Serving NZDF personnel are awarded the medal automatically once the eligibility criteria are met.

The reverse depicts one large New Zealand fern frond and the emblems of the Navy, Army and Air Force represented by the badge of the New Zealand Defence Force.

The lower portion of the reverse contains the inscription "THE NEW ZEALAND DEFENCE SERVICE MEDAL".

[5] For meeting the requirements of Compulsory Military Training from 1949—1958, as stated in the relevant regulations and legislation.

[5] For having met conscripted National Service obligations as stated in the relevant legislation and regulations, from 1962—1972.