History

The Victoria Cross for New Zealand was established by Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of New Zealand by Royal Warrant on September 20, 1999. It is the highest decoration of the New Zealand Gallantry Awards, which were introduced in 1999 to replace British gallantry awards in the New Zealand award system. The Victoria Cross for New Zealand was created to reward acts of the most conspicuous gallantry, acts of self-sacrifice or extreme devotion to duty demonstrated in the presence of enemies and during dangerous operational situations. It may also be awarded posthumously.

Clasps bearing laurel leaves are awarded for further demonstrations of conspicuous gallantry. Recipients of the Victoria Cross for New Zealand are entitled to use the post-nominal letters VC.

The VC has been awarded once, in 2007, to Corporal Willia Apiata for bravery under fire during the war in Afghanistan.

The Victoria Cross for New Zealand features the recipient's name and date of the award on the reverse.