 20 January 1967. “Cookers – Helmets: Steel and Liners: Purchase and General.”
[26] Minute DOS to G2 Trg Date 3 Nov 1969. “Cookers – Helmets: Steel and Liners: Purchase and General.”
[27] 65/59/39 Field Force Command Routine Orders Dated 13 October 1972. “Cookers – Helmets: Steel and Liners: Purchase and General.”
[28] 246/62/D Surplus Stores Declaration, 8415-NZ-102-0167 Covers Helmet Camouflage UK Patt Qty 31792. Dated 24 April 1967. “Cookers – Helmets: Steel and Liners: Purchase and General.”
[29] Army 246/62/1/BD Covers Camouflage: Helmets Steel US Pattern Dated Nov 1967. “Cookers – Helmets: Steel and Liners: Purchase and General.”
[30] Army 246/61/1/EP Helmets Steel Cover US Pattern NSN 8415-00-261-6833 Dated 6 Sept 1976. “Arms, Ammunition, Equipment, Stores – Steel Helmets,” Archives New Zealand Item No R2952220 (1960-1979).
[31] Army 213/1/37/EP Combat Clothing Dated 9 December 1975″Clothing – Policy and General – Intro of Combat Clothing Project,” Archives New Zealand No R17311750 (1977-81).
[32] “Conferences – Policy and General – NZ Army Dress Committee 1985-87,” Archives New Zealand No R17311898 (1984).
[33] “Conferences – Policy and General – NZ Army Dress Committee 1984,” Archives New Zealand No R17311893 (1984).
[34] “Conferences – Policy and General – NZ Army Dress Committee 1985-87.”
[35] M.A. Reynosa, Post-World War II M-1 Helmets: An Illustrated Study (Schiffer Publishing, Limited, 1999), 34.
[36] Reynosa, Post-World War II M-1 Helmets: An Illustrated Study, 42 and 49.
[37] “Soldier Personel Protection Project,” New Zealand Army News Issue 551, April 2024, https://issuu.com/nzdefenceforce/docs/armynews_issue551. The Viper P4 helmet is a lightweight, advanced combat helmet offering superior ballistic and fragmentation protection. It features a Modular Suspension System for enhanced comfort and stability and supports a range of mission-specific accessories like mounts, rails, and visors, making it versatile and adaptable for modern military operations.
The beret is a type of cloth cap with a rich military history that originated in the Basque district of France. Since its adoption by the Royal Tank Regiment in 1924, the beret has become a symbol of military service across the globe. New Zealand is no exception, having adopted its first berets in 1938. The New Zealand military has a long and varied history of using this iconic headdress. In this article, we will explore the history of berets in New Zealand’s military and their significance in various corps and regiments of the New Zealand army.
The Royal Tank Regiment adopted this headdress on 5 May 1924. The decision to choose the beret was made during a dinner in 1917 when officers of the Tank Corps discussed the end of the war and what kind of uniform the corps would wear in peacetime. One of the officers suggested that the corps adopt a headdress of our allies, following the tradition of the British Army adopting some form of headdress belonging to its enemies after most wars.
Initially, the choice was between the Breton beret worn by the Tirailleurs Alpins and the Basque beret worn by the Chars d’ Assault, but neither of these patterns met with favour from the Tank Corps officers. After further consideration, they decided upon the pattern popular among English girls’ schools. Many girls were sent a letter explaining the situation, and many berets of various colours were received in reply. Eventually, the black beret was authorised after a stern contest with the War Office.
Berets were first used as a headdress in New Zealand in 1938 when new uniforms for the Territorial forces were introduced, including a black beret for motorcyclists of the Light Machine Gun Platoons and dispatch riders.[1]
Motorcyclists discontinued the black beret in February 1942 when the NZ Tank Brigade was granted permission to use it as its official headdress.[2]
On 17 February 1942, 2 NZ Tank Battalion Routine Orders posted the following notice,
“H.M the King as Colonel in Chief, Royal Tank Regiment, has signified his informal approval to an alliance between this Bde and the Royal Tank Regiment”. The ONLY personnel now authorised to wear black berets and tank patch are Army Tank Bn personnel with the sole exception of AFV School instructors only.[3]
Within the 2nd New Zealand Expeditionary Force (2NZEF), The Divisional Cavalry in Egypt was the first to adopt the black beret. Later on, black berets were issued to most of the 4th New Zealand Armoured Brigade personnel in November 1942. A year later, soldiers serving in the 22 Battalion in Italy were issued a khaki beret to replace their field service cap.
4th NZ NZ Armoured Brigade Black Beret. Lee Hawkes Collection.
22 Battalion Khaki Beret. Lee Hawkes Collection
In the years following World War II, the New Zealand Army expanded the use of berets to various units. The Royal New Zealand Army Nursing Service (RNZANS) was authorised to wear a light grey beret in 1946, and the Women’s Auxiliary Army Corps (WAAC) was permitted to wear the khaki beret. However, the reintroduction of the traditional lemon squeezer as the official headdress of the New Zealand Army in February 1949 marked the end of the widespread use of berets by the NZ Army, with only the RNZAC, NZWRAC, and RNZANS authorised to use the beret as their headdress.
RNZAC Black Beret. Lee Hawkes Collection
RNZNC Beret. Lee Hawkes Collection
However, Dress Regulations updated in October 1952 permitted the wear of blue berets by Regular Physical Training Instructors and by officers when wearing Uniform, Blue, No 1.[4]
When Kayforce, the New Zealand military contribution to the Korean War, was mobilised, the khaki beret was reintroduced as the standard headdress for all of Kayforce. However, RNZAC personnel on secondment to British armoured units in Korea continued to wear the black beret. The khaki beret remained the headdress for Kayforce personnel until their withdrawal from Korea in 1955. Initial issues to Kayforce were from existing New Zealand Stocks, with an additional 10000 to provide adequate stocks for replacement and issue to Kayforce and NZWAC purchased from the United Kingdom in 1952.[5]
Kayforce Khaki Beret. Lee Hawkes Collection
In 1954, the New Zealand Army Board decided to replace the existing khaki uniform of the New Zealand Women’s Royal Army Corps (NZWRAC) with a new uniform of tartan green with black accessories. The new NZWRAC uniform included a tartan green beret, which was authorised for wear on informal occasions. This change in uniform and the beret helped distinguish the NZWRAC from other units and symbolised their unique role within the army. The tartan green beret became an iconic part of the NZWRAC uniform and was worn with pride by its members.
In 1954, the Cap Battledress (Cap BD), known as the Ski Cap, was introduced as the official army headdress in New Zealand to replace the lemon squeezer hat.[6] However, this type of hat was not popular among the troops, particularly those in tropical climates. Despite the dissatisfaction, the Ski Cap remained the standard headdress until it was withdrawn from service in 1965.
In 1955, the New Zealand Special Air Service was formed, and they adopted the British airborne maroon beret as their official headgear. The adoption of the maroon beret by the NZSAS was a significant moment in the history of the New Zealand military. It reflected not only the elite status of the NZSAS but also the close relationship between New Zealand and the United Kingdom. In May 1955, an initial purchase was made to cover the issue of the maroon berets to selected personnel, as well as wastage and turnover, with the possibility of an increase in the size of the NZSAS. The purchase included 600 maroon berets, 500 anodised aluminium SAS badges, 60 embroidered SAS badges, and 60 sets of SAS collar badges. This move signalled a new era within the New Zealand military, and the maroon beret symbolised the high standards and specialised training of the NZSAS.[7] Despite the British SAS adopting a beige sand-coloured beret in 1956 and several opportunities to change, the NZSAS retained the maroon beret until 1986.
NZSAS Narron Beret. Lee Hawkes Collection
In 1958, a review of beret stock in the New Zealand Army revealed that 3000 new and partially worn khaki berets were sitting idle in Ordnance stocks. The idea of utilising them as part of the No2 Other Ranks Service dress was considered. However, after some discussion by the Army Dress Committee, it was decided that the khaki beret did not match the No2 Other Ranks Service dress, and a Cap Service Dress was provided instead.[8]
Following the reactivation of 16 Field Regiment (16 Fd Regt) after its service in Kayforce, there was a desire to acknowledge the regiment’s service in Korea. In 1960, it was proposed by the headquarters of the regiment to adopt the stock of 3000 khaki berets to maintain the traditions of the original regiment and for their suitability in appearance.[9] However, the Chief of General Staff (CGS), Major General C.E. Weir, was focused on standardising and simplifying army dress and did not support the proposal. He wanted to eliminate multifarious kit and keep the headdress for the army as the Cap BD for walking out and a jungle hat for field service, with no other variations permitted. As a result, the application to wear khaki berets by 16 Fd Regt was declined, and they were asked to propose another way to commemorate their association with Korea.[10]
In Malaya, the 2nd New Zealand Regiment (2NZ Regt) surveyed the suitability of the Cap BD as a headdress for the tropics and found that berets would be more suitable. In October 1960, 2 NZ Regt requested 50 berets of different sizes and styles to test their suitability as a tropical headdress.[11] Concurrently, the Army Dress Committee agreed in principle that berets would replace the Cap BD as the army’s everyday headdress. In March 1961, it was suggested that a scarlet beret would be a suitable colour for the Infantry beret.[12]
The Army Dress Committee reopened the discussion on berets in its 16 June 1961 meeting and recommended that Khaki berets be issued to all corps without berets to replace Caps BD. However, at the 15 June 1961 Infantry Conference, it was pointed out that if berets were to be introduced, the Infantry colour should not be scarlet but a Dark Green.[13]
The Director of the Royal New Zealand Artillery (DRNZA) joined the conversation on 3 July 1961, stating that if the NZ Army adopted berets, the RNZA should adopt the distinctive style of headdress worn by other members of the Royal Regiment, such as the Royal Artillery (RS), Royal Canadian Artillery (RCA), and Royal Australian Artillery (RAA), and adopt a blue beret.[14]
Up to this stage, the colours of berets, if adopted, had not formally been discussed as it was assumed that existing stocks of khaki berets would be utilised alongside the existing berets worn by them.
The QMG was concerned about the shortage of khaki berets in stock, as only 6000 were available. As a result, there were not enough berets to equip the entire army or even to dye some to meet the needs of coloured berets for the Infantry and Artillery. In response to the Infantry’s desire for a dark green beret, the QMG expressed confusion and suggested that red was the traditional Infantry colour. The QMG also commented that they could not understand why the Infantry would want to adopt a dark green beret, making them appear like members of the Women’s Royal Army Corps (WRAC) or the Dental Corps.[16]
The Director of Infantry quickly replied that although red was the traditional Infantry colour, it was not traditional for Infantry to wear red berets. British Infantry, for example, wore an assortment of berets (of different colours) and bonnets, with the majority of British infantry regiments wearing berets of dark blue. Although Dark Green had been decided as the preferred Infantry colour, members of the Royal New Zealand Infantry did not wish to be confused with the NZWRAC or Dental Corps and the rifle green beret, as worn by the 3rd Green Jackets with whom the NZ Regt was in an alliance, was the preferred colour for the Infantry beret.[17]
On 17 August 1961, the Dress Committee reconvened and approved using coloured berets to represent Corps distinctions. The committee instructed the secretary to consult with the Corps’ Directors to determine their preferred colours based on the British Colour Council Dictionary of Standards. The type of headband, whether it was to be black or brown, was also to be specified.[18]
Reconvening on 14 November 1961, the Army Dress Committee examined the Corp’s preferences, but due to the DGMG dissenting on the proposed Rifle Green for the NZ Regt failed to reach an agreement. However, after further discussion with the Director Infantry on 16 November, the committee agreed to recommend the adopting of the following colours per the preferences of the various corps.[19]
Corps
Colour (BCC designation)
Headband
RNZA
Blue (Purple Navy – BCC192)
Black
RNZE
Blue (Purple Navy – BCC192)
Black
RNZ Sigs
Blue (Purple Navy – BCC192)
Black
RNZASC
Blue (Purple Navy – BCC192)
Black
RNZAOC
Blue (Purple Navy – BCC192)
Black
RNZEME
Blue (Purple Navy – BCC192)
Black
RNZDC
Blue (Purple Navy – BCC192)
Black
RF CADETS
Blue (Purple Navy – BCC192)
Black
RNZChD
Blue (Purple Navy – BCC192)
Black
RNZAC
Black (Jet Black – BCC 220)
Black
NZ Regt
Green (Rifle Green – BCC 27)
Black
NZSAS
Maroon (Maroon – BCC 39)
Black
RNZAMC
Dull Cherry (Ruby – BCC 38)
Black
RNZ Pro
Blue (Royal Blue – BCC 197)
Black
NZAEC
Khaki (Khaki – BCC 72)
Brown
RNZNC
Grey (Grebe – BCC 82)
Black
NZWRAC
Green (Tartan Green – BCC 26)
Black
NZ Regt/ RNZIR Rifle Green Beret (2/1 Badge and backing). Lee Hawkes Collection
In September 1962, the Army Dress Committee met again and agreed that the recommendations made for coloured berets on 16 November 1961 should be cancelled and that the NZ Army should adopt a standard green beret for all corps except those whom Dress Regs already authorise to wear berets in other colours, i.e., Black (RNZAC), Maroon (NZSAS), Grey (RNZNC)and Green (NZWRAC). In support of this proposal, the justification was.
The requirement for Corps distinctions in the form of headdress has diminished considerably with the introduction of shoulder titles.
Green tones well with current and proposed Army uniforms and is ideal for training activities.
Introducing berets in all the colours previously agreed upon would create an unnecessary provisioning problem.[20][21]
The discussion on berets continued into 1963 with the decision made to retain the existing Black (RNZAC), Maroon (NZSAS), Grey (RNZNC)and Green (NZWRAC) but introduce blue berets for all other corps, including the Royal New Zealand Army Medic Corps (RNZAMC), NZ Provost and the New Zealand Army Education Corps (NZAEC) who initially requested Ruby, Royal Blue and Khaki berets.
By October 1964, sufficient stock was received, the policy surrounding the issue of Berets and the withdrawal of the Cap BD was finalised, and the Instruction for the distribution of Berets was released in February 1965.[22]
NZ Regt/ RNZIR Rifle Green Beret (2/1 Badge and backing). Lee Hawkes CollectionNZ Regt/ RNZIR Rifle Green Beret (2/1 Badge and backing). Lee Hawkes CollectionRNZASC Blue Beret. Lee Hawkes CollectionRNZA Blue Beret. Lee Hawkes Collection
New Zealand Army Air Corps
In 1963, the New Zealand Army Air Corps (NZAAC) was established, and it became affiliated with the UK Army Air Corps on 6 March 1964. Major General J.H. Mogg, the Colonel Commandant of the Army Air Corps, granted permission for the NZAAC to don the Army Air Corps Light Blue beret and AAC badges.[23]
NZACC Light Blue Beret. Lee Hawkes Collection
Regular Force Cadets
In July 1972, a submission was made to the Army Dress Committee to introduce scarlet Berets (BCC 209 – Post Office red) as the authorised headdress for Regular Force Cadets instead of the blue berets worn since 1965. The proposal represented an extension of the present colour distinction of RF Cadets as evidenced in lanyards, chevrons, badges of rank and shoulder titles. [24]
Regular Force Cadet School Beret. Lee Hawkes Collection
Redesign of Beret
As a result of questions raised at the 29 November 1983 Army Dress Committee meeting on the design of berets, a study was initiated to be undertaken by the Deputy Director of Ordnance Services and by Army R&D to examine standard samples of berets produced by Hills Hats for the Australian and Singaporean Armies to see if one was of a better design with less cloth in the crown than currently on issue in the NZ Army.[25] This study resulted in the introduced a redesigned beret with less cloth in the crown and a cloth headband instead of the traditional leather headband.
Royal New Zealand Military Police
Following the 1981 rebranding of the Royal NZ Provost Corps to the Corps of Royal New Zealand Military Police (RNZMP), a request for a distinctive RNZMP beret in the corps colour of Royal Blue was submitted to the Army Dress Committee in November 1983.[26] This submission was approved, and by the end of 1984, all RF and most TF members of the RNZMP were wearing the new royal Blue beret.[27] As a result of a 1986 CGS directive for the RNZMP to replace their blue regimental belt because of its similarity with the NZSAS belt, the RNZMP director raised a submission to introduce a red belt and beret. Opinion on introducing a red belt and beret for the RNZMP was evenly divided, principally because of the clash with the RF Cadet school belt and beret.[28] This submission for the RNZMP to wear a red beret and belt was rejected by CGS, and the use of the royal blue beret remained extant.[29]
RNZMP Beret. Lee Hawkes Collection
Comparison between RNZMP Beret (left) and Standard Blue Beret (right). Lee Hawkes Collection
Royal New Zealand Chaplains Department
The Army Dress Committee received a proposal on 31 August 1984 regarding the possibility of Royal New Zealand Chaplains Department (RNZChD) personnel wearing a Royal Purple beret. At that time, Chaplains and fourteen other Corps wore the blue beret, and there was a desire to establish a distinctive beret that would readily identify the Chaplains and align with the colours associated with the Chaplaincy. The proposal suggested using Royal Purple (BCC219), the traditional colour of the Chaplains’ Department. It was proposed that the black leather rim of the beret would remain unchanged. This initiative aimed to complete the rebranding of the RNZChD, which had already commenced with the approval and production of the specifically designed NZ Cap Badge.[30]
However, on 27 November 1984, the recommendation to change the beret colour for the RNZChD was not approved. This decision was made due to the recent approval of a uniquely distinctive badge for the RNZChD, which was considered sufficient for identifying the Chaplains.[31]
Royal Regiment of New Zealand Artillery
On St Barbara’s Day, 4 December 1984, the Royal Regiment of New Zealand Artillery significantly changed by exchanging their blue berets for khaki ones. A departure from the tradition followed by gunners throughout the Commonwealth, who still wore blue berets. The decision to change the beret came from a feeling among gunners that, as the senior corps, they should have a distinctive headdress.
The Royal New Zealand Artillery believed that the khaki beret had already established a singular tradition since 1940 when 2NZEF wore it during World War II and by Kayforce in the Korean War. 16 Fd Reg, RNZA, was the principal army element of Kayforce, and the modern New Zealand gunners claimed the exclusive right to wear the khaki beret due to their association with this regiment.[32]
RNZA Khaki Beret. Lee Hawkes Collection
New Zealand Special Air Service
Following at least two ‘show of hands’ votes by all available members of 1 NZSAS Group, with some resistance to change on historical principles by some unit members, a submission to change the colour of the beret to ‘sand’ was forwarded to the Army Dress Committee 24 May 1985 by the CO 1 NZSAS Group. Supported by the NZ SAS Colonel Commandant, Colonel Frank Rennie, the proposal was to remain consistent with the Australian SASR and UK 22 SAS and change the NZSAS beret colour from maroon to sand. While generally supported by the Army Dress Committee, there were reservations over the possible similarity in colour (should they change) with the new RNZA beret and over the fact that NZSAS, since its formation in the 1950s, had always had a maroon beret and it now considered a uniquely NZ item of dress. The chairman recommended the colour change to the CGS, noting the committee’s reservations.[33]
Concurring with the committee’s reservations, the CGS Major General John Mace did not initially support the change proposal. An original troop commander in 1955 and a squadron commander in 1960-62 and 1965-66. CGS counted that the proposed beret was too similar to the new RNZA beret and that while “the change might serve a purpose overseas, the Gp are permanently NZ based. There is historical and traditional significance in the red beret for NZSAS. The only development that would change my mind would be the finalisation of an airborne element for the NZ Army or a request signed by all serving members of the Gp.”
Taking the proposal back to the unit, the CO 1 NZSAS GP asked the unit members to vote in writing on whether or not they supported the change of beret colour. Cognisant that there were those within the unit who supported the change and those that favoured the traditional status quo. The CO asked the unit to consider the change based on the following considerations.
All para, quasi-para or airborne forces, including the Australian female parachute packers, appear to wear the maroon beret.
CGS had requested the preparation of a proposal to discuss the formation of an NZ airborne/para-trained force. This proposal would issue them a maroon beret once para qualified.
3 RAR had recently been issued the maroon beret.
The sand beret and RNZA beret are similar in colour but easily distinguishable. The badge would be the current embroidered badge which would distinguish the NS SAS from the SASR, which used a metal badge.[34]
In a vote undertaken by all badged serving members of the unit in which they indicated if they previously supported the change and if they now supported the change, the vote was unanimous in support of the change of beret colour. Eleven personnel who had previously not supported the change now supported the proposal.[35] On 24 January 1986, CGS authorised the NZSAS to wear the sand-coloured beret.[36]
NZSAS Sand Beret. Lee Hawkes Collection
Royal New Zealand Corps of Signals
At the Royal New Zealand Corps of Signals (RNZSigs) September 1986 Triennial Conference at Hopuhopu Camp, seventy RNZ Sigs Officers and Warrant Officers displayed enthusiasm for a change of beret colour and indicated that the new colour they preferred was Rifle Green. The reasoning for this choice of beret colour was based on the RNZSigs corps colours, representing the three media of communications of air, land and sea as represented on the Corps stable belt,
Dark Blue (the sea) – Royal Blue (BCC 197) (worn by RNZMP).
Green (the land) – Rifle Green (BCC 27)
Light Blue (the air) – Spectrum Blue (BCC 86)
A proposal requesting authority for RNZ Sigs pers to wear a Rifle Green beret was submitted to the Army Dress Committee on 29 September 1986.[37]
The recommendation was that the RNZSigs wear a rifle green beret because:
it would be a distinctive corps headdress
all other ‘teeth’ arms less RNZE have a distinctive beret
the colour is traditionally a ‘Signals’ colour
Although D Inf & SAS considered the colour too similar to that worn by RNZIR, most of the Dress Committee supported the change at the 3 November meeting of the Army Dress Committee.[38] Notification of the CGS approval of the RNZSigs beret was noted in the 12 May 1987 minutes of the Army Dress Committee.[39]
RNZSigs Beret. Lee Hawkes Collection
New Zealand Intelligence Corps
The New Zealand Intelligence Corps (NZIC) was initially formed as part of the Territorial Force in January 1942 but was disbanded in 1947 as part of the post-war reorganisation. On 15 March 1987, it was re-established as a Regular Force Corps and named the New Zealand Army Intelligence Corps, which later reverted to its original title. Prior to the formation of the NZIC, individuals posted to intelligence positions unofficially wore the British Army Intelligence Corps Cypress Green Beret. When the NZIC was re-established in 1987, the beret was adopted as the official headdress of the NZIC.
New Zealand Intelligence Corps Cypress Green Beret. Lee Hawkes Collection.
One Army Beret
The New Zealand Army boldly moved on 16 August 1999 when CGS Major General Maurice Dodson issued a directive to adopt a “one army” beret. The directive aimed to create a sense of unity and pride among all soldiers and to simplify the number of coloured berets in the NZ Army. This resulted in the rifle green beret, previously reserved for the RNZSigs, becoming the standard beret for all officers and soldiers, except for the NZSAS, who retained their sand beret.
However, the transition to the “one army” beret was met with resistance, with many officers, soldiers, and veterans opposing the change. They were attached to their former beret colours and saw the change as unnecessary. This dissatisfaction was mirrored in 2001 when the United States Army moved to a “one army” beret for all soldiers, highlighting the powerful effect that symbols such as coloured berets can have on morale and unit pride. The NZ Army “one army” beret has endured despite the initial resistance. The New Zealand Cadet Coprs continued to wear the Blue Beret.
One Army Beret with QAMR Badge. Lee Hawkes Collection
Notes
“Clothing – Head Dress – Berets: Povision.” Archives New Zealand No R17187783 (1952 -1965).
“Clothing: New Zealand Regular Forces: Scale of Issue.” Archives New Zealand No R17187790 (1950 – 1957).
“Conferences – Nedw Zealand Army Dress Committee.” Archives New Zealand No R17188110 (1962-67).
“Conferences – New Zealand Army Dress Committee.” Archives New Zealand No R9753141 (1970-73).
“Conferences – Policy and General – NZ Army Dress Committee 1984.” Archives New Zealand No R17311893 (1984).
“Conferences – Policy and General – NZ Army Dress Committee 1985-86.” Archives New Zealand No R17311895 (1985 – 1986).
“Conferences – Policy and General – NZ Army Dress Committee 1986-87.” Archives New Zealand No R17311897 (1986 – 1987).
“New Army Uniforms and Modern Military Vehicles for Dominion Forces.” New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23033, , 10 May 1938.
“New Zealand Army Instruction 164/1942.”(10 January 1942).
“St Barbaras Day.” The Press, 5 December 1984.
Thomas, Malcolm, and Cliff Lord. New Zealand Army Distinguishing Patches, 1911-1991. Wellington, N.Z. : M. Thomas and C. Lord, 1995, 1995. Bibliographies, Non-fiction.
“Wearing of Black Beret & Tank Patch.” 2 NZ Tank Battalion R.O. 26/1943 (17 February 1942).
[1] “New Army Uniforms and Modern Military Vehicles for Dominion Forces,” New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23033, , 10 May 1938.
[2] “New Zealand Army Instruction 164/1942,”(1942).
[3] “Wearing of Black Beret & Tank Patch,” 2 NZ Tank Battalion R.O. 26/1943 (1942).
[4] Army 213/7/4/Q/Org Revised Appendix ‘M’ Clothing Scales Dated 3 October 1952. “Clothing: New Zealand Regular Forces: Scale of Issue,” Archives New Zealand No R17187790 (1950 – 1957).
[5] Application for Financial Authority, Khaki Berets 14 November 1952. “Clothing – Head Dress – Berets: Povision,” Archives New Zealand No R17187783 (1952 -1965).
[6] Malcolm Thomas and Cliff Lord, New Zealand Army Distinguishing Patches, 1911-1991 (Wellington, N.Z. : M. Thomas and C. Lord, 1995, 1995), Bibliographies, Non-fiction, 128-29.
[7] Army 213/6/7/Q Application for Financial Authority, Berets for Special Air Squadron 31 May 1955.Ibid.
[8] Minutes of the 17 meeting of the Army Dress Committee, held at Army HQ on 9 October 1958.Ibid.
[9] Army 213/6/7/Arty Headdress – 16 Fd Regt 30 March 1960. Ibid.
[18] Minutes of the 29th meeting of the Army Dress Committee held at Army HQ 17 August 1961. Ibid.
[19] Minutes of the 32nd meeting of the Army Dress Committee held at Army HQ 16 November 1961. Ibid.
[20] Minutes of the 37th meeting of the Army Dress Committee at Army HQ on 12 Sept 1962. “Conferences – Nedw Zealand Army Dress Committee,” Archives New Zealand No R17188110 (1962-67).
[21] Minutes of the 37th meeting of the Army Dress Committee held at Army HQ 13 September 1962. “Clothing – Head Dress – Berets: Povision.”
[23] NZACC Submission 9/84 to Army Dress Committee 7 August 1984. “Conferences – Policy and General – NZ Army Dress Committee 1984,” Archives New Zealand No R17311893 (1984).
[24] NC 8/2/2/ADC HQ Home Command Amendment to Army Clothing Scales Scarlet Berets: RF Cadets 21 July 1972. “Conferences – New Zealand Army Dress Committee,” Archives New Zealand No R9753141 (1970-73).
[25] Minutes of the Army Dress Committee, 29 November 1983. “Conferences – Policy and General – NZ Army Dress Committee 1985-86,” Archives New Zealand No R17311895 (1985 – 1986).
[26] Minutes of the Army Dress Committee, 29 November 1983. Ibid.
[27] RNZMP Submission 3/87 to Army Dress Committee 30 September 1986. “Conferences – Policy and General – NZ Army Dress Committee 1986-87,” Archives New Zealand No R17311897 (1986 – 1987).
[28] Minutes of the Army Dress Committee 3 November 1986. Ibid.
[29] RNZMP submission 3/87 to Army Dress Committee 30 September 1986.Ibid.
[30] RNZChD submission 11/84 to Army Dress Committee 31 August 1984. “Conferences – Policy and General – NZ Army Dress Committee 1984.”
[31] Minutes of the Army Dress Committee 27 November 1984. Ibid.
[32] “St Barbaras Day,” The Press, 5 December 1984.
[33] Minutes of the Army Dress Committee, 24 May 1985. “Conferences – Policy and General – NZ Army Dress Committee 1985-86.”
[34] NZSAS 5252 Change of Colour for NZSAS Beret 27 September 1985. Ibid.
[35] Correspondence CO SAS to DInf &SAS 15 December 1985.Ibid.
[36] Army 220/5/103 DRESS-NZSAS PERS 24 January 1986. Ibid.
[37] Signals Directorate 1000/1 Submission to Army Dress Committee 29 September 1986. “Conferences – Policy and General – NZ Army Dress Committee 1986-87.”
[38] Minutes of the Army Dress Committee 3 November 1986. Ibid.
[39] Minutes of the Army Dress Committee, 12 May 1987. Ibid.
The New Zealand (NZ) Army entered the 1950s with combat clothing based on the World War Two Battle Dress (BD) and Khaki Drill (KD) uniforms. Both these uniform types had limitations, such as the BDs being too heavy for wear in summer, tropical and jungle climates but too lightweight for the temperate NZ Climate. Combat operations in Southeast Asia from 1955 had further highlighted the inadequacy of NZ combat clothing, leading to NZ soldiers equipped with an eclectic range of United Kingdom (UK), Australian and NZ-manufactured variants throughout the 1950s and 60s. To achieve a measure of sustainability and self-sufficiency when purchasing uniforms, NZ undertook extensive research and development on tropical combat uniforms during the 1960s. However, by the early 1970s, the requirement for temperate climate uniform became a priority leading to the adoption of the UK 1968 Pattern Disruptive Pattern Material (DPM) combat uniform. As the NZ Army transitioned from its World War Two legacy combat clothing to the most modern combat uniforms available, the transition was never complete, with elements of the older combat clothing remaining in service to be mixed and matched with the latest items as they were introduced. This article provides an overview of the NZ Army’s combat clothing transition from 1955 to the 1980s and how the requirements and types of combat clothing evolved.
A soldier hands out uniforms and bags to the first batch of 18-year-old army trainees. Photograph taken 29 June 1950 by an Evening Post staff photographer.Ref: 114/164/31-F. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand. /records/23010004
Following World War Two, with Ordnance Stores well stocked and NZ industry well positioned to support any surge in demand, the NZ army retained the familiar combination of woollen serge Battle Dress (BD) and KD and Demin range of uniforms that had served it well during the war years. However, by 1955 the high tempo of training required to maintain a division supported by Compulsory Military Training (CMT), operations in Korea, and a likely commitment to ongoing operations in Southeast Asia highlighted deficiencies of the current ranger of uniforms. While the BD uniforms remained suitable for use in temperate and colder climates, the Army Clothing Committee identified a requirement to develop a summer training dress for use in NZ that would also be satisfactory for jungle operations. In response to the Army Dress Committee, Captain J.A Dixie of the Defence Scientific Corps of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) provided a comprehensive report on Tropical Clothing. Reviewing World War Two and post-war scientific research on the problem of tropical clothing by the United States and Commonwealth, Dixie’s report provided the principles that guided the selection of a suitable NZ Army range of tropical uniforms and equipment.[1]
Following the deployment of the NZ Special Air Service (NZSAS) Squadron to Malaya in November 1955, NZ felt obliged to prepare NZ’s forces for service in Southeast Asia. Based on the equipping of the NZSAS from British theatre stocks, the assumption was that initial stocks of tropical clothing for any future deployment would be available from British theatre stocks, with NZ-manufactured tropical uniforms providing long-term sustainment. Therefore, in December 1955, the Army Board approved the transition of uniforms with BDs retained as winter dress in NZ, and KDs phased out in favour of uniforms manufactured in Drill Green (DG) for summer and working dress. The 1955 orders of dress were.
The transition to the new range of DG clothing was in the following sequence:
Waste out stock of KD garments by CMT issues, with the first issue to CMT recruits by 1959, with the process completed by 1960.
For other uses, convert stocks of KD material (not yet made up into uniforms) and waste out.
Undertake all further uniform manufacture (except BD and Greatcoats) in DG.
Build up a working reserve sufficient to equip 10,000 soldiers.[2]
NZ’s DG uniform pattern was the 1950 Pattern British Jungle Green (JG) uniform. The 1950 pattern uniform consisted of shirt and trousers made from a green-coloured cotton drill material. Fitted with a cross waist belt fastened by adjustable buckles on each side designed to account for the wearer losing weight in hot climates, the trouser style was known as ‘Gurkha pants.’ The trousers included a twin pleated front, pockets on each hip, twin rear pockets and a map pocket on the left leg.[3]
Jungle greens and Jungle boots as worn by New Zealand Forces in Malaya from 1955. NZ National Library Ref: EP/1956/0031-F
Due to the financial outlay required to provide a measure of fiscal control over future uniform changes, on 9 April 1956, Cabinet decided that “No new items in uniform scales of officers and other ranks are to be introduced or material changes therein made without the prior approval of the Minister of Defence in concurrence with the Minister of Finance to the finance involved.”[4]
Granted approval on 2 August 1958 and deployed to Malaya in October 1957, the 1st Battalion, The NZ Regiment (1 NZ Regt), was NZ’s first regular Infantry battalion and NZ’s land commitment to the Commonwealth’s Far East Land Forces (FARELF). The initial scaling of 1 NZ Regt was from NZ stocks with equipment, including clothing (four sets of NZ DGs), weapons and eighty-nine vehicles and trailers. However, with the approval of the Ministers of Defence and Finance, £59000 (NZD 3,359,047.60 in 2022) was expended to procure additional theatre-specific items not held in the NZ inventory from British theatre stocks in Malaya.[5] Given the distance involved and the complications of holding sufficient clothing stocks to cover all size ranges, it was decided in September 1957 that NZ-specific uniform items would be maintained from NZ, with the UK supplying and maintaining items on the FARELF clothing scales, managed under a capitation system where NZ reimbursed the UK for the equipment provided.[6] This arrangement was extended to include Australian equipment provided to the NZ Forces and remained in place until 1974. The initial items maintained by NZ with 1 NZ Regt provided with stock to allow 100% replacement were:
Still, a novel item under development as part of the NZ Army inventory, the evaluation and development of the NZ DG uniforms was ongoing. One of the first large-scale user trials in NZ was on Jungle Course No1 at Burnham Camp from 8 September to 31 October 1958. Feedback from Course participants was positive, with observations that DG items were satisfactory for NZ’s temperate conditions.[7] Instructions for distributing DG Uniforms were issued in October 1958, with three sets of KD approved for exchange with three sets of DGs for Regular Force (RF) Officers and Other Ranks.[8]
As the introduction of the DG uniform continued, limitations with the current material and cut of the DG Uniforms were highlighted. Although suitable for training for most conditions found in NZ, it was not suitable for operations in the tropical conditions of Malaya. Under an existing Commonwealth agreement, Australia took the lead in researching a range of tropical clothing and equipment. As Australian research and development continued, NZ continued to rely on the UK and Australia to provide tropical clothing while remaining focused on developing a range of clothing suitable for NZ’s temperate climate and conditions.[9]
The NZ Army Chief of General Staff (CGS) Clothing Conference in February 1960 prompted significant work in developing revised uniform scales and dress orders. A policy statement was issued in November 1960 to remove misunderstandings regarding the proposals under consideration and the obligatory and optional dress orders, with the 1960 orders of dress within NZ being:
The 1960 policy statement on orders of dress was aspirational in that it had identified additions to the winter and summer clothing scales. Driven by the realisation that harsh weather and inadequate clothing led to considerable loss of training time, investigations had identified that lighter materials with water-repellent and quick-drying qualities were available, leading to a proposed new line of uniforms and equipment superior to the current BDs and greatcoats. The proposed uniform and equipment were based on winter and summer uniforms.
The winter training uniform for RF and Territorial Force (TF) all ranks was to consist of Battledress supplemented by added items for introduction from 1962, including
Woollen shirt
Pullover with drawstring neck
Parka
Waterproof over trousers.
Gaiters
The summer training uniform for all RF and TF all ranks was to consist of the following:
Replacement of existing stocks of Summer Drill trousers with a new trouser pattern based on the UK 1960 Pattern Jungle Green trousers. The 1960 pattern trousers were identical to the 1952 Patten but had the addition of belt loops.
Replace the DG Shirt with the woollen shirt used in the winter dress.[10]
Troops posted to FARELF were issued in NZ with the standard scales supplemented by items needed for operational training in NZ. Before embarkation, NZ issue items not needed in the FARELF theatre were withdrawn and placed into base kit storage until the soldiers returned from overseas. On arrival in the FARELF theatre, additional items, including lightweight tropical and combat clothing, were issued from UK Stocks.[11]
In addition to clothing items, boots and bivouac equipment designed to provide soldiers with maximum protection against the weather during field training were included in the initial trials from July 1961.[12] The July 1961 trial provided a proof of concept that led to 1962 approval by the Ministers of Defence and Finance of a new range of basic clothing and clothing scales for the army to meet existing requirements with new scales approved for inclusion in NZ Army Routine and Standing Orders (R&SO) Volume 1 on 13 July 1962.[13][14] The formalisation of this scale was concurrent with the Ministers of Defence and Finance jointly approving the expenditure of £38,657.14.0 (NZD 1,948,037.31 in 2022) to enable payment to be made to GHQ FARELF for items of clothing issued by the UK to the NZ battalions in Malaya since 1957. Approval of further updates of the NZ clothing scales, including the NZ FARELF scale, followed in September 1963.[15]
By July 1964, with a continuing commitment to the Commonwealth FARELF in Malaysia and a growing commitment to the conflict in South Vietnam, the NZ Army convened a special committee to:
Define the policy governing all items of clothing and personal equipment for male members of the NZ Army in peace and war, in NZ and overseas.
Calculate the immediate and long-term requirements to equip the army and provide for maintenance.
Prioritise and select essential and suitable items for use in Southeast Asia and under conditions found in NZ.
Acknowledge that clothing and equipment needed to be specifically developed for both NZ and Southeast Asia.
Review the NZ Army’s present holdings to determine what was suitable for either permanent or interim use in SE Asia.
Base future scales on those already used within NZ and by 1 RNZIR in Malaysia.
Recommend maintenance stock levels based on current usage rates experienced by 1 RNZIR in Malaysia.
The clothing and personal equipment policy statement was comprehensive and logical, with sound recommendations that identified items of clothing and equipment for use by the NZ Army at home and overseas, with recommendations for new scales, stock and maintenance levels. Approved in principle by Army Headquarters, the clothing and personal equipment policy statement was submitted to the Ministry of Defence for approval in November 1964.[16] Following further analysis by the Ministry of Defence, it was recommended on 15 June 1965 that The Minister of Defence and Minster of Finance approve the new scales of clothing and personnel equipment for the NZ Army based on the expenditure of £1,425,00 ($6,698,087.41 in 2022) over the financial years 1965/66, 1966/67 and 1967/68.[17]
Despite the considerable financial commitment required, following the joint approval of the Ministers of Defence and Finance, on 21 March 1966, Cabinet approved in principle expenditure to allow the provision of clothing and personal equipment for the NZ Army’s future requirements over the next three fiscal years:
£1,425,00 ($66,980,874.05 in 2022) over the budget year 1965/66,
£430,000 ($19,569,115.53 in 2022) for the budget year 1966/67.
£430,000 (18,385,342.62 in 2022) for the budget year 1967/68.[18]
Approved by Cabinet, the clothing and personal equipment programme was a three-year programme to issue to troops and build up stocks over the years 1967 -1969 and was to:
Provide an initial issue to the Field Force of ten thousand soldiers, plus a three-month reserve stock at war wastage rates for immediate maintenance in the overseas theatre.
Hold sufficient materials and components to allow manufacturers six months of supply at war rates.
Additional stock of training clothing to meet needs in NZ.
With the 1961 trials identifying items for training in NZ, experience gained in Malaysia and later South Vietnam saw additional items of tropical combat clothing added to the clothing scales.
The Pullover with a drawstring neck was trialled in 1961 and, although undergoing minor modifications, was ready for introduction into service by March 1964.[19] Based on the British 1960 Pattern tropical shirt and trousers, the NZ-manufactured variants were the base of NZ’s summer and tropical dress orders. Although suitable for summer use, a shirt more suited to NZ’s temperate climate was desired, and from the three types trialled in 1961 with two types selected for further trials:
Type A 100% wool.
Type B was a wool/nylon mixture.
Introduced into servicer for a year-long trial from April 1965. 3703 type A shirts were Issued to RF personnel, excluding those posted to FARELF. The scale was one Type A Shirt Training per Officer and Soldier in exchange for one Shirt DG.[20] Thirteen Hundred of the marginally more expensive Type B Training shirt introduced for concurrent troop trials in October 1965. A revised Trial instruction was issued in December 1965, detailing the requirements for the trial, for completion by 31 August 1966, with trial reports submitted to Army HQ by 30 September 1966.[21]
Type A Shirt Training, Green, Wool/Nylon (Type A)
Type A Shirt Training, Green, Wool/Nylon (Type B)
The trial reports on both training shirts revealed faults related to the materials used, with the Type B shirt identified as an acceptable item in its current form. With a sufficient stock of the Type B shirt in circulation, trials were extended until 31 October 1966, with the Type B shirt included in the clothing scale by 1967.
As NZ’s commitment to the conflict in South Vietnam increased from mid-1964, the lack of suitable materials or shirts for use in tropical conditions became an issue. To meet the immediate needs of NZ’s overseas forces, continued reliance on the UK, with additional items provided by Australia, was necessary.
An early contribution to developing an NZ tropical combat shirt was in November 1964 when ten shirts made from a new acrylic fabric (trade name “Cashmillon”) were issued to the First Battalion of the Royal NZ Infantry Regiment (1RNZIR) in Malaysia for initial troop trials.[22] The trial NZ shirt was intended to be rot-resistant, more robust, quicker-drying, and less chilling to the body when wet, while providing warmth in cooler weather. The 1RNZIR trials were favourable, with the trial shirts preferred to the current British combat shirts and strongly recommended as a future combat shirt.[23]
New Zealand gunners in Saigon, Vietnam, being presented a garland of flowers by a woman from the Vietnamese Army, during an official welcome ceremony for the artillery unit. circa 5 August 1965. Ref: EP-Defence-NZ Army, Vietnam-01. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand. /records/22829325
By August 1965, adverse media coverage on the quality of Australian Combat Clothing of the type issued to NZ’s Vietnam Force (V Force) prompted NZ Army Headquarters to approach the United States for samples and specifications of combat clothing used by United States Forces in South Vietnam, with feedback also obtained by HQ NZ V Force from United States Forces in South Vietnam on their satisfaction with their tropical combat uniforms.[24] Feedback from the United States Military Assistance Command Vietnam (MACV) and two United States advisors with the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) identified that United States Army personnel in Vietnam were issued two sets of Tropical Combat fatigues. The United States uniform was light, comfortable and quick-drying, resistant to rot under tropical conditions, with a combat life of about twelve days. Although having an apparent short operational life, this was comparable with the Commonwealth experience with uniforms in jungle operations in Southeast Asia.[25]
The view of the NZ Army was that although the United States tropical uniform material was the best of those in use by allied armies and was supported by a continual improvement programme, prudence directed that, based on the preliminary trials of the NZ acrylic cloth by 1RNZIR, extended trials were required to be conducted.[26] With the NZ acrylic cloth being potentially superior to other cloths in use and likely to be suitable for NZ training conditions, the Army Development Section proposed that a further 300 yards of the cloth be purchased to enable further trials to be conducted.
However, feedback from the 9th Commonwealth Defence Conference and the flammability risks associated with the acrylic material led to the cessation of meaningful development of this cloth. The UK and Australia both had large stocks of drill cloth, which, although not ideal, were still suitable for use as research continued to find a replacement material. Concurrent with NZ acrylic trials, Australia was in the preliminary stages of experimenting with a cotton/nylon mixture. However, the UK and Canada were concerned with the NZ trial as the cloth had little flame resistance. Based on this feedback, NZ reviewed its requirements and requested that the DSIR and industry undertake further development of the acrylic cloth to improve its fire resistance qualities. NZ’s requirements for tropical uniform material were satisfied by purchasing bulk stocks of the same material used by the UK for tropical clothing.[27]
1 Composite Ordnance Company Officers Ex Logploy Two Linton 6-9 March 1967 Left to Right: 2LT Telfer, 2Lt Watson, 2Lt Wootton, Lt McDonald, Capt Duggan, Maj Golightly, 2Lt Jones, Lt Reid, 2Lt Bowker. All wear 1960 Pattern DG Trousers with various KD, DG and Wollen Shirts. Robert.McKie Collection
By December 1967, the NZ clothing scales and the range of clothing supplied had become complicated. Each NZ soldier was issued clothing and equipment based on the NZ Training scale. Although the NZ Training scale was based on maintaining an integrated RF and TF Field Force, a 1967 study of the training clothing scales found disparities between the combat, training and walking out uniform scales of the RF and TF. To correct and align the RF and TF scales, a two-phase programme started in 1967 to correct the scales. Phase one, initiated in 1967, began the disposal of all wartime-style garments (items from World War One and Two were still in service) and rearranging the scale issue to the National Service Training Unit (NTSU). Beginning in December 1968, NTSU and TF recruits were to be issued the same combat clothing as the RF.[28]
On selection for deployment overseas, additional items were issued as part of the emplacement scale depending on the theatre. Items not required overseas were held in the soldier’s Base kit.
NZ Troops to HQ FARELF and 1 RNZIR. NZ Troops posted to HQ FARELF and 1 RNZIR issued from the NZ FARELF Scale with items drawn from stocks supplied by the UK and NZ. The solder retained items such as the UK tropical Shirts (Flannel or Cellular) and Trousers OG on return to NZ.
Victor and Whiskey Company troops, drawn from 1RNZIR and deployed to South Vietnam. Items of the FARELF scale not required in South Vietnam were placed into base kits. Additional Australian combat clothing was issued from Australian FARELF stocks, with maintenance provided by the Australian Logistic Support Group (ALSG) in South Vietnam.
HQ V Force, 161 Battery, Med Team and other troops deployed directly from NZ. In addition to NZ items, Australian combat clothing was issued, with maintenance provided by the Australian Logistic Support Group (ALSG) in South Vietnam.
The Australian combat clothing issued to NZ troops in Vietnam consisted of two types of uniforms: Shirts and Trousers Tropical Combat (JGs) and Coat and Trousers Mans Field Combat Tropical.
The Australian JGs were modelled after the British 1950 pattern tropical uniforms and made from lightweight green fabric. The shirt was long-sleeved with two chest pockets, and the trousers had the crossover “Gurkha” style closure with buckles on the sides and fitted with a single map pocket to the left thigh.
The Australian Coat and Trousers Mans Field Combat Tropical was inspired by the United States jungle fatigues and developed over 1965/66 with the Mark 1 version introduced into Australian service by January 1967. The coat (shirt) had pockets on the upper sleeves for shell dressings and slanted breast pockets. This new uniform was soon nicknamed “pixie greens.”
Australian Coat and Trousers, Man’s, Field Combat, Tropical “Pixi Greens”
In the interests of standardisation and leveraging from the operational experience gained by the Australians in Vietnam, the NZ Army considered adopting the Australian range of combat clothing for use in tropical combat conditions and as a replacement for DG items in NZ. Combat clothing trials were initiated in January 1967, with forty sets of the Australian prototype “Pixi Greens” issued to Waiouru Camp and the 1st Battalion Depot in Burnham.[29]
As a result of the NZ “Pixi Green” trial in September 1967, the Australian design, with modifications, was accepted for use in NZ as a training dress and as a combat dress in the tropics. The modifications required included using UK-sourced DG Cloth and a slight redesign of the trousers. The final acceptability trial report completed on 31 October 1967 established the acceptability of the UK Cloth and decided on a preference between the two slightly different trouser styles; one type had elastic cuffs and cargo pockets on the front of the legs; the other type had draw-cord cuffs and cargo pockets towards the sides of the legs.[30]
User trials established that the UK-type DG material was a satisfactory material for both shirts and trousers in tropical combat conditions and suitable as a replacement for the current heavier NZ DG for summer wear in NZ. A good design for the NZ version of the “pixie greens” shirt and trousers had been achieved, with the trousers having draw-cord cuffs and cargo pockets towards the sides of the legs.[31] Following sizing trials conducted in Vietnam and NZ in 1967, it was established that the Australian size range was compatible with NZ’s needs and was adopted with nine sizes of Shirts and trousers provided.[32]
NZ Purchase Description No 106 was issued on 4 January 1968, providing the minimum requirements for manufacturing Shirt, Man’s, Drill, Green, Field Combat, Tropical 1967 Pattern, the NZ version of the Australian Coat Mans Field Combat Tropical “pixie green”.[33]
Shirt, Man’s, Drill, Green, Field Combat, Tropical 1967 Pattern
The NZ purchase description, which provided the minimum requirements for manufacturing Trousers, Men’s, Drill Green Field Combat, Tropical (1967 Patt), the NZ version of the Australian Trousers, Men’s Field Combat Tropical (Pixie), was issued on 5 February 1968.[34]
Trousers, Mens, Drill Green Field Combat, Tropical – 1967 Pattern
Although the trouser design was agreed to and was ready for introduction into service, the initial design was a compromise. In some examples, Velcro replaced all buttons and buckles in the waist area. The trials of the Velcro fastenings were not exhaustive, with further trials to evaluate the practicability of using Velcro fastenings under all conditions of tropical combat required facilitated by the dispatch of six pairs of combat tropical trousers with Velcro fastenings to the Infantry elements of NZ’s V Force in March 1968 to allow further trials.[35] With negative feedback from V Force, further development of Velcro fastenings was not continued.
Australia’s development of its tropical combat uniform was ongoing. In August 1968, user dissatisfaction with the Mark 1 version led to the development of the Mark 2 version. Including some minor design improvements, the size range of the Mark 2 versions was increased from each type having nine sizes to twelve shirt sizes and eighteen trouser sizes.[36] Development of the Australian tropical combat uniform continued until its withdrawal from service in the late1980s. Taking note of the Australian developments of the Mark 2 pattern, NZ modified its specifications and introduced the Coat, Mans, Drill Green Field Combat – 1969 Pattern with twelve different sizes into service in October 1969.[37] It remains unknown if 1969 Pattern trousers were concurrently introduced.
Comparison of FARELF Combat Clothing 1965 Left to Right: Shirts Tropical Combat, Shirt OG (UK).Indonesian Camouflage, Shirt KF, HQ FARELF Joint Services Public Relations PR/A/372/4 NZ Archived R17187760 Clothing Tropical Clothing and Personal Equipment 1955-67
As the NZ clothing and personal equipment programme authorised in 1965 was nearing completion, the NZ FARELF Clothing scale was updated in late 1969, replacing most UK and Australian-sourced items with NZ-manufactured items. However, given the scale of the NZ scale changes, it was not envisaged that NZ would not be able to support the new scale until early 1970.[38] With the British intention to withdraw east of Suez by 1971 likely to become a reality, a revaluation of Australian and NZ reliance on British logistical support was undertaken. By October 1969, Australian planning for any future Australia and NZ (ANZ) Force clothing and personal equipment was underway, with Australia aiming to assume responsibility for the whole Australian component by mid-1971.[39] NZ now had a significant clothing and personal items catalogue, although initially unfavourable to NZ maintaining its stocks in the FARELF due to inadequate NZ resources. As NZ allocated adequate resources, Australia soon warmed up to NZ’s plans. Australia eventually had no difficulty supplying NZ troops in the ANZ Force with Australian pattern clothing and personal items if NZ items were not available. To ensure the Supply of NZ items, 5 Advanced Ordnance Depot (5AOD), Singapore, under the NZ items under specially allocated catalogue numbers alongside the equivalent Australian items.[40]
The UK’s east-of-Suez departure was delayed until 1974 when, along with Australia, both nations withdrew their Singapore garrisons, leaving NZ as the only foreign force in Singapore. By the time of the UK and Australian departure in 1974, the NZ supply system had evolved into a sustainable and autonomous system, with most clothing and personal items supplied direct from NZ. However, the NZ Advance Ordnance Depot (NZOAD) in Singapore had inherited British and Australian stock lines that took time to waste out, ensuring that the NZ Force in Southeast Asia (NZFORSEA) remained equipped with a mixture of British, Australian and NZ equipment.
Further review and refinement of the NZ Army clothing scales took place in 1971 with the announcement made to
Introduce a Dacron uniform as a summer walking out and, where appropriate, working dress to replace DGs.
Replace BDs with a temperate/winter combat working/training uniform.
The Secretary of Defence agreed to the proposal to upgrade DGs and BDs to a new Combat Dress. Authority to cease any further procurement of BD Jackets followed, with existing stocks progressively disposed of. To compensate for the loss of the BD Jacket, an additional Training Jersey was authorised to be issued as a BD jacket replacement. However, pending further justification, the replacement of DGs with Dacron’s as a summer walking out/working dress did not progress. As the winding down of NZ’s commitment to the Vietnam War precluded the widespread introduction of the 1967/69 Pattern Combat uniform, in 1971, a pilot scheme was conducted by units at Papakura camp to evaluate the adequacy of the 1967/69 Pattern Combat Uniform as combat working/training uniform for use in NZ Garrison and training conditions.[41]
The Combat Clothing pilot scheme utilised 1967/69 Pattern Combat uniforms but met with mixed results. Compared to the existing DGs, the 1967/69 Pattern Combat Uniform was unpopular, with variations in colour, texture and strength found. Although a minor redesign of the trousers and remedial work to correct the variation of colours followed, it became accepted that the attempt to follow Australia’s lead in developing a tropical combat uniform had failed. With large stocks of the 1967/69 Pattern Combat uniforms in the NZ Army supply system, the pilot scheme was abandoned, and future development and procurement of the 1967/69 Pattern Combat uniform ceased.
As no suitable alternative clothing item existed, the NZ DG Shirt and Trouser had, by default, been satisfactory as an “in lieu” item for warm weather and tropical training.[42] Although inappropriate and not intended for such use, the DG Shirt and Trousers would continue as NZ’s JGs for warm weather and tropical conditions until the late 1980s. However, the requirement for a modern temperate combat uniform still existed. To identify a temperate combat uniform, the Director of Infantry and SAS (D Inf) initiated formal trials of a combat uniform designed explicitly for temperate use in August 1974. Keen to evaluate a proven uniform pattern, the D Inf requested thirty sets of UK 1968 Pattern DMP temperate climate camouflage uniforms. Up to this period, the use of camouflage uniforms by the NZ Army was rare, with camouflage uniforms used by the 3rd Division of the 2nd NZEF in the Pacific during 1943/44 and the NZSAS and the NZ Army Training Advisory Teams, who had utilised American ERDL and South Vietnamese tiger stripe pattern fatigues during the Vietnam war.
UK Pattern DMP
Twenty-Eight sets of UK 68 Pattern DPM uniforms consisting of smocks, liners, trousers, caps and hods were received in February 1975 and, following the development of evaluation criteria, were released by trial by the NZ School of Infantry and 2/1 RNZIR in March 1975.[43] The DPM uniforms issued to the School of Infantry were distributed to the School of Infantry, the TF Depot and the RF Cadet School. The sets issued to 2/1 RNZIR were issued to Alpha Company (A Coy)
As the D Inf was the sponsor for combat clothing and personal equipment, visits and feedback from units had made the incumbent D Inf aware of deficiencies in certain types and sizes of clothing. Aware that the NZ Army did not have a firm policy regarding combat clothing, D Inf sponsored a review to inform policy and guide future sponsors and provisioners of combat clothing and equipment in 1975. The review found that:
Supplies of Shirts DG were adequate, with stocks of trousers DG low, with deliveries of stocks on order slow.
With the withdrawal of the BD Blouse, the training Jersey remained a popular item of clothing.
Stocks of the Hat Utility were good, and the item remained popular.
Developing and introducing a new parka and over trousers remained an ongoing project.
An unpopular item of uniform, stocks of the 1967 and 1969 Pattern Combat Trousers were not at authorised levels, with procurement frozen until a firm policy on the future of combat clothing was determined.
Stocks of the wool/nylon training shirt were low. However, as an expensive item only scaled for RF issues, procurement was on hold until a firm policy on the future of combat clothing was determined.
BD trousers to remain as the Winter Working Dress for RF and TF and the winter walking out dress for the TF.[44]
The initial trials of the DPM uniforms concluded in August 1975 with positive results recommending the adoption of all items of the DPM uniform except for the DPM Cap. Typical feedback echoed in the evaluation reports was that the DPM uniforms were “well-designed, very comfortable uniforms far Superior to anything else in service”.[45]
In summarizing the trial reports and the suitability of the UK Temperate DPM uniform, the D Inf supported the uniform’s introduction, noting that the comparative trials were limited to the current range of unsatisfactory NZ combat clothing. Comparative trials were not possible against similar uniforms from ABCA (American, British, Canadian, Australian) Armies as the UK temperate climate DPM uniform was the only type available.
Australia had only accepted a DMP pattern for open eucalyptus terrain, with further studies pending for other terrains. The Australian policy was to provide ‘add-on ‘ garments for work in temperate climates.
Canada did not have a DPM Temperate climate uniform and had an ‘add on” policy for cold and article conditions.
The United States offered temperate combat uniforms to NZ at a competitive rate. However, these were of the Olive Green variety. The United States Forces did have tropical DPM uniforms, and if NZ considered introducing tropical DPM Uniforms in the future, these should also be included in the evaluation process.
The D Inf highlighted that no modifications to the UK DPM uniforms were required and recommended that they be introduced as is (less the DPM Cap) and that modifications should only be considered after extensive user experience.[46]
In recognition of the requirement’s urgency and dissatisfaction with current dress and clothing standards adversely affecting morale, approval to introduce the UK DPM uniforms into NZ service was granted in December 1975.[47] The procurement of the new range of temperate clothing consisting of Jackets, Hoods and Trousers made from a DMP material and quilted liners was to be implemented in three phases over five years commencing in 1977/78.
Phase 1 – 1977/78. The first phase would purchase 1000 Jackets and Hoods, 1800 Trousers and 840 Liners to provide sufficient stock for a reduced strength battalion plus two years of maintenance stocks. Phase One was also to purchase 123,974 meters of DMP material to allow the manufacture of DPM uniforms in subsequent phases.
Phase 2 – 1978/79 to 79/80. The NZ manufacture of DPM uniforms to allow.
The issue of one set to the RF component of the Filed Force and Army Schools (Strength 2800).
TF Depot Pool (800).
Annual Camp Pool (4000).
Phase 3 – 1979/80 to 80/81. The NZ manufacturer of the UK Pattern temperate DPM uniforms to allow.
The establishment of war reserve stocks (1800).
The issue of a second set to all RF personnel involved in field training (3500).
Increase the size of the Field Force training pool (1000).[48]
On introducing the temperate DPM uniform, phasing out through normal wastage of the following clothing items was planned.
Over trousers.
The current service parka and commercial lined parkas. On developing a rainproof DPM parka, the replacement of unlined parkas would follow.
BD Trousers on a diminishing basis estimated as beyond 1981[49]
The introduction of the first tranche of temperate DPM uniforms began in August 1977 with the initial purchase of made-up uniforms issued to 2/1 RNZIR and Army Schools, with additional sets manufactured In NZ using imported material. However, a change in clothing policy and delays in receiving DPM material from the UK delayed the planned distribution and establishment of loan pools.[50] By 1980, confusion over scales and entitlements and the resulting distribution stagnation was highly emotional, with formations command seeking resolution.[51]
As the temperate DPMs were progressively introduced to NZ-based units, NZ Forces in Singapore were still required to utilise the legacy JG uniforms. As both the Malaysian and Singapore Forces were introducing camouflage uniforms, the Commander of NZFORSEA considered that there would be immense psychological value in considering the issue of a tropical DPM uniform to NZFORSEA.[52] Since 1972 British Forces in Hong Kong and Brunei utilised the No.9: Tropical Combat Dress, which had replaced the 1950 pattern OG and JG tropical uniforms. In 1980 NZFORSEA submitted a proposal to purchase the UK lightweight DMP material by utilising the UK specification tailored locally to meet the tropical DPM uniform requirements of NZFORSEA.[53]
After considering the NZFORSEA proposal, the NZ Army decided not to approve the NZFORSEA proposal. NZ Forces were to continue using the current JG tropical uniforms range. In justifying the decision, the following reasons were provided.
ABCA studies demonstrated that faded JG drill provided the most effective negative response to IR sources.
The primary reason for introducing DMP clothing into NZ service was warmth, with the psychological value ensuring its acceptance.
The operational effectiveness of DPM uniforms remained questionable.[54]
The upgrading of NZ Army combat clothing from 1955 to 1980 was just one of several clothing and equipment projects intended to keep the army equipped with a high standard of modern equipment compatible with its peers. The practice of adopting off-the-shelf clothing and equipment from allied nations continued, with, where possible, NZ industry manufacturing the foreign patterns, thus providing a measure of self-sufficiency. From 1967 considerable effort was made to develop the Australian Pixie Greens into an NZ tropical combat uniform. The resulting items were unsatisfactory, and the project was considered a failure. JGs introduced in 1958 and upgraded in 1961, remained in service as tropical combat clothing until 1984, when lightweight DPM trousers and shirts began to be introduced. Not wishing to repeat the prolonged and unsuccessful tropical combat clothing experience, the UK DPM temperate combat uniform was introduced with no redesign of the UK uniform with further NZ manufacture based on the UK specifications. A significant improvement on the previous uniforms provided for training in NZ, the introduction was piecemeal, with selected RF field force units fitted out first, followed by issues to the remainder of the RF and TF as stocks were made available, resulting in BD trousers and other legacy combat clothing items remaining in use well into the mid-1980s. While this article provides an overview of NZ Army combat clothing from 1950 to 1980, it provides a starting point for further research.
Notes
[1] Army 213/1/92 DSIR Tropical Clothing Dated 3 October 1955. “Clothing – Tropical Clothing and Personal Equipment,” Archives NZ No R17187760 (1955 – 1967); “Clothing – Policy and General – Annual Clothing Review,” Archives NZ No R17311752 (1967-1975).
[2] Army 213/5/320 Provision of Jungle Green Uniforms dated 2 December 1955. “Clothing – Policy and General – Jungle Green Uniforms,” Archives NZ No R17311754 (1955 – 1988).
[3] Army 213/5/1/ORD 7 Trouser Green Drill 1952 5 January 1962.”Clothing – Khaki Dress – Green Drill, Manufacture,” Archives NZ No R17187768 (1962-1967).
[4] CM (56)16 dated 10 April 1956. “Clothing – NZ Army Force Farelf: Policy, Scales, Accounting,” Archives NZ No R17187816 (1968 – 1970).
[5] “H-19 Military Forces of NZ Annual Report of the General Officer Commanding, for Period 1 April 1957 to 31 March 1958,” Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives (1958).
[6] Army 213/7/40/Q(Org) Clothing replacement – NZ Army Force FARELF. “Clothing – NZ Army Force Farelf: Policy, Scales, Accounting,” Archives NZ No R17187813 (1957 – 1962).
[7] Report on equipment used: Jungle Training Course No1. “Cookers – Jungle Warfare Equipment: General,” Archives NZ No R17189107 (1945-1968).
[8] Cmd 8/2/Q Introduction of New Orders of Dress – RF (Males) Trousers and Shirts, Drill Green Dated 5 November 1958. “Clothing – NZ Regular Forces: Scale of Issue,” Archives NZ No R17187791 (1957-1964).
[9] Army 213/7/4/DQ Dress-NZ Army 16 October 1959. Ibid.
[10] Army 213/10/7/A4 Dress: Male Officers and Soldiers 25 November 1960.”Clothing – Dress: NZ Army Forces, Far East Land Forces,” Archives NZ No R17187820 (1957-1963).
[11] Army 209/3/218/Q(Org) NZ FARELF Clothing Scales 7 March 1960. “Cookers – Jungle Warfare Equipment: General.”
[12] Army 246/6/194/SD Trial Instructions Clothing and equipment designed for use in training 11 July 1961.”Clothing – Clothing and Equipment Trials in Training,” Archives NZ No R9753143 (1961 – 1966).
[13] Army 213/7/40/QMG Maintenance of NZ Army Forces in SEA in Clothing and Personal Equipment November 1968. “Clothing – NZ Army Force Farelf: Policy, Scales, Accounting.”
[14] Army 213/7/4/DQ Basic Clothing Range: RF Males Dated 11 September 1962. “Clothing – NZ Regular Forces: Scale of Issue.”
[15] Army 213/7/40/Q(A) Clothing issues – Male Personnel posted for duty in FARELF dated 8 March 1963.Ibid.
[16] Army 213/7/4/Adm NZ Army Clothing and Personal Equipment Policy Statement dated 10 November 1964. “Clothing – NZ Regular Forces: Scale of Issue,” Archives NZ No R17187792 (1964-1967).
[17] Ministry of Defence 41/3/3 Army Clothing and Equipment Programme Army Submission 213/7/4 of 4.4.65 Dated 16 June 1965. Ibid.
[18] Army 213/7/4 Army Clothing and Personal Equipment Programme Dated 27 May 1966. Ibid.
[19] Army 213/7/4/Q9C) Pullovers Dated 15 August 1963. “Clothing – NZ Regular Forces: Scale of Issue.”
[20] Army 213/5/42/Q(A) Introduction of Shirts Training (CCN 8405-NZ-101-0588/0596) 22 April 1965.”Clothing – Clothing and Equipment Trials in Training.”
[21] Army 213/5/42/Q(D) Trial Instructions – Training Shirts 13 December 1965. Ibid.
[22] Army 213/1/92/Q(D) Shirts, Tropical Combat 20 November 1964. “Clothing – Tropical Clothing and Personal Equipment.”
[24] Army 213/1/92 Tropical Combat Clothing 5 August 1965. Ibid.
[25] HQ NZ V Force 213/1/92 Tropical Combat Clothing 17 August 1965. Ibid.
[26] Deputy Secretary of Defence (Army) 213/1/92/OS1 Purchase of cloth for trial combat clothing 15 September 1965. Ibid.
[27] Army 213/1/92/Q(D) Shirting Tropical Combat 10 December 1965. Ibid.
[28] Army 213/7/4 Study: Clothing Scales outer Garments Dated 2 August 1967. “Clothing – NZ Regular Forces: Scale of Issue,” Archives NZ No R17187793 (1967-1976).
[29] Army 246/78/5/Q(D) Trial Instructions Tropical Combat Dress (Aust) 11 January 1967. “Clothing – Clothing and Equipment Trials in Training,” Archives NZ No R9853144 (1966 – 1969).
[30] Army 213/1/106/Q(D) Tropical Combat Clothing Trial 11 September 1967. Ibid.
[31] Army 213/1/106/OS9 Trouser Combat Tropical Trial 4 January 1968.Ibid.
[32] Army 213/1/106/ORD6 Trousers Combat Tropical 18 September 1968.”Clothing – Introduction of Combat Clothing Project,” Archives NZ No R17187753 (1968-1976).
[33] NZ Army Purchase Description No 105 dated 4 January 1968. “Clothing – Men’s Drill Green Field Combat Tropical 1967 Pattern 1970-71,” Archives NZ No R24510756 (1970-71).
[34] NZ Army Purchase Description No 106 dated 5 February 1968. “Clothing – Trousers Men’s Drill Green Field Combat – Tropical 1967 Pattern,” Archives NZ No R24510754 (1968 -1968).
[35] Army 213/1/106/Q899 Trousers: Combat Tropical 28 March 1968
[36] Army 213/1/106/ord6 Trouser Combat Tropical 18 September 1968. “Clothing – Introduction of Combat Clothing Project.”
[37] NZ Army Purchase Description No 105A dated 23 October 1969. “Clothing – Men’s Drill Green Field Combat Tropical 1967 Pattern 1970-71.”
[38] Army 213/7/40/Q Ops Brief for QMG Clothing and Personal Equipment for NZ Army Forces in the Far East Dated 24 September 1969. “Clothing – NZ Army Force Farelf: Policy, Scales, Accounting.”
[39] Commonwealth of Australia 209/B/10 Malaysia and Singapore Planning Clothing and Personal Equipment dated 14 October 1969.
[40] Army 213/7/40/Q Ops Brief for QMG Clothing and Personal Equipment for NZ Army Forces in the Far East Dated 24 September 1969. “Clothing – NZ Army Force Farelf: Policy, Scales, Accounting.”
[41] DOS 106/9 10 Combat Clothing and Army Dress Rationalization, dated 10 September 1973. “Army 220/5/103/Aac Army Dress Committee Meeting 1 March 1971,” Archives NZ No R9753141 (1971).
[42] DEP 213/1/37 Adoption of Disruptive Pattern Uniform Dated 22 September 1975. “Clothing – Introduction of Combat Clothing Project.”
[43] Army 213/1/37/EP Sponsor Evaluation Disruptive Pattern Uniform for use in Temperate climates Date 4 March 1975. Ibid.
[44] Army 213/1/104/Inf Minutes of a meeting on a sponsor review of Combat Clothing sand equipment Dated 7 May 1975.”Clothing – Policy and General – Annual Clothing Review.”
[46] D Inf 213/1/37/EP Temperate Disruptive Pattern Uniform Dated 29 September 1975. Ibid.
[47] Army 213/1/37/EP Combat Clothing Dated 9 December 1975. Ibid.
[48] Army Staff Target 08 74/75 Temperate Zone Combat/Training Clothing Dated 16 July 1976. “Clothing – Policy and General – Intro of Combat Clothing Project,” Archives NZ No R17311750 (1977-81).
[49] ACDS (Spt) Minute SP 131/1977 Temperate Climate Combat/Training Clothing for NZ Army Dated 28 April 1977. Ibid.
Traditionally the New Zealand Army has not been an army that has embraced trade embellishments. The Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps (RNZAOC) and its predecessors, despite a variety of trades, only issued trade embellishments for the Ammunition Trade in the form of a stylised “Flaming A” in 1971.
1st pattern Ammunition Technician Badge. Dave Theyers Collection
It was not until ten years after the passing of the RNZAOC that the Supply Trade of the Royal New Zealand Army Logistic Regiment (RNZALR) moved to adopt a Top of Trade badge for its Supply personnel.
Pre WW1 Badges
The only supply trade embellishment authorised for use prior to the introduction of the RNZALR Supply Badge was an eight-pointed star that was worn by Regimental or Company Quartermaster Sergeants from 1905.[1] These Quartermaster Stars were discontinued in 1917.
Regimental Quartermaster Sergeant-Major, 1905-1915. Robert McKie Collection
Company Quartermaster Sergeant, 1905-1915. Robert McKie Collection
1960’s Recommendations
Based on the recommendations of the 1960 District and Formation Commanders conference, the New Zealand Army carried out a comprehensive review of Dress Embellishments, including trade badges for each of the army trade groups. In examining the British and Canadian systems of trade badges, it was determined that the British system of grouping unlisted trades under an “A” of “B” badge was an unsatisfactory system that provided no incentive for soldiers. In examining the Canadian system, it was found the Canadians had departed from traditional lines and produced designs that better represented the individual trades, for example, the Canadian storemans “Crossed Keys” badge was more indicative of the trade the British “Star” badge for drivers.
As a result of this study, the recommendation was made that trade badges based on the Canadian design be adapted for wear by the New Zealand Army, including for Storemen and Storekeepers (all corps), Crossed Keys Badge.
Canadian Army Storeman’s Badge 1958 to late 1960s. Robert McKie Collection
However, due to financial constraints and pushback from traditionalists, the recommendation for adopting trade badges made in 1960 was not followed through, and the New Zealand Army missed the opportunity to provide a practical means of identifying individual tradesmen.
Progression in the 2000s
Until 1994 the New Zealand Army supply system consisted of two trade steams.
Quartermaster Staff (Storeman All Arms), and
RNZAOC Suppliers
Because of the 1993 re-balancing of the New Zealand Army, the All Arms Store-man trade and the RNZAOC Supplier trade were merged into one trade known as the Supply-Quartermaster Trade (Sup/QM).[2] In 1996 all members of the Sup/QM Trade were transferred into the RNZALR on its formation.
Cap and collar badges of the RNZALR. Robert McKie Collection
Given the diverse nature of the Sup/QM Trade, with members drawn from each Corps and represented in every unit of the New Zealand Army, the amalgamation of the two trades was difficult and took time to consolidate.
In an effort to ease the transition and bring together senior trade members, the Trade Training School at Trentham hosted an annual seminar each year. By 2005 this annual seminar had become a one-way forum of presentations on supply matters with much discussion between participants but little action happening on moving the trade forward with the value of the seminar being questioned and its future in doubt.
Late in 2006, prior to the annual seminar, the S4 of 2 Logistic Battalion (2 Log Bn), Staff Sergeant Rob Mckie and the Officer Commanding of 21 Supply Company, Major Patricia Hilliam-Kareko prepared the 2 Log Bn contribution to the seminar on behalf of the 2 Log Bn Sup/QM Pers and initiate the change of the Sup/Q trade name and the creation of a Supply Trade Top of Trade Badge.
The 2 Log Bn presentation to the seminar included a brief on the following:[3]
A submission was raised by 2 Lon Bn on changing the Sup/QM trade name.
Submission of proposed changes to the Jnr Sup/QM Course
A proposal to instigate a trade newsletter/magazine amongst the trade
A proposal and discussion on a Sup/QM Managers badge to be issued when a per qualifies on the Sup/QM RNZALR Managers Course.
Of all the items briefed by 2 Log Bn, the proposal to change the trade name was endorsed by the seminar participants. The 2 Log Bn submission was submitted and approved through the command chain, and the Supply-Quartermaster Trade was renamed as the RNZALR Supply Technician (Sup Tech) Trade in October 2007. Additionally, the proposal for a Sup/QM Top of Trade dress embellishment was endorsed by the seminar, to be followed up by the Trade Training School.
During the 2007 Seminar Staff Sergeant Wagstaff of the Trade Training School briefed the seminar participants on the dress embellishment and the proposed course of action with a vote conducted amongst the Twenty-Seven seminar participants to determine whether a Top of Trade embellishment was a promising idea with draft designs to also be submitted. Votes for the top of trade embellishment were [4]
23 Yes
4 No
With the vote concluded and the majority in favour, Staff Sergeant Wagstaff then displayed the Twenty-Two designs that had been submitted as follows.
Staff Sergeant Read – Board of Ordnance Badge, (2 x variations)
Staff Sergeant Cook – Pataka, (Māori Storehouse) (3 x variations)
Warrant Officer Class 2 Whitton – Board of Ordnance/Pataka combo
Staff Sergeant McKie – Steyr/Taiaha/Key combo
Warrant Officer Class 2 Donaldson – Combat Supplies design
Sergeant Tawhara – Taiaha/Key/Southern Cross combo, (2 x variations)
Staff Sergeant Murphy – Distribution/Rickshaw/Acorn combo, (8 x variations)
Staff Sergeant Pullen – Fern/Key/Sword/Quill combo, (3 x variations) and
MR Dennistoun–Wood – Star/Flower emblem.
Following a series of votes, the design by Sergeant Tawhara was selected as the Top of Trade Badge. The winning design consisted of a taiaha and brass key diagonally crossed, with the four stars of the Southern Cross between each point. The badge is to be worn by any senior NCO, Warrant Officer or Officer qualified at the Supply Technician Management Course or an equivalent course previously such as the Band 5 Senior Supply course.
Submitted through the Army Dress committee, the Supply Technician Badge was approved in 2009 to wear with Service and Mess Dress uniforms.[5]
Rebranding of Trade
Effective from 1 May 2023, following approval from the Chief of Army, the trade name for RNZALR Supply Technician trade was officially changed to Logistics Specialist (Log Spec). This was a result of consultation with trade members in March 2020, which desired a new trade name to enhance the trade’s recruitment profile, align with civilian sector counterparts, and maintain relevancy with current trade membership.
From 1914 to 1958 the sight of New Zealand Soldiers in felt slouch hats was commonplace. In addition to providing a practical form of headdress, by the use of a coloured headband, it became easy to identify the Regiment or Corps of the wearer.
This article will provide a brief background on the use and history of Puggarees in New Zealand service with a focus on their use by the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps.
RNZAOC Puggaree. Robert McKie Collection
Origins
The Puggaree origins lay in the Hindu word, ‘Pagri’ which is used to describe a wide range of traditional headdress worn by men and women throughout the Indian Sub-Continent, one of the most recognisable being the Dustaar or Sikh turban.
Soldiers, by their nature, are creatures of innovation and British troops serving India soon found that by wrapping a thin scarf of muslin around their headdress, not only could additional protection from sword blows be provided, but the thin cloth scarf could also be unravelled to provide insulation from the heat of the sun. Like many Indian words, “Pagri” became anglicised into Puggaree.
By the 1870s, the functional use of the puggaree had become secondary, and the puggaree evolved into a decorative item on British Army headdress, which, when used with a combination of colours, could be used to distinguish regiments and corps. First used by New Zealanders in the South African war, the use of puggaree on slouch hats was formalised in the New Zealand Army 1912 Dress Regulations. These regulations detailed the colours of the distinctive puggaree used to indicate different branches of the service; [1][2]
World War One
When the first New Zealand Troops went overseas in 1914, the NZ Slouch hat was one that had been first used in the South Africa War and had a crease running down the crown from front to rear. From 1914 the Wellington Battalion wore their hats with the crown peaked, and after a brief period where cork helmets were also worn, General Godley issued a directive that all troops, other than the Mounted Rifles, were to wear the slouch hat with the crown peaked, in what became known as the “Lemon Squeezer”.[3]
NZMR
New Zealand felt “lemon Squeezer” hat with Ordnance Puggaree and NZEF Ordnance Badge. Robert McKie Collection
Worn with both the Mounted Rifles Slouch hat and the Lemon Squeezer, the puggaree became a distinctive mark of the New Zealand soldier, identifying them as distinct from soldiers from other parts of the Empire who, in general, used only plain puggaree on their headdress.[4][5] From 1917, the New Zealand puggaree also proved useful in distinguishing New Zealand troops from the Americans, who wore headdress similar to the New Zealand Lemon Squeezer hat.[6]
As the war progressed, additional units that did not exist in the pre-war New Zealand Army were created, both as part of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force (NZEF) and as part of the Home Service forces in New Zealand. This included the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps (NZAOC), which was formed as a unit of the NZEF in early 1916 and as part of the New Zealand Permanent Forces in 1917.[7]
It is assumed that as a new unit, a distinctive puggaree was adopted for the NZAOC, but the limited photographs of NZAOC personnel are black and white, making identification of colours difficult. The following photo of NZ Army Service Corps staff at Zeitoun Camp in Egypt taken in either later 1915 or early 1916, shows a soldier wearing a Lemon Squeezer hat with a coloured Puggaree with a British Army Ordnance Corps (AOC) Badge, possibly the first example of an NZ Ordnance Puggaree.
New Zealand Supply Depot Staff at Zeitoun Camp, 1915. Note Ordnance solder front row 3rd from left. National Army Museum of New Zealand
Ordnance Soldier with Lemon Squeezer, Puggaree and AOC Badge, New Zealand Supply Depot Staff at Zeitoun Camp, 1915. National Army Museum of New Zealand.
A Newspaper article from December 1918 does provide evidence that an Ordnance puggaree of red/blue/red existed. The article published in the Press on 5 December 1918 states the following:[8] “There are only two units in the New Zealand Division with red in the puggaree. They are the Artillery and Ordnance, and in both units, the colours are red and blue”. Although slightly incorrect in that only two units of the NZEF wore red in the puggaree, The Infantry also had red in their Puggaree; this sentence does identify that the Ordnance Puggaree was red and blue.
In a later photograph of the NZAOC at taken at Buckle Street in 1918, the Puggaree are distinctive.
The New Zealand Ordnance Corps 1918, Buckle Street Wellington. RNZAOC School
Taken from the 1918 Buckle Street picture, this blown-up image shows two soldiers, one with a Lemon Squeezer Hat and the other with a Mounted Rifles slouch hat; both puggarees could be of the NZ Ordnance pattern.
In a 1919 Photo of the NZAOC staff taken in Germany, the Puggaree of the Ordnance Staff are less distinctive and look to be a single colour, possibly red or Blue.
New Zealand Ordnance Corps demobilisation Staff at Mulheim, Germany, February 1919. Alexander Turnbull Library/Public Domain
Ordnance Corporal (Possibly TY Falvey) London 1918
The Inter-War Years
The red/blue/red Puggaree was formally be adopted as the Puggaree of the NZAOC in 1923 when the New Zealand Army updated its Dress Regulations for the first time since 1912.[9]
The Ordnance Puggaree became a common sight around New Zealand Military establishments up to 1931, where with the virtual disestablished of the NZAOC their use shrunk to twenty or so remaining NZAOC Soldiers.
World War Two
The onset of war in 1939 saw explosive growth of the New Zealand Army from a few hundred personnel to thousands, with articles published in newspapers to educate the public on the different coloured puggaree and which units they belonged to.[10] The red/blue/red Ordnance puggaree was worn throughout the war years by the NZAOC and the New Zealand Ordnance Corps, the Ordnance component of the NZEF and the Territorial Army.[11]
Lemon Squeezer as worn by members of the 2nd NZEF NZOC, Middle East, Italy 1939-44.
Ordnance soldier of the NZOC, New Zealand 1942-44.
Post War
The Lemon Squeezer Hat and puggaree remained a fixture of the New Zealand Army until 1958 when the Lemon Squeezer was withdrawn from services and replaced with a new Battle Dress cap, and the use of puggaree within the Ordnance Corps faded from memory.
RNZAOC Territorial Force 3rd intake Ngaruawahia Camp 1951. RNZAOC School CollectionRNZAOC Camp Commandants Bodyguard, Trentham Camp 1954. RNZAOC School Collection
[1] The original MZ Slouch hat had been first used in the South Africa War and had a crease running from front to rear. From 1914 the Wellington Battalion wore their hats peaked
[2] Malcolm Thomas and Cliff Lord, New Zealand Army Distinguishing Patches, 1911-1991 (Wellington, N.Z.: M. Thomas and C. Lord, 1995, 1995), Bibliographies, Non-fiction, Part One, 128-29
[3] 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 end. edition, 1980), Non-fiction, 47-48.
[4] Australia and Canada both use coloured puggaree on their respective headdress, just not to the same extent as New Zealand.
[5] “Local and General,” Dominion, Volume 9, Issue 2610, 4 November 1915.
[6] “Visit to Paris,” North Otago Times, Volume CV, Issue 14001, 11 December 1917.
[7] “New Zealand Army Ordnance Department and New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps Regulations,” New Zealand Gazette, No 95, June 7 1917.
[8] “Soldiers and Dress – Ordnance Puggaree,” Press, Volume LIV, Issue 16387, 5 December 1918.
[9] Thomas and Lord, New Zealand Army Distinguishing Patches, 1911-1991, 35.
