The 1975 New Zealand Police visor (forage) cap marked a major turning point in the force's history. It coincided with the transition from traditional black uniforms to the modern "vitric blue" kit. The cap prominently features the Sillitoe Tartan, a black-and-white checkered band used internationally by law enforcement. Interestingly the picture below of the Police Commisioner shows him wearing the forage cap without a Tartan band.
Key Characteristics of the 1975 NZ Police Cap
- The Design: A peaked forage cap with a semi-circular, shiny black plastic visor.
- Sillitoe Tartan Band: The iconic black-and-white checkered band wraps around the base of the crown. This pattern originates from the Glasgow Police Force in 1932, drawing inspiration from Scottish regimental glengarries.
- Cap Badge: Features the official New Zealand Police crest, typically depicting the Queen's Crown, flanked by stylized silver ferns, and mounted above a central emblem.
- Senior Officers: Inspectors and higher-ranking officials feature intricate gold or silver oak leaf embroidery on the brim. See below.
· This blue felt winter helmet white, leather summer helmet were formerly worn by the New Zealand Police.
· The style is often referred to as a "bobby" helmet, featuring a prominent chrome badge on the front.
· These helmets became obsolete and were phased out of use by the New Zealand Police in 1992. Now they were “Baseball Caps”.
· Commonly manufactured by Mountcastle Pty Ltd in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
The primary headwear for the New Zealand Police today is a modern, moisture-wicking baseball-style cap. This was introduced as the universal constabulary headgear to replace the cumbersome forage caps, which were prone to falling off in dynamic situations and incompatible with in-vehicle use.
Depending on rank, climate, and operational needs, officers may also wear:
- Peaked Caps: Often worn by senior ranks and for formal or ceremonial occasions.
- Akubra-Style Hats: Wide-brimmed hats used by specific units or in specialized environments.
- Cultural and Religious Headwear: The NZ Police include specially designed religious headwear, such as the official uniform hijab and turban, to promote inclusivity and better represent the community.
The front of the standard caps and hats features the official silver-colored NZ Police badge, which displays the letters "NZP" flanked by stylized silver ferns. Following the accession of King Charles III, this emblem is now topped by the Tudor (King's) Crown.