Heraldic crest with Maori warrior and moa "Advance New Zealand"

Seeking information, sherds of pottery featuring a heraldic crest flanked by a Maori warrior and moa, with the words "Advance New Zealand" underneath. At least 5 dinner plates and a mug. From a site in the dress circle of central Nelson, dated 1860's to 1880's from associated black bottle glass. It does not appear to be an official crest. No maker's mark on the pieces recovered.

see photos and discussion at this site: https://www.facebook.com/groups/20919641600/








































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Hi Deb, Those do indeed look very old, but I am afraid I personally can't help you with the pieces. I would think that 'Advance New Zealand' would be a motto for an organisation like the armed forces or similar, or perhaps an early government department. The shape of the plate would indicate that this may be printed on English china, like Grindly or similar. I wonder if the Nelson Provincial Museum might be of assistance to you.
Could I also suggest that you edit the post, and replace the pictures with just the facebook link to make it easier for our other members to view the photos, as one of them may be able to help.