History

On 2 April 1859 the first civilian band in New Zealand was formed in Mr Mamby's music hall in New Plymouth.  Mr Mamby was the conductor of the local Philharmonic Society.  The civilian members were volunteer members of the Taranaki Militia and Rifles.  A year later the group welcomed the British Imperial Forces as they arrived during the war.

After the war, the band became the Town Cavalry Band and a year later the Smart Road Band was formed.  Both performed at a number of public functions.  The Taranaki Regimental Band was created in 1880.  Early in the 20th Century the New Plymouth Citizens Band evolved and subsequently amalgamated with the Regimental Band.  In 1950 the New Plymouth City Band was incorporated and today it is known as New Plymouth Brass.

The strong and historic link with the military is recognised today by the New Plymouth Brass hat badge, which is a replica of the insignia of the Taranaki Regiment.