Nelson (New Zealand)

Heraldry of the World
Civic heraldry of New Zealand

NELSON

Official blazon

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Origin/meaning

The Arms were obtained in 1958 from the Royal College of Heralds to mark the Centenary of Nelson as a City.

The wavy blue and white bands on the shield indicate that Nelson is alongside the sea and the black cross is taken from the Arms of Lord Nelson. The Mitre indicates that it is a Cathedral City.

The crest shows the sun between the paws of a lion referring to the City's sunshine record.

The Huia was the royal bird of the Maoris and the white heron (Kotuku) is another distinctive New Zealand bird.

The motto - Palmam qui meruit ferat - was Lord Nelson's motto and means Let him, who has deserved it, bear the palm. It is also the motto of the Royal Naval College.