Pictures: New Zealand Army Band Voted As Best Act At Edinburgh Military Tattoo

The photographs below show The New Zealand Army Band in action at the 2019 Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo - before the band was presented with the Pooley Sword for their contribution to this year's show.

The Pooley Sword is an honour given to the act that has made the greatest contribution to the Tattoo as voted by fellow cast members.

Salute Taker Lord George Robertson presented Major Graham Hickman of the New Zealand Army Band with the honour at the final show of the Tattoo.

The New Zealand Army Band's humorous spirit, unique choreography and intricate drill manoeuvres not normally associated with marching musicians, secured them the most votes from their fellow cast members. 

Formed in 1964 as a traditional brass band to perform at state and ceremonial occasions, the band has evolved into one of the world's most diverse entertainment organisations, returning this year to Edinburgh for a sixth season.

The New Zealanders were up against fierce and colourful performances from competitors, with more than 1,100 performers from across the globe joining together on Edinburgh Castle’s esplanade to entertain audiences of 8,800 each night. 

These photographs below show the band bringing this year’s theme of ‘Kaleidoscope’ to life.

Next year will mark the 70th anniversary of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. 

The first Tattoo, in 1950, featured only eight events and attracted just 6,000 spectators. 

Today more than 220,000 visitors attend the spectacular open-air performance each year. 

Despite happening in one of the rainier parts of the United Kingdom - not a single Tattoo has ever been cancelled. 

The performances have been a sell-out for 20 consecutive years, contributing over £77 million to the Scottish economy.