Background:
Instituted by Royal Warrant on 20 September 1999 “For acts of outstanding bravery in situations of danger”. This medal superceeded the award of the George Medal for acts of civilian bravery and to date has been awarded eighteen times. The award is primarily for civilians but may be awarded to military personnel for acts for which gallantry or other awards are not appropriate.
Design:
The NZBS is a silver eight-pointed star, (four long and four short points). The design is the reverse of the shape of the NZ Cross. The reverse of the medal bears the inscription “FOR BRAVERY – MO TE MAIA”. The ribbons for the award is bright blue with two red ochre (kokowai) additional stripes representing the second level of gallantry accordingly.
Bars:
This photograph of the NZBS is the actual NZBS awarded to Allister Rose and is uploaded here with his permission.