History

The New Zealand Bravery Decoration was established by Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of New Zealand by Royal Warrant on September 20, 1999. It is the third highest decoration of the New Zealand Bravery Awards, which were introduced in 1999 to replace British bravery awards in the New Zealand award system. The New Zealand Bravery Decoration was created to reward acts of exceptional bravery demonstrated during dangerous non-combat situations where the recipient put their life at risk to save or to attempt to save the life of another. The New Zealand Bravery Decoration is mainly conferred upon New Zealand civilians, however it may be awarded to military personnel when appropriate. It may also be awarded to citizens of Commonwealth countries or other foreigners. It may be awarded posthumously.

Silver clasps in the shape of two New Zealand fern fronds are awarded for further demonstrations of exceptional bravery. Recipients of the New Zealand Gallantry Decoration are entitled to use the post-nominal letters NZBD.

The reverse inscription appears in English and Maori, and depicts an engraving of the recipient’s name and date of the award.