The Royal New Zealand RSA has announced the poppy will get a new look as they stand down the red-plastic poppy after more than 50 years.
The RNZRSA will be introducing a new sustainable poppy next month, made from biodegradable paper at this year's Poppy Day Appeal.
This change is because specialised machinery that made the plastic poppies for decades in Christchurch was no longer in use. The plastic-based poppies were also causing issues at cemeteries and memorials such as being caught up in lawn mowers.
The new poppies will be made in a purpose-built facility by the Royal British Legion in Kent, England. The RSA said no New Zealand maker could be sourced that wouldn't be a "significant increase in the cost of production".
Other noticeable changes are a leaf, rather than white RSA tag, and an adhesive to attach to clothing, as "the new poppy is less pliable and difficult to pin".
RNZRSA National President Tony Hill says the new poppy reflects the organisations commitment to a sustainable future.
"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".
He said both poppies will be available from RSA collectors as they use up the old red-plastic poppies to replace them with the new sustainable paper poppy.
People can pick up poppies from their community collection boxes throughout April in the lead up to Anzac Day.
SHARE ME