The 1972 New Zealand gallantry awards were announced via two Special Honours Lists dated 7 March and 27 July 1972, and recognised five New Zealand military personnel for gallant and distinguished service during operations in Vietnam.^[1][2]

Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)

• Squadron Leader Robin John Klitscher BSc – Royal New Zealand Air Force.
• Lieutenant Edwin Grant Steel – Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment.

Military Medal (MM)

• Lance Corporal John Leonard Adams – Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment.

Mention in despatches

• Lieutenant (temporary Captain) Robert John Sutherland Munro – Royal New Zealand Corps of Signals.
• Private Taare Parekura – Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment.