A Gallipoli-inspired Maori cloak will be the first that's able to be worn by any member of the New Zealand Defence Force.
Warrant Officer Robert Jobe spent up to two hours every night, for the past year, creating the living taonga, and 'Nga Tapuwae' was handed over today at the National War Memorial in Wellington.
It's made of various types of feathers including peacock -- some natural, and some dyed.
The first four lines represent those who died at Gallipoli, but that's not the only thing it's about -- the cloak represents every New Zealander who's served since, and all members of the Defence Force are eligible to wear it.
"That's very unique for us and I think it's a wonderful initiative for us," says Lieutenant General Tim Keating, Chief of the Defence Force.
"That they can be a chiefly status, like the one I wear as part of my stewardship of the Defence Force."
But those chosen to wear it will be in an exclusive group.
"We'll carefully select it," says Lt Gen Keating.
"It's something that should have a significance about it when it's worn."
Reservist of the year Lance Corporal Nicholas Hill will have the honour of wearing it first, at Gallipoli later this month.
Newshub.
