Story: Royal honours system

The New Zealand Antarctic Medal

The New Zealand Antarctic Medal

The New Zealand Antarctic Medal (NZAM) features the head of the queen on one side and four emperor penguins in various poses on the other. The penguins are pictured in an Antarctic setting including Mt Erebus. The medal was established in 2006 as New Zealand’s equivalent of the British Polar Medal. Its white ribbon and octagonal shape pay homage to its elder cousin. The medal is made of sterling silver. As with many medals, a second award is shown by a ‘bar’ on the ribbon. The NZAM bar bears two fern fronds.

Courtesy of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet

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How to cite this page:

Mandy Wong, 'Royal honours system - Queen’s service, bravery and Antarctic honours', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/object/35656/the-new-zealand-antarctic-medal (accessed 30 March 2024)

Story by Mandy Wong, published 20 Jun 2012