Focus magazine number 67, April 2019

April 2019 | Issue 67

Native Alpine Flora New Zealand Lighthouses 2019 ANZAC: Dawn Service New Zealand Space Pioneers

Contents Our magnificent mountain dwellers.......................................... 3 An illuminating perspective......................................................... 4 2019 ANZAC: Dawn Service.......................................................... 5 Recent stamp issues...................................................................6-7 Making space for New Zealand................................................8-9 The Year of the Pig........................................................................ 10 Upcoming stamp issues.............................................................. 11 Latest stamps from Niue & Tokelau........................................ 12 Personalised Postage packs...................................................... 13 Combining Personalised Stamps with Personalised Postage............................................................................................. 13 Recent coin issues........................................................................ 14 Upcoming coin issues.................................................................. 15 World Money Fair, Berlin............................................................ 15 FIAP International Stamp Exhibition....................................... 16 Philatelic calendar........................................................................ 16 Puzzle time...................................................................................... 17 International stamps.............................................................. 18-19

Cover illustration: Native Alpine Flora

Focus is produced by New Zealand Post's Stamps and Coins team and brings you news and background information on stamps, coins and other products.

To subscribe to Focus and join the New Zealand Post mailing list, please tick the appropriate box when you complete the order form in this issue, or contact the Collectables and Solutions Centre: FreePost No.1 New Zealand Post Collectables and Solutions Centre Private Bag 3001 Whanganui 4541 New Zealand Ph: +64 6 349 1234

Kia ora, welcome!

Welcome to the first issue of Focus for 2019.

In February we issued Native Alpine Flora, a stamp issue featuring striking images of some of New Zealand’s toughest flowering plants. Behind the visual beauty of these stamps, illustrated in detail by Wellington artist Stephen Fuller, is a fascinating scientific story. Much of New Zealand’s alpine flora appears to be significantly younger than the mountains it is found on, leading botanists to explore how some 600 species could have made their way to New Zealand or evolved so rapidly.

Man-made and less mysterious, lighthouses have made an appearance on quite a few New Zealand Post stamps thanks to a long-running life insurance series. In 1890 the New Zealand Government authorised a special set of stamps for use by the Life Insurance Department. These stamps continued to be issued for the next century. The latest lighthouse-themed issue was created by young in-house designer Hannah Fortune, with a twist. Lighthouse Perspectives turns the lens on the surrounding scenery and seascapes that accompany our nautical beacons. And, for the first time, we also feature a lighthouse on a coin.

Last year we celebrated New Zealand putting its first object into orbit, after Rocket Lab’s successful launch of its Electron rocket. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the first Moon landing, and we’re celebrating with a stamp and coin issue focusing on New Zealand’s contributions to space sciences. This exciting issue includes a special 3D lenticular miniature sheet celebrating the world’s achievements in space exploration.

This year we also have our annual Chinese New Year stamps, celebrating the Year of the Pig. And after five years looking back 100 years on from the First World War, our 2019 Anzac stamps focus on the annual Anzac Dawn Service.

We also cover our exciting recent and upcoming coin issues, the World Money Fair that took place this February, and much more.

I hope you enjoy this issue of Focus.

You can find out more about our stamps, coins and other products and order online at: nzpost.co.nz/stamps nzcoins.co.nz nzpost.co.nz/personalisedstamps From here you can also subscribe to our email updates on the latest stamp, coin and other products on offer from New Zealand Post.

You can also view a list of all philatelic clubs and societies and their contact details.

This issue of Focus has been printed on Neo Satin paper from B&F Papers. B&F Papers is committed to being an environmentally responsible company with Forest Stewardship Council® and Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification.

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Simon Allison Head of Stamps and Coins Please note: •

The finished products may differ from those illustrated in this newsletter.

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Focus may not illustrate all stamp, coin and collectable products that are featured in this issue or that appear in the order form.

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Artwork and articles from Focus may not be extracted for reprinting without prior permission from New Zealand Post's Stamps and Collectables Business. For more information and to request permission, please contact the Design Co-ordinator, Stamps and Collectables Business, Private Bag 39990, Wellington Mail Centre, Lower Hutt 5045. nzpost.co.nz/stamps

New Zealand is home to some intrepid people, so it may not be surprising to learn that we share our home with trailblazing plant life. New Zealand’s intriguing alpine plants appear to be much younger than the land mass, pointing to their rapid and spectacular evolution and diversification. Native Alpine Flora explores six of the 600 flowering species found in New Zealand’s alpine areas.

Botanists have evidence that immigrant ancestors of alpine plants dispersed to New Zealand quite recently from Australia, New Guinea and South America. Some might have come from or via Antarctica, which was home to rich flora only a few million years ago. Equally adventurously, other species appear to have evolved from native lowland plants that adapted to alpine environments as the landscape shifted.

The alpine zone is defined as the area between the tree line and the lower limit of permanent snow. The tree line varies from 900 to 1,500 metres above sea level, depending on latitude and distance from the coast. The North Island’s primarily volcanic mountains support much fewer plants than those in the South Island. Within the South Island, the major biodiversity hot-spots of Nelson-Marlborough and FiordlandOtago support the greatest number of locally unique alpine flora species.

Alpine plants are characterised by their tough, resourceful and adaptable qualities. They’re able to grow and reproduce in low temperatures and survive and thrive under both cold and hot conditions. Many plants cling to exposed and unstable foundations, from infertile soil to shattered rock. Their deep root systems anchor them in the wind and provide access to the water and nutrients submerged below barren rock, shingle and soil. Alpine cushion plants have many compact branches tipped with small, crowded, hairy leaves that reduce damage and water loss in high winds and severe frost.

These hardy plants have also evolved effective means of reproducing in desolate environments. Many of New Zealand’s alpine flowers are small, white or yellow, and simple, because they are pollinated by insects such as flies, beetles, and moths with generalised tastes and behaviour. Wind- and self-pollination are also common. A number rely on wind to

Focus issue 67 - April 2019

Our magnificent mountain dwellers

spread their seeds; others are dispersed by the birds, lizards, and insects that reside in the high mountains. A few seeds are splashed out of cup-like capsules by the energy of rainfall.

The inhospitable environments that New Zealand’s alpine plants endure can be credited with protecting them from other threats to their existence. Nonetheless, since European settlement, introduced plants and animals have affected native plant species. Browsing animals such as chamois, deer and Himalayan tahr both eat and trample them, and farmed sheep have been grazed up to alpine zones since the mid-19th century. Introduced plants that affect the structure, functions and composition of New Zealand's native plant communities are both established and abundant above the tree line. The predicted impacts of climate change also pose a major threat.

The Department of Conservation (DOC) encourages people travelling through alpine areas to stay to formed tracks to avoid crushing soil and plant life. In 2018, DOC released a plan to cull a large proportion of Himalayan tahr in a direct attempt to protect alpine and sub-alpine vegetation.

New Zealand’s mysterious mountains still promise to reveal diamonds in the rough, as researchers continue to discover and define new species every year. In 2018, Myosotis bryonoma was among three forget-me-not species to be formally named. This was done with the help of the New Zealand public following an exhibition celebrating 150 years of scientific discovery held by the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa.

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An illuminating perspective As an island nation, lighthouses are a common sight at our harbour entrances and along our 15,000 kilometres of rugged coastline. Maritime New Zealand’s Steve Knapp sheds some light on what it’s like to look after Aotearoa’s lighthouses, from the earliest structures to the most modern beacons.

What's involved in maintaining New Zealand’s lighthouses in 2019?

Maritime New Zealand looks after 140 navigation aids, which range from the ‘classic lighthouse’ to day markers - so the work is varied. Our lighthouses are situated in some of the toughest environments you can imagine and take a hammering from the elements.

Maintaining the lighthouses - especially the 23 classic lighthouses - takes a lot of work. Every year we have special projects - major paint jobs that can take weeks to complete because of the difficulty of the jobs, weather and remoteness of the sites.

Maintenance teams visit each site once a year, doing everything from painting the lighthouses to polishing lenses. We visit every six months to check the site and to ensure the light is still shining. Having said that, we remotely monitor most of the sites. We are sent alerts if any issues arise - for example, if a mains-powered site loses power and is operating on its battery back-up.

What's the most common reason for being called out to a lighthouse?

With the regular servicing and back-up systems we have in place, we don’t have many call-outs due to lights stopping.

Unfortunately - from time to time - we still get vandalism and false reports of lights being out. Those are the most common reasons for an urgent visit.

How did you come to be the caretaker of Maritime New Zealand's lighthouses?

I started out as an apprentice engineer in a firm that made leadlights and lighthouse beacons that were shipped 4

all over the world. I really enjoyed the work. A few roles later, I heard about the ‘Aids to Navigation Advisor’ position at Maritime New Zealand and applied.

I have a strong interest in the sea, being a diver and fisherman, and have done a bit of search and rescue in the past, so Maritime New Zealand is a good fit for me.

Have you ever encountered anything particularly strange on a call-out?

I haven’t had any ‘strange encounters’, but we do visit some special parts of New Zealand and see amazing wildlife.

I’ve been chased by grumpy seals. They sleep in the bush and don’t enjoy being woken by a visiting lighthouse keeper.

On Cuvier Island - which is 25 kilometres out to sea in the Hauraki Gulf - we were working on the balcony. I looked up and saw we were being circled by a pair of rare New Zealand falcons - not what you expect so far out at sea.

Finally, tell us about your favourite lighthouse.

My favourite is St Anne Point Lighthouse at the head of Milford Sound - a truly wild place in a special part of New Zealand. The ‘classic lighthouses’ are always great to visit. When we are working at the lights that are easily accessed by the public we are always being asked about their history and future - I enjoy sharing their stories.

Lighthouse Perspectives stamps are available to order now. A 1oz silver proof New Zealand Lighthouses coin featuring Tiritiri Matangi lighthouse is available to pre-order. nzpost.co.nz/stamps

On 25 April 1915, thousands of young Australians and New Zealanders of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) landed on the beaches of the Gallipoli Peninsula in New Zealand's first major effort of the First World War. The Allies had hoped to seize control of the Dardanelles Strait, but by the time the bloody and fruitless campaign ended, 2,779 New Zealand soldiers were among the 130,000 dead.

Focus issue 67 - April 2019

2019 ANZAC: Dawn Service

Anzac Day was first observed as a New Zealand public holiday in 1916, and the annual Dawn Service holds a place of honour in the calendars of many families. Whether in Auckland or Kaikōura, Gallipoli or London, Scott Base or Stewart Island, every year Kiwis across Aotearoa and around the world rise early to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice, and to honour the men and women who serve today.

In 2019, New Zealand Post is recognising this national tradition with a set of six stamps, each focused on a specific location and its Dawn Service. In Northland, Whāngārei locals have gathered at Laurie Hall Park’s Field of Remembrance since 2010. This was the first centre in New Zealand to revive this form of commemoration for Anzac Day. The service at the iconic Auckland War Memorial Museum and Cenotaph is the largest New Zealand Anzac Day service anywhere in the world. First observed there in 1939, the service is broadcast live on Māori Television and remains much the same as it was 80 years ago.

The Anzac Dawn Service at Dannevirke is typical of those in country towns when locals come together to remember past generations and reflect on the impact of war on the community. In the wake of the 2016 magnitude-7.8 earthquake, the Anzac Dawn Service in the small coastal town of Kaikōura provides an opportunity to acknowledge the support of the New Zealand Defence Force in responding to this devastating event.

The Dawn Service held at Oban, Halfmoon Bay, Stewart Island is the southernmost in New Zealand, and the

war memorial records 11 locals who died in two World Wars.

There is no dawn at Scott Base in Antarctica for the 2019 Anzac Dawn Service - the sun will have set the day before for the ‘polar night’ and will not rise again until August - but Kiwis wintering over will still remember. It is a reminder of the inscription on New Zealand memorials overseas: ‘From the Uttermost Ends of the Earth’.

We will remember them.

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Recent stamp issues Royal Visit 2018 In October 2018 the Duke and Duchess of Sussex visited New Zealand for the first time together, as part of their Pacific tour. This commemorative set of stamps captures some memorable moments from their time in Aotearoa.

This set of stamps follows the 2018 Royal Wedding stamp issue, which was released within hours of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding ceremony on 19 May 2018.

Date of issue: 30 October 2018 Designer: Hannah Fortune, New Zealand Post, Wellington, New Zealand Printer: Collectables and Solutions Centre, New Zealand Post, Whanganui, New Zealand Withdrawal date: 29 October 2019

Christmas 2018 Christmas is a cultural tradition that brings many families together once a year in New Zealand.

An official national public holiday in New Zealand since the early 20th century, Christmas is celebrated in a Southern Hemisphere summer.

Boxing Day (the day after Christmas) is also a public holiday, as are New Year’s Day and the day after New Year’s Day. These beautifully illustrated stamps feature key characters in the Nativity story – Mary, baby Jesus, Joseph, a Christmas angel, three wise men, and a humble shepherd.

Date of issue: 7 November 2018 Designer: Saint Andrew Matautia, New Zealand Post, Wellington, New Zealand Printer: Southern Colour Print by offset lithography Withdrawal date: 6 November 2019

Ross Dependency - Aircraft Throughout New Zealand’s Antarctic presence, aircraft have provided transport both to and across the icy continent. Land- and sea-based alternatives are highly time consuming or unsafe. Much of Antarctica’s surface is covered by crevassed ice, and coastal areas by seasonal sea ice.

Without aircraft for transport, the important scientific research localities of Antarctica would be practically inaccessible. This set of stamps showcases some of the various aircraft that have been used to access and explore Antarctica.

Date of issue: 7 November 2018 Designer: New Zealand Post, Wellington, New Zealand Printer: Southern Colour Print by offset lithography Withdrawal date: 6 November 2019

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nzpost.co.nz/stamps

In 2019 Chinese New Year was celebrated on 5 February, bringing in the Year of the Pig. New Zealand Post created a special stamp issue to commemorate this annual celebration.

According to the traditional Chinese lunar calendar, people born in the Year of the Pig are known for being calm under pressure, no matter how difficult the problem or the situation. They’re also curious by nature, although their interest in the latest gossip can land them in hot water with friends and family for ‘overstepping the mark’.

Focus issue 67 - April 2019

2019 Year of the Pig

Date of issue: 16 January 2019 Designer: Asiaworks, Auckland, New Zealand Printer: Cartor Security Printing, France, by offset lithography Withdrawal date: 15 January 2020

Native Alpine Flora For many years, the origins of New Zealand’s native alpine flora were shrouded in mystery. At a youthful 2-10 million years old, New Zealand’s alpine areas are comparatively new, formed well after the break-up of Gondwanaland.

Although scientists haven’t yet told all their stories, New Zealand’s alpine plants appear to be much younger than the land mass, representing rapid and spectacular evolution and diversification. Native Alpine Flora explores six of the 600 flowering species found on New Zealand’s mountains between the tree line and permanent snow.

Date of issue: 13 February 2019 Designer: Stephen Fuller, Wellington, New Zealand Printer: Southern Colour Print by offset lithography Withdrawal date: 12 February 2020

Lighthouse Perspectives Lighthouses come in various shapes and sizes and materials, influenced by the architecture of the time, the resources available and the positioning of the structure. The unique designs of lighthouses are part of their charm, and they make for popular pilgrimages by local and international travellers alike. Lighthouse Perspectives showcases the stunning views from the windows of six of New Zealand’s classic lighthouses.

Date of issue: 6 March 2019 Designer: Hannah Fortune, New Zealand Post, Wellington, New Zealand Printer: Southern Colour Print by offset lithography Withdrawal date: 5 March 2020

2019 ANZAC: Dawn Service The first Anzac Day was observed throughout New Zealand on 25 April 1916 — the inaugural anniversary of the landings at Gallipoli. The acts of New Zealand soldiers in their first major campaign of the First World War provided a source of pride, while the dead brought much sorrow. The Anzac Dawn Service is not only a meaningful ritual of remembrance; it brings us together like no other day. These stamps show a glimpse of the services held in Auckland, Kaikōura, Stewart Island, Scott Base in Antarctica, Whāngārei and Dannevirke.

Date of issue: 3 April 2019 Designer: Helcia Berryman, Grange Park Creative, Raumati South, New Zealand Printer: Southern Colour Print by offset lithography Withdrawal date: 2 April 2020 7

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MAKING SPACE FOR NEW ZEALAND Haritina Mogoșanu is the Executive Director of the New Zealand Astrobiology Network. Her area of expertise is planetary protection, international security and science communication. She is also the Senior Science Communicator for Museums Wellington, Space Place at Carter Observatory. Haritina took some time to tell us why she thinks New Zealand is special when it comes to exploring the space sciences.

Why is New Zealand such a good location for astronomers?

New Zealand is one of the best places in the world to observe the stars.

Anywhere on this latitude is good, but only New Zealand, South America and parts of Australia have land masses along it. Only at this latitude does the centre of our galaxy, the Milky Way, climb all the way up to Zenith (overhead). We can see more stars at the centre of the galaxy, which looks toward the constellations Scorpius and Sagittarius, than we can when we look towards the edge of our galaxy, which is what we do when we look at Orion, for instance. Our side of the world is tilted towards the centre of the galaxy and the Northern Hemisphere is tilted towards the edge of the galaxy.

New Zealand has little light pollution compared to many other parts of the world.

And last, but not least, we are quite isolated here in the Southern Hemisphere, which from an astronomy point of view is really great. New Zealand’s location is so good that it was chosen to be the location for the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) telescope, a collaboration between NASA and the German Aerospace Center.

In what ways have New Zealanders contributed to space research and innovation?

From early astronomers to modern scientists, entrepreneurs and leaders in the space industry, New Zealanders have contributed to space research and innovation for decades. Hundreds of scientists have contributed simply by conducting research in their fields. For example, Antarctica studies are very much related to space, as are studies about biosecurity, which is related to planetary protection. Work also continues in fields such as artificial intelligence, robotics and specialist materials - all areas in which the New Zealand experience is helping in our drive to understand and support space exploration.

Why should we celebrate our space pioneers?

Because they are an inspiration. They had the courage to follow their dreams and engage with the subjects they loved - sometimes against the odds. That courage and strength led to their reinventing themselves and going where no-one had gone before. That’s how progress is achieved, by pushing boundaries. This is something we should always celebrate. It’s also about the Kiwi way: New Zealanders went there and did stuff, they weren't intimidated by our country being isolated; on the contrary, they found strength in that. It’s why we also celebrate Sir Edmund Hillary for climbing the highest mountain and Kate Sheppard for fighting for universal suffrage. They are part of our identity.

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nzpost.co.nz/stamps

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Many people know that New Zealand is one of the best places in the world to study space and, in particular, astrobiology. They know how amazing our night sky is and how astronomy is an excellent fit for New Zealand. But they may not know that New Zealand's diverse geological landscape also has a part to play. For example, the environment in Rotorua is very similar to that in the United States Yellowstone National Park and the McMurdo Dry Valleys in Antarctica. Research into the organisms that live in these extreme environments is helping us to learn about possible life on Mars or on Europa, Jupiter's satellite. New Zealand’s makeup is diverse in terms of people. And lastly, New Zealand was founded by people with the courage to make great expeditions, just like the space expeditions of the future will be. So New Zealand is in fact the perfect place to undertake space research and understand what the future might look like.

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What's something about New Zealand's contribution to space research that more people should know?

Focus issue 67 - April 2019

NEW ZEALAND SPACE PIONEERS

What's the future looking like for New Zealand's role in space exploration?

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Over the years, many people have asked me why we should research space here in New Zealand, that we have no knowledge of space, nor the infrastructure.

The reality is so different from that. New Zealand already has a vibrant space industry, research has been done for decades in disciplines that are relevant to space exploration, and New Zealand has given to the world waves of people who contribute knowledge to space exploration. We have had ‘space’ in New Zealand for a very long time, and now’s the time to acknowledge this. With the formation of the New Zealand Space Agency in 2016, we now have the leadership capability and strategic direction to integrate all our resources. The future can only be bright as we fully establish New Zealand’s place in space, and are further enabled to contribute to the world’s efforts.

The New Zealand Space Pioneers stamps and coin are available to pre-order now.

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The Year of the Pig One of the world’s most ancient traditions, New Year is the most important event in the Chinese calendar.

As a multicultural society, New Zealand is treated to an exciting range of cultural festivals throughout the year. The Chinese New Year is celebrated with traditional decorations, food, costumes and rituals. The celebrations offer the opportunity for Kiwis to experience a vibrant and unique culture, while the local Chinese community can showcase its talents.

The 2019 Year of the Pig began on 5 February. According to the Chinese lunisolar calendar, people born in the Year of the Pig tend to be straightforward, kind-hearted and generous. They enjoy spending time and sharing things with others, although their openminded, trusting, fun-loving attitude and tendency to say ‘yes’ can leave them open to being taken advantage of. While Pigs are generally relaxed, easy on themselves and often romantic, they’re also straight-talkers with a strong and earnest sense of justice. They approach tasks assigned to them with energy and perseverance and complete them to the best of their abilities. They can be trusted to do a good job. In tough times though, Pigs can become emotional, spiral into a negative state of mind and lose all motivation. They can also be prone to judging others – a characteristic that can get them into trouble.

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$1.20 Calligraphy

$2.40 Paper-Cutting

Calligraphy (hanzi) is a unique art form that for centuries has been a key part of Chinese culture, traditions and everyday life. Today, couplet-writing and calligraphy continue to have an essential role in Chinese New Year celebrations, and this year they feature in the design of the $1.20 Year of the Pig stamp.

Paper-cutting (jianzhi) is a 1,500-year-old form of Chinese folk-art in which the people and animals of folktales and legends are recreated in a huge variety of shapes, sizes and colours.

Paper-cut animals of the Chinese zodiac are popular features at Chinese New Year, when they’re used for decoration and as gifts for family and friends visiting from afar.

$3.00 The Pig

$3.60 State Highway 85

The origins of the rare Arapawa pig are clouded in mystery, but it’s said that explorer Captain James Cook introduced them to New Zealand’s Arapaoa Island (in the Marlborough Sounds) when he visited almost 250 years ago. This stamp connects New Zealand to China and Chinese New Year with an Arapawa pig depicted in line art.

State Highway 85, in the South Island of New Zealand, is also known as the ‘Pig Route’. One of the popular stories behind the name dates back to the gold rush of the 1880s when, it’s said, wild pigs would approach the miners’ horses and rub noses with them. Today, the highway is the main route between Alexandra and Central Otago.

nzpost.co.nz/stamps

2019 Scenic Definitives - Issue date: 5 June 2019 On 1 July 2019, New Zealand Post will be increasing the required postage on certain services for sending letters and parcels within New Zealand and overseas. Three new definitive stamps will be issued to accommodate this change, as well as one re-issue. They feature attractions brought to us by both nature and innovation – from captivating landscapes to stunning architecture.

Focus issue 67 - April 2019

Upcoming stamp issues The $2.60 stamp features the Paekākāriki Escarpment Walkway, a steep trek that rewards walkers with views of a stunning seascape. The iconic Dunedin Railway Station makes a reappearance in 2019, with a re-issue of the $3.30 stamp. Banks Peninsula is the star of the $3.90 stamp. This formerly volcanic peninsula encompasses two large harbours and numerous bays and coves teeming with marine wildlife, including the world's smallest and rarest dolphin. Otago’s Shotover River Valley features on the $4.50 stamp. A former hub of the gold rush, the Shotover River is still a destination for small-time gold seekers, but today it is primarily used for commercial jet boating and white-water rafting.

To view a full list of price changes, go to nzpost.co.nz/july2019.

Kupe - The Great Navigator - Issue date: 5 June 2019 According to tribal narratives, Kupe was the first Polynesian to discover the islands of New Zealand. Kupe's journey was triggered by difficulties with fishing in Hawaiki, his homeland, caused by a great octopus belonging to his competitor, Muturangi. Kupe set out in his canoe to kill the octopus, in a lengthy pursuit that took him all the way to New Zealand.

The arrival of Kupe is of great cultural importance, and many tribes are at pains to cite a relationship with him. It is said that his wife, Kuramārōtini, devised the name of Ao-tea-roa (‘long white cloud’) on seeing the North Island for the first time. Like Māui before him, Kupe’s arrival is a foothold in the land for Māori. These highly detailed stamps, illustrated by New Zealand artist Dave Burke, tell the story of Kupe’s journey.

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Latest stamps from Niue & Tokelau Fale Tau Tāoga Niue In 2004 Cyclone Heta destroyed most of the collection at the only museum in Niue. A new museum building was opened on 19 October 2018. These stamps feature examples of the tāoga (treasures) that have been collected to preserve Niue’s history and heritage. The items featured are an ulupuku (close-combat weapon), an uka (arrowroot grater), a tokotoko (walking stick) and a tulei sia (woven tray). These items were photographed by Huga Toke Talagi.

Date of issue: 19 October 2018 Designer: Saint Andrew Matautia, New Zealand Post, Wellington, New Zealand Printer: Collectables and Solutions Centre, New Zealand Post, Whanganui, New Zealand Withdrawal date: 18 October 2020

Tokelau - Inati | Equal Portions Unique to Tokelau, inati is a traditional community fishing and distribution system that is still used today. The act of sharing food equally helps these isolated island communities to ensure the wellbeing of all households, large and small.

These charming illustrated stamps highlight four traditional foods of Tokelau – taro, breadfruit, fish and coconut.

Date of issue: 1 May 2019 Designer: Saint Andrew Matautia, New Zealand Post, Wellington, New Zealand Printer: Collectables and Solutions Centre, New Zealand Post, Whanganui, New Zealand Withdrawal date: 30 April 2020

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nzpost.co.nz/stamps

Every year, New Zealand Post releases a pack of all the Personalised Postage labels produced during the previous calendar year. As well as the pack, the labels are available on a set of year of issue covers. Personalised Postage is a service that allows businesses to use their images or logos to create postage labels for special promotions and brand awareness. The packs and first day cover packs for 2018 are now available to order.

Focus issue 67 - April 2019

Personalised Postage packs

Combining Personalised Stamps with Personalised Postage Since 2001 New Zealand Post has offered a Personalised Stamp service, which enables customers to upload their images next to an official New Zealand Post stamp. In 2006 New Zealand Post started offering Personalised Postage. This product was primarily set up for businesses to help promote their brands.

Over time these products have proved very popular. However, we've been looking at how we can improve the services, and after consulting stakeholders in the philatelic community we have decided to combine the two products.

For customers who would like examples of the Personalised Postage labels issued between 1 Jan and 30 June 2019, this will be the last time that New Zealand Post offers this product as the quantity of the yearly issued pack will become significant.

If you have any questions about this change, please contact us at collectables@nzpost.co.nz.

This product will be available in sheets of 50 (gummed and self-adhesive), with a minimum order of one sheet. Available from 1 July 2019, the denominations will be $1.30, $2.40 and $3.30. This is subject to change.

While these products function like stamps, they're not part of the New Zealand Post official stamp and coin programme.

Previously we have offered an example to collectors, however we will not be able to offer the template of the product to customers. If you'd like an example for your collection you'll need to go online and order the product. We will also be discontinuing the Personalised Stamp miniature sheet usually issued at the time of each price adjustment.

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Recent coin issues Armistice 1918–2018

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On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, the guns fell silent along the Western Front. The First World War had effectively ended. To commemorate this important centenary and honour those who served, a series of official stamps and legal tender commemorative coins was issued in 2018.

Date of issue: October 2018 Designer: Dave Burke, Auckland, New Zealand Mint: 1oz silver proof 50 cent circulating coin: Mint of Norway 1oz silver proof 3-poppy coin: Royal Australian Mint Joint issue 3-poppy coin set: Royal Australian Mint, Mint of Norway, The Royal Mint 50-cent circulating coin: Royal Canadian Mint Worldwide mintage: 1oz silver proof 50 cent circulating coin: 1,500 – SOLD OUT 1oz silver proof 3-poppy coin: 1,000 – SOLD OUT Joint issue 3-poppy coin set: 1,111 – SOLD OUT 50-cent circulating coin: 2,000,000 – SOLD OUT

1oz silver proof 3-poppy coin

1oz silver proof 50 cent circulating coin

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Joint issue 3-poppy coin set

50-cent circulating coin

2019 New Zealand Proof Currency Set

The annual New Zealand Proof Currency Set includes proof versions of the 10-cent, 20-cent, 50-cent, one dollar and two dollar circulating coins. These currency coins celebrate Aotearoa’s unique culture, history and landscape. The 2019 set comes with a colour version of the 1oz silver proof 2019 New Zealand Annual Coin, North Island Takahē. Known by Māori as the mōho, this extinct rail was first identified by bones found in the North Island of New Zealand in the mid-19th century. The European discovery of the mōho is intertwined with that of the South Island takahē.

Date of issue: January 2019 Designer: Dave Burke, Auckland, New Zealand Mint: BH Mayer's Kunstrpägeanstalt GmbH Worldwide mintage: 1,000

2019 New Zealand Annual Coin: North Island Takahē There is one reference to a possible European sighting of a mōho. It was reported that in 1894 a surveyor captured a large, unfamiliar blue bird in the northern Ruahine Range, causing great excitement among Māori elders who were shown the skin. This specimen has not survived, but it is tentatively regarded as having been a North Island takahē.

Date of issue: January 2019 Designer: Dave Burke, Auckland, New Zealand Mint: BH Mayer's Kunstrpägeanstalt GmbH Worldwide mintage: 1,500

Māui and the Goddess of Fire The tales of Māui span the many islands of Polynesia, and varying accounts of the fabled demi-god’s deeds have been passed down through the centuries. This coin set tells the story of how Māui brought fire to the world by tricking the goddess Mahuika into relinquishing all of her flaming fingernails.

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Date of issue: February 2019 Designer: David Hakaraia, Wellington, New Zealand Mint: BH Mayer's Kunstrpägeanstalt GmbH Worldwide mintage: 2 x 1oz silver proof coins: 500 2 x 1/2oz gold proof coins: 150

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SO

2 x 1oz silver proof coins 14

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2 x 1/2oz gold proof coins nzpost.co.nz/stamps

Focus issue 67 - April 2019

Upcoming coins New Zealand Lighthouses: Tiritiri Matangi - Issue date: May 2019 Many of New Zealand’s original lighthouses are still in operation, enabling safe passage around our treacherous coast and into harbours. New Zealand’s oldest operational lighthouse illuminates the approach to the City of Sails, Auckland. The original tower now houses a modern light, monitored remotely from Wellington, New Zealand’s capital.

This stunning 1oz silver proof coin shows this classic structure standing over koru-like motifs, representing the churning sea. Its ultraviolet ink light beam is visible only under black light.

Kupe - The Great Navigator - Issue date: June 2019 According to tribal narratives, Kupe's journey was triggered by difficulties with fishing in Hawaiki, his homeland, caused by a great octopus belonging to his competitor, Muturangi. Kupe ventured out in his canoe to kill the octopus, in a lengthy pursuit that brought him all the way to New Zealand. With a companion known as Ngake (or Ngahue) in another canoe called Tāwhirirangi, he pursued the creature all the way to Cook Strait (known as Raukawakawa), where it was finally destroyed. The arrival of Kupe of great cultural importance, and many tribes are at pains to cite a relationship to him. It is said that his wife, Kuramārōtini, devised the name of Ao-tea-roa (‘long white cloud’) on first sight of the North Island.

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New Zealand Space Pioneers - Issue date: July 2019 In 2019 the world will celebrate 50 years since the first Moon landing, offering New Zealand a chance to reflect on our own country’s contribution to space sciences. This 1oz silver proof coin depicts a view of Earth from behind the Moon. New Zealand is visible and above it hangs the Southern Cross, in a nod to the stars on New Zealand’s flag. The rim of the coin is designed to look like the inside of a rocket or space station window.

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World Money Fair, Berlin New Zealand Post attends three key coin shows a year around the globe, and the World Money Fair in Berlin is the biggest of all. The Berlin show provides us with a great opportunity to connect to our customers, suppliers, dealers and mints. It also helps us to navigate the market, see the trends, explore new territories and opportunities, and collaborate. It's a place for all of the official mints to share their successes and experiences and discuss the issues and challenges the coin world is facing.

For New Zealand Post, Berlin is a huge opportunity to showcase our coin products to a wider international audience.

There are also product launches and media releases during the show. The World Money Fair additionally provides an opportunity for beginners entering the coin world to learn more about the industry. There is also a technical forum where visitors can see new, innovative machines and the latest technology that is evolving constantly and helping to take the coin industry to a new level.

It's fascinating to see the eye-popping designs and unique and innovative products that are available.

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FIAP International Stamp Exhibition

NZ2020 will be the first international stamp exhibition held in New Zealand since the successful NZ1990 World Stamp Exhibition. To be hosted at the Ellerslie Event Centre, Auckland, NZ2020 is held under the patronage of the Federation of Inter-Asian Philately (FIAP). There will be 1,200 frames available for exhibits from FIAP member countries in all FIAP classes, including Picture Postcards.

A wide range of dealers and postal agencies will be in attendance.

Stand layouts and rentals for dealers and postal administrations have been finalised. Full details, including an application form, can be found on the NZ2020 website.

An Exhibit Application Form will be required to be with NZ2020 by 31 October 2019. The form, as well as the supplementary Literature Information Form, is available on the website.

If you would like to provide financial support for NZ2020, you can join the supporters’ club. Supporters will be provided with products and services in return.

For further information, visit nz2020.nz.

Credit: Google Maps

Philatelic calendar Here's a look at what's coming up in the philatelic community.

APRIL 13

Central Districts EXPO 10am to 4pm, Leisure Centre, 569 Ferguson Street, Palmerston North South Auckland Stamp Fair 10am to 3.30pm, Methodist Church Hall, 37-39 Kolmar Road, Papatoetoe

20

Christchurch Stamp & Postcard Fair 9am to 12pm, Philatelic Centre, 67 Mandeville Street, Christchurch

MAY 4

Christchurch Stamp & Postcard Fair 9am to 12pm, Philatelic Centre, 67 Mandeville Street, Christchurch Browns Bay Stamp Fair 9am to 3.30pm, Senior Citizens Rooms, 9 Inverness Road, Browns Bay

11

Whangarei Stamp Fair 10am to 3pm, St John's Church Centre, 149 Kamo Road, Whāngārei

18

Christchurch Stamp & Postcard Fair 9am to 12pm, Philatelic Centre, 67 Mandeville Street, Christchurch

JUNE 1

Christchurch Stamp & Postcard Fair 9am to 12pm, Philatelic Centre, 67 Mandeville Street, Christchurch Browns Bay Stamp Fair 9am to 3.30pm, Senior Citizens Rooms, 9 Inverness Road, Browns Bay

11-17

China 2019 World Stamp Exhibition Wuhan International Expo Center, 619 Yingwu Avenue, Hanyang, Wuhan, China

13-16

Sydney Stamp & Coin Expo Johnny Warren Sports Centre, Penhurst Park, King Georges Road, Hurstville, Sydney, Australia

30

Christchurch Stamp & Postcard Fair 9am to 12pm, Philatelic Centre, 67 Mandeville Street, Christchurch

This schedule was correct at the time of print and is subject to change. For further information, contact the New Zealand Philatelic Federation.

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nzpost.co.nz/stamps

Focus issue 67 - April 2019

Puzzle time

Across

Down

1. Botanists believe that some of New Zealand’s alpine plants could have dispersed from Australia, New Guinea, South America and _________. (10)

2. What is the name of our galaxy? (3, 5, 3)

3. Which animals does lighthouse caretaker Steve Knapp say he’s been chased by while on duty? (5) 4. Which port does Tiritiri Matangi lighthouse serve? (8) 6. The Pig Route (or Pigroot) is the main highway between Alexandra and __________. (7,5)

3. Which constellation features on the New Zealand Space Pioneers coin? (8,5) 5. Where is Laurie Hall Park, where the annual Anzac Dawn Service at the Field of Remembrance is held? (9) 9. What is the acronym for the flying observatory made in a collaboration between NASA and the German Aerospace Center? (5)

7. What is the extinct North Island takahē also known as? (4) 8. What is the English translation for the Niuean word tokotoko? (7, 5) 10. Where is the annual World Money Fair held? (6) 11. According to the Chinese lunisolar calendar, in February 2019 we welcomed in the Year of the ___. (3)

ANSWERS: See page 19 17

International stamps Hong Kong Cantonese Opera Repertory

Hong Kong

Date of issue: 9 November 2018

Hong Kong Characters in Jin Yong's Novels Date of issue: 6 December 2018 Set of six gummed stamps $5.20

First day cover with $10 gummed stamp sheetlet affixed $3.30

Set of six gummed stamps $5.50

Stamp sheetlet with one $10 gummed stamp $4.90

First day cover with six gummed stamps affixed $6.50 First day cover with six gummed stamps affixed $6.20

Pitcairn Islands Pitcairn from the Air Date of issue: 12 December 2018

The Bicentenary of Ying Wa College Date of issue: 9 October 2018

First day cover with gummed sheetlet affixed $3.40 Set of four gummed stamps $11.40

Stamp sheetlet with one gummed stamp $2.40

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First day cover with four gummed stamps affixed $13.40 nzpost.co.nz/stamps

Pitcairn Big Blue Octopus

Focus issue 67 - April 2019

Pitcairn 100th Anniversary Commemorating the End of World War One

Date of issue: 19 September 2018

Date of issue: 11 November 2018

First day cover with gummed miniature sheet affixed $10.80

Stamp sheetlet with six gummed stamps $15.60

Gummed miniature sheet $8.80

PUZZLE TIME ANSWERS First day cover with gummed stamps affixed $17.60

Across: 1. Antarctica, 3. Seals, 4. Auckland, 6. Central Otago, 7. Mōhō, 8. Walking stick, 10. Berlin, 11. Pig Down: 2. The Milky Way, 3. Southern Cross, 5. Whāngārei, 9. SOFIA

2019NEWZEALAND ANNUALCOIN

NORTH ISLAND

TAKAHE

SILVERPROOFCOIN

RRP: $139.00

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DAWN SERVICE

nzpost.co.nz/2019anzac

/NZStampandCoins