10/3/1869 - New Zealand Cross created
This medal was created because New Zealand's local military were not eligible for the Victoria Cross. Only 23 were awarded, making it one of the rarest military honours in the world.
Today in History
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North Island main trunk line
Take a trip back in time to explore the epic construction of the North Island main trunk railway line, the heyday of the steam passenger train and the place of the iconic railway refreshment room in New Zealand life. More...
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Flags of New Zealand
The New Zealand Flag hasn't always been our official flag. It was adopted in 1902, replacing the Union Jack. Between 1834 and 1840, the Flag of the United Tribes was recognised as our first 'national' flag. Waitangi Day 2010 also marked the first official recognition of the national Maori flag. -
The 1960s
Fifty years ago most Kiwis enjoyed a standard of living that was the envy of other nations. During the 1960s the arrival of TV and jet airliners shrank our world, and New Zealanders began to express themselves on a range of international issues, including opposition to the Vietnam War. -
The Musket Wars
Tens of thousands of Maori died in the intertribal Musket Wars of the 1810s, 1820s and 1830s. Muskets changed the face of intertribal warfare, decimating the population of some tribes and drastically shifting the boundaries of areas that others controlled. -
The memorials register
More than 450 memorials are currently listed on the register. Find your local memorial with our interactive location map, or help us find out about the ones we've missed.
