Obverse:
A bareheaded effigy of King George VI, facing left, and the inscription GEORGIVS VI D:G:BR:OMN:REX F:D:IND:IMP.

Reverse:
Inscribed with the words FOR SERVICE TO NEW ZEALAND 1939-1945 in four lines with a fern frond at the bottom.

Ribbon:
Black with white stripes on both edges.