The NZGSM 2002 (Timor-Leste) was instituted in 2007 to recognise New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) and New Zealand Police personnel who served in Timor-Leste from 28 April 2006, providing stability and security following the outbreak of violence in April 2006 and May 2006. The length of qualifying service was 30 days or 7 sorties.

Timor-Leste ceased to be an operational area for NZDF and New Zealand Police personnel with effect 31 December 2012.

More than 1,600 NZDF personnel and about 200 New Zealand Police personnel qualified for the award of the NZGSM (Timor-Leste).