[4] Until 1995, this type of service was recognised by awards of the British Empire Medal (Military Division).

It may be awarded for the outstanding performance of military duties in either warlike or non-warlike operations, or for individual efforts toward peacetime and humanitarian service which brings great credit to the New Zealand Defence Force.

The acts must contribute significantly, through exceptional devotion to duty, dedication, judgement or application of skills to the conduct of an operational deployment, the conduct of military training or a military operation or operations, or the management and implementation of a project or activity with significant implications for the current or future capability of the New Zealand Defence Force.

The decoration, made of sterling silver, is a representation of a kotiate, a Māori eight bladed war club.

The reverse is inscribed “FOR DISTINGUISHED SERVICE” and its Māori language equivalent “MO NGA TE MAHI KAHURANGI”.