New Zealand Cross (1869) new New Zealand Cross for Bravery is similar to the 1869 medal with some amendments. The Crown is now the current St Edward's Crown instead of the Victorian Imperial State Crown, and New Zealand fern fronds replace laurel leaves. The ribbon is bright blue, a colour traditionally associated with bravery awards. There is also a new Victoria Cross for New Zealand for Gallantry, which has the same crimson ribbon and is made to the same design and of the same gunmetal as the British VC. "The Queen's Heroes: Victoria & New Zealand Crosses" by Murray Moorhead (2005, Zenith, New Plymouth)
Victoria Cross for New Zealand reverse of the suspension bar is engraved with the recipient's name, rank, number and unit. On the reverse of the medal is a circular panel on which the date of the act for which it was awarded is engraved in the centre. The ribbon is crimson, 38 millimetres (1.5 inches) wide. Although the warrants state the colour as being red it is described by most commentators as being crimson or "wine-red". The Victoria Cross for New Zealand is awarded for The power of awarding the medal officially resides with the Queen of New Zealand. The Royal Warrant states that the