Established on 6 May 1985, the medal was originally presented for 15 years of unblemished service.

[2] On 14 August 2020, a new gazette was issued with modified criteria for the medal to be awarded for 14 years of service.

[1] The New Zealand Armed Forces Award is a circular silver medal.

The obverse bears the crowned effigy of Her Majesty The Queen surrounded by the inscription ELIZABETH II DEI GRATIA REGINA FID.

The reverse shows two crossed swords, pointed upwards, with a spread winged eagle superimposed in the centre, surmounted by a Naval Crown.