FW182 NEW ZEALANDER STAND-AT-EASE BY KING AND COUNTRY
Overview
Introduction
History of New Zealanders in WWI
Collector Notes
Collectors focusing on First World War miniatures will find King & Country’s FW182 “New Zealander Stand‑at‑Ease” a meticulously crafted and historically affectionate figure. Released in 2014, this metal figure is cast in a lead/tin alloy and hand‑painted in 1:30 scale, standing approximately 7 cm tall. The figure features the signature “lemon‑squeezer” hat and Lee–Enfield rifle at the side, marking it unmistakably as a NZ soldier. Its craftsmanship, pose, and accurate detailing make it a prized piece in WWI collections.
Historical Background
In 1914, New Zealand, as part of the British Empire, committed over 100,000 volunteers—nearly 10% of its population—to the First World War. These volunteers formed the New Zealand Expeditionary Force (NZEF), which first engaged in the Gallipoli Campaign beginning 25 April 1915. Their role in Gallipoli, fighting alongside the ANZACs (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps), earned enduring renown for resolve and sacrifice. After evacuation in January 1916, the NZEF redeployed to the Western Front, fighting in key actions such as the Somme (1916), Messines (1917), and Passchendaele (late 1917), often in muddy and lethal trench warfare against German forces.
The distinctive “lemon‑squeezer” peaked hat, depicted on the King & Country figure, was introduced in 1916 and became a powerful national symbol. It set New Zealanders apart from other Commonwealth troops. They were typically equipped with the Short Magazine Lee–Enfield rifle, standard issue at the time. New Zealand’s contributions in WWI had a disproportionate impact: heavy casualties shaped national identity and led to commemorations like ANZAC Day, first observed on 25 April 1916. Overall, the NZEF’s legacy became a foundational chapter in New Zealand’s emergence on the world stage, reflecting both military prowess and nation‑forming sacrifice.
Collector Notes
Identification of King & Country FW182 “New Zealander Stand‑at‑Ease” is straightforward: serial code FW182 and “King&Country WW1 2014” on pedestal confirm factory origin. The 1:30 scale, around 7 cm tall, uses lead/tin alloy and bears detailed hand‑painted factory finish (lastdodo.com). A distinguishing feature is the iconic “lemon‑squeezer” hat and side Lee–Enfield rifle pose (lastdodo.com). Packaging typically matches King & Country’s World War I blister‑style cards; retired status limits availability (treefrogtreasures.com). Market pricing varies: original US release was around US $45; secondary‑market prices range approximately US $40–54 depending on condition and retailer (toysoldiers.com). Common condition issues include bent rifles or chipped paint on raised edges. Collectors should verify intact “WW1 2014” imprint and crisp hat details.
Some examples may show slight variation in paint shading due to hand finishing.
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King & Country FW182 New Zealander Stand‑at‑Ease Review
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