The poppy has endured as a powerful and instantly recognisable symbol of remembrance across New Zealand and Australia.
For more than 50 years in New Zealand, the familiar red plastic-based poppy has been worn proudly by New Zealanders to honour the service and sacrifice of veterans.
Kiwis have always received the plastic poppy after making a donation to the Royal New Zealand Returned and Services Association on the poppy day, the RSA’s annual fundraising appeal.
This year however, those poppies may look a little different.
The RSA has introduced a new poppy made entirely from paper, a move towards a more sustainable option for the beloved symbol.
The new poppy is made from paper using a blend of renewable fibres from responsible sources, including material recovered from the waste generated in the production of coffee cups. Unlike the previous plastic-based poppy, the new design is completely biodegradable.
RNZRSA National President Tony Hill says the new poppy reflects both the “enduring importance of remembrance” and the organisation’s commitment to “responsible and ethical practices”.
“The poppy is one of the most powerful symbols of remembrance we have. While its meaning will never change, the way we produce it needed to evolve. This new poppy allows us to continue the tradition New Zealanders know and love, while making sure it is more sustainable and responsibly sourced for the future.”
The new poppies were introduced on this year’s poppy day, Friday April 17, 2026 , can be picked up from collection boxes in the community throughout April and at services commemorating Anzac Day on April 25.
In a bid to minimise waste and use up remaining stock, RSA collectors will this year offer two types, the new sustainable paper version and the plastic one.
As a paper product, the new poppy is less pliable and difficult to pin so the new version comes with a strong adhesive label to allow the poppy to be worn on all types of clothing.
The new poppy is produced by the Royal British Legion in a purpose-built facility in Kent, England. This ensures the RNZRSA has access to an ethical and reliable supply chain, while keeping production costs manageable so that more funds can go directly toward supporting New Zealand’s veterans.
The RSA revealed it had undertaken research to seek a New Zealand-made option, however was unable to find a solution that would not result in a significant increase in the cost of production.
In New Zealand, you can donate to the appeal at www.rsa.org.nz/donate or text POPPY to 8595 to instantly give $3.
