New Zealand Cross

Help. This medal is described as the New Zealand Cross awarded in 1863 to Private John Cole in his obituary. The original new Zealand Cross was instigated in 1869 when the governor George Bowen mistakenly thought colonial soldiers were ineligible for the Victoria Cross. The New Zealand Cross looks like the Victoria Cross in Wikipedia, Is this a plainer version issued to non officers? The ribbon is for the Distinguished Conduct Medal different to the plain crimson ribbon of the New Zealand Cross. Anyone have any ideas, would be much appreciated.
Thanks

This looks like something issued at a regimental level, paid for by the Commanding Officer when he thought one of his soldiers was worthy of recognition but for whatever reason was unable to recommend him for an official award (or did but the recommendation was rejected).