item details
NameMilitary Insignia - 3rd (Auckland) Mounted Rifles
ProductionUnknown; manufacturer(s); circa. 1916
Classificationinsignias, badges
Materialsbrass
DimensionsOverall: 177mm (width), 11mm (height), 73mm (depth)
Registration NumberGH021137
Overview
The 3rd (Auckland) Mounted Rifles was formed in 1911 as the renamed 1st Regiment, Auckland Mounted Rifles.
The Regiment's insignia depicts a hawk with outspread wings, holding a taiaha and a tewhatewha in its claws. The Regiment submitted the design of this badge to the Commanding Officer, Auckland Military District for approval on 23 June 1911. The design was described as representing 'a hawk on the alert, holding an ancient Maori weapon of battle in each claw. On the breast of the hawk is a shield containing the Southern Cross. The Regimental motto on the scroll - TE KAAHI MATAARA - translated means 'The hawk ever watchful and ready to strike.'