Instituted in 1912  for the Territorial Force of New Zealand and superseded The New Zealand Volunteer Service Medal. It was awarded to officers and other ranks of the New Zealand Territorial Forces upon completion of twelve years' service. It was replaced in 1931 by The New Zealand Efficiency Medal. Originally the ribon was a khaki colour, but replace in 1917 by a ribbon of dark khaki with crimson edges.

^{This replica medal is handcrafted in sterling silver.}