- Time Period: Post-WW2
- Year of Institution: 13 March 1975
- Country: New Zealand
The Queen’s Service Medal is a medal bestowed by the New Zealand government to acknowledge and honor volunteer contributions to the community, as well as public service in elected or appointed positions.
This medal was established in 1975 and has a connection to the Queen’s Service Order. The QSM took over the role of the Imperial Service Medal as a New Zealand award.
The New Zealand Queen’s Service Medal Design
There are two versions of the Queen’s Service Medal: 1975-2007 and 2007-present.
The original medal measured 36 millimeters (1.4 inches) in diameter, was crafted from sterling silver. Its obverse featured the same effigy of Queen Elizabeth II as the Queen’s Service Order badge, encircled by her Royal styles and titles, “ELIZABETH II DEI GRATIA REGINA F.D.” On the reverse, the New Zealand Coat of Arms was displayed, accompanied by the inscription “The Queen’s Service Medal” and the specific sub-division, either “for Community Service” or “for Public Services.” The recipient’s initials and name were engraved on the medal’s rim. These medals were manufactured by the Royal Mint.
The current medal, also composed of sterling silver and measuring 36 mm in diameter, showcases the Ian Rank-Broadley designed effigy of Queen Elizabeth II on its obverse. The effigy is surrounded by her Royal styles and titles, “ELIZABETH II QUEEN OF NEW ZEALAND.” The reverse side features the New Zealand Coat of Arms, bordered by the inscription “The Queen’s Service Medal” above and “for service – MO NGA MAHI NUI” below.
Both versions of the medal hang from a 36 mm wide ribbon. It has narrow red ochre (kokowhai) stripes along the edges, while the center displays alternating stripes of red ochre, white, and black, forming a descending step pattern from left to right. This design draws inspiration from the Māori Poutama pattern found in Tukutuku wall panels, symbolizing the “stairway to heaven,” although in this context, it represents the “steps of service.”
