Focus magazine number 71, April 2021

April 2021| Issue 71

2021 America’s Cup Holiday at Home Queen Elizabeth II Ninety-Fifth Birthday Discover New Zealand

Contents We’ve upgraded............................................................................... 3 Holiday at Home...........................................................................4-5 Recent stamp issues...................................................................6-7 Queen Elizabeth II Ninety-Fifth Birthday..............................8-9 Upcoming stamp issues.............................................................. 10 2021 Year of the Ox festivals..................................................... 11 Pride............................................................................................ 12-13 Latest stamps from Niue............................................................ 13 Recent coin issues.................................................................. 14-16 A new series of coins to treasure............................................. 17 Staff Profile: Christine Lovett.................................................... 18 2021 America’s Cup...................................................................... 19

Cover image: Holiday at Home 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 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.

ISSN 1177-729X (Print) ISSN 2703-4569 (Online)

Please note:

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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.

Kia ora, welcome!

So much has been happening in the past six months and I’m delighted to be able to update you on the exciting projects we’ve embarked on. After a mammoth effort from key members of our team, we were able to launch our new online shopping platform in February. With the whole system upgraded, we’re now able to offer a smoother shopping experience for old and new customers alike. As with any major IT project, there have been minor hiccups along the way, and we thank you for your patience while we settle in to our new online environment. For now, we hope you are enjoying the new website and we welcome your feedback.

A thrilling final race in the 36th America’s Cup saw Emirates Team New Zealand take the Auld Mug once again on 17 March.

To celebrate this historic win, we issued a six-stamp sheet showcasing Te Rehutai in action. Issued in anticipation of the America’s Cup yacht race, New Zealand’s sailing achievements were also celebrated in our stamp issue RNZYS 150. These stamps were designed and illustrated by long-time New Zealand Post designer John Morris, whose detailed renderings of yachts through the years have been well received by stamp collectors and yachting enthusiasts alike.

As we continue to navigate life in a pandemic that has changed the way we work, travel and communicate, New Zealanders have been some of the lucky few citizens of the world to escape the worst impacts of COVID-19. With economic recovery on the agenda, Kiwis have been encouraged to plug the international tourism gap by making the most of the opportunities to take part in a little domestic travel. In support of the Tourism New Zealand-led initiative Do Something NEW New Zealand, Holiday at Home was issued as a sheet of nine stamps. Designed by Ying-Min Chu, the stamps showcase some of the delightful destinations and adventurous activities available for residents of New Zealand to enjoy while we wait to welcome back international visitors.

In the commemorative space, Queen Elizabeth II, the Queen of New Zealand, turns 95 years of age in 2021. To celebrate this milestone, we’ve issued a set of four stamps that looks back over the storied and unique life of our monarch.

Commemorative coins will also be issued, focusing on the symbolic mānuka, a native flower famous for its healing honey and which represents the Queen’s special relationship with Aotearoa New Zealand.

In February, for the first time, New Zealand Post issued a stamp celebrating New Zealand’s Rainbow communities. Pride is celebrated throughout February and March each year, and 2021 marks the 35th anniversary of the passing of the Homosexual Law Reform Act, a landmark piece of legislation that decriminalised relationships between men. In the same year, New Zealand’s first Pride event was held as communities campaigned for this historic change.

Finally, we showcase the new Discover New Zealand series, with the third coin, available in May, celebrating the endemic kōwhai tree. Keep an eye out for future additions to this special range of silver coins.

I hope you enjoy this issue of Focus.

Antony Harris Head of Stamps and Coins collectables.nzpost.co.nz

New Zealand Post Collectables has taken a step up in the digital world with a brand-new shopping platform. The two former websites - stamps.nzpost.co.nz and coins.nzpost.co.nz - have been migrated to a single, easy-to-use platform - collectables.nzpost.co.nz. We want to make the online experience with New Zealand Post Collectables better than ever, and with state-of-the-art functionality, you’ll have a better view of products that interest you.

Focus issue 71 - April 2021

We’ve upgraded

So, what’s new?

All our collectables in one place: You have access to all our stamps, coins, medallions and other collectables on one easy-to-use platform.

Mobile responsive: Our website is now easily accessible on any device, meaning you can check out our products wherever you go and making your mobile experience smoother and faster.

Stock: You can order products that are temporarily out of stock.

Reviews: Our new review functionality means you can provide your feedback for others to see.

What we’re doing better: Security: You can be assured that our website has the most up-to-date, industry-standard security measures, meaning your personal information is kept secure and confidential.

Clarity: You can identify clearly the products that are available for pre-order and when they will be available for immediate shipping.

Search: Filtering functionality makes products easier to find.

Future proofing: Rebuilding our website means we’re able to take advantage immediately of any new digital technology that benefits you, our customer. This includes industry-standard security requirements, and up-to-date software for our eCommerce platform.

Product recommendations: Product recommendations and related products are tailored for you based on what you view on the website.

Filtering: You can filter products based on your preferences and requirements, so you can find what you’re looking for.

Order tracking: You can track where your order is in the delivery process.

Visit collectables.nzpost.co.nz today to see all our available products.

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Holiday at Home Our February stamp issue celebrated the joys of the domestic holiday. While New Zealanders are unable to travel freely overseas, they have great opportunities to explore their own country, which is a popular international tourist destination.

2021 Year of the Ox designer Ying-Min Chu took on the challenge of representing the Kiwi holiday experience in a sheet of nine stamps, using vibrant, retro-chic illustrations to evoke the holiday hotspots and hidden gems of Aotearoa New Zealand. Ying tells us more about her approach to design.

What’s your background as a designer?

My love of design began when I discovered a blackletter calligraphy book at the library as a child. I was obsessed with font books and began tracing the letters for the title pages of my workbooks. This led me to study visual communications design at Massey University Wellington. I was hired by Designworks as a graduate designer. I worked in the design industry for more than 10 years before starting my own design studio, YMC. What’s your approach to design and what do you enjoy about it?

My approach to design is simple. I believe in well-thought-out concepts that are beautifully executed. I enjoy the process of crafting typography, colour and illustrations to tell a story that resonates with the audience.

What makes designing stamps different to other kinds of design work?

Designing stamps is so special and a huge privilege. Stamps are objects that celebrate and document social and historical change.

I feel so lucky that I can contribute to creating these cultural artefacts. I treat them as mini art works, so it’s rewarding knowing they are appreciated by collectors around the world.

Where did you find your inspiration for Holiday at Home?

I was inspired by the game ‘I spy with my little eye’. It’s the driving game my siblings and I would play when we were travelling.

The game is nostalgic to me as it brings up many memories of road trips around New Zealand as a child. This became the central idea for the stamp series, as it evokes the joy of discovering hidden gems around New Zealand.

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Focus issue 71 - April 2021

What’s your dream New Zealand holiday?

My dream New Zealand holiday would be taking my family somewhere where we can be present in each other’s company, and stop, relax and not be on a schedule. A place with sand, ice cream, trees, birds and the sea. Enjoying simple pleasures, like melting ice cream, sand between my toes and the sounds of the waves would be bliss. We are spoilt for choice for sweet spots to rejuvenate in New Zealand. A positive that’s come out of the pandemic is realising how much beauty we have in our own backyard.

I’m excited I’ll be making that dream come true in a few weeks, on a mini break to Raglan.

Is there anything else you’d like to say about designing stamps for New Zealand Post?

Designing stamps for New Zealand Post has been a real joy. Seeing my designs printed and come to life has been amazing. I’m excited to work with the team again on the next project.

Holiday at Home was issued on 3 February 2021. The stamp sheet will be available until 2 February 2022.

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Recent stamp issues Christmas 2020 The Christmas stamps for 2020 told the Nativity story through four beautiful stained-glass-windowinspired illustrations, with a magnificent twist.

For the first time ever, New Zealand Post created an interactive experience with stamps. Simply download the Magenta app onto your smartphone and use it to scan each stamp for an augmented reality experience. You’ll be guided through the story as the stamps highlight the annunciation, the birth of Jesus, the star of Bethlehem and the wise men’s gifts.

Date of issue: 4 November 2020 Designer: Jon Ward, New Zealand Post, Wellington, New Zealand Printer: Southern Colour Print by offset lithography Withdrawal date: 3 November 2021

2021 Year of the Ox The 2021 Year of the Ox stamps take inspiration from the Chinese Nianhua poster tradition. These posters are created specifically to commemorate the arrival of a new year. The style of the posters has its origins in woodblock printing made popular during the Ming dynasty. Back then, various motifs were used, from portraits of immortal gods to illustrations of mythical stories and depictions of beautiful babies.

By referencing the Nianhua poster, the stamps create a connection between Chinese New Zealanders and the ancient cultural practices of mainland China.

Date of issue: 2 December 2020 Designer: Ying-Min Chu, Wellington, New Zealand Printer: Southern Colour Print by offset lithography Withdrawal date: 1 December 2021

Holiday at Home Take a journey across New Zealand and discover the adventures available in Aotearoa with Holiday at Home. These delightful, retro-chic stamps highlight some of the sights and experiences Kiwis can enjoy in their own backyard.

Kiwis country wide are being encouraged to give domestic tourism a go and take the opportunity to discover something they’ve never seen before, be wowed by New Zealand’s spectacular natural wonders or simply find new ways to have fun.

While we wait for the world to safely open up again, Kiwis can holiday at home and enjoy the exciting array of activities New Zealand has on offer. With a play on the classic road trip game ‘I spy’, these nine charming stamps highlight some of the major holiday hotspots and hidden gems of Aotearoa New Zealand.

Date of issue: 3 February 2021 Designer: Ying-Min Chu, Wellington, New Zealand Printer: Southern Colour Print by offset lithography Withdrawal date: 2 February 2022

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2021 marks 35 years since the Homosexual Law Reform Act was passed in New Zealand, a landmark piece of legislation that meant homosexual men could live without fear of prosecution.

Pictured on the 2021 Pride stamp, Daniel Quasar’s Progress Pride Flag is an evolution of Gilbert Baker’s six-stripe pride flag, with five arrowshaped lines added to the rainbow flag to focus on the current needs of the community.

Focus issue 71 - April 2021

Pride

Date of issue: 3 February 2021 Designer: Cam Price, New Zealand Post, Wellington, New Zealand Printer: Southern Colour Print by offset lithography Withdrawal date: 2 February 2022

RNZYS 150 In its 150-year history, the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (RNZYS) has kept pace with astonishing developments in yacht design and technology, from the wood-and-cotton era through to the space-age carbon-fibre and titanium materials in use today.

Ending with Te Rehutai, the stamps in this collection chart the arc of New Zealand’s sailing history with four key competitive yachts.

Date of issue: 3 March 2021 Designer: John Morris, New Zealand Post, Wellington, New Zealand Printer: Southern Colour Print by offset lithography Withdrawal date: 2 March 2022

2021 America’s Cup On 17 March 2021, Emirates Team New Zealand entered the history books with their successful defence of the prestigious America’s Cup yacht race, winning it for a fourth time. On the seventh day of the 36th America’s Cup, the team took out the Auld Mug with a spectacular performance that saw them pull out more than 500 metres ahead of Luna Rossa Prada Perelli. By the final gate, the Kiwis took the right-hand mark 49 seconds ahead of the Italians as they headed off on the last leg of what would become the exhilarating final race.

Date of issue: 17 March 2021 Designer: John Morris, New Zealand Post, Wellington, New Zealand Printer: Collectables and Solutions Centre, New Zealand Post, Whanganui, New Zealand Withdrawal date: 16 March 2022

Queen Elizabeth II NinetyFifth Birthday In some countries the monarchy is associated with the rose and thistle, but in New Zealand it is associated with the silver fern and the mānuka flower. The monarchy in New Zealand is a modern, multicultural institution woven into the fabric of the country.

In celebration of Queen Elizabeth II’s 95th birthday and her connection to New Zealand, this set of four stamps depicts Her Majesty through the years.

Date of issue: 7 April 2021 Designer: Nicky Dyer, Wellington, New Zealand Printer: Southern Colour Print by offset lithography Withdrawal date: 6 April 2022

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Queen Elizabeth II Ninety-Fifth Birthday It has become a long-standing tradition for New Zealand Post to issue commemorative coins and stamps to mark significant milestones in the history of Aotearoa’s monarchy. Their subject matter has invariably captured the hearts and minds of many people, in this country and around the world, for well over a century. New Zealand’s unique relationship with the monarchy brings a fresh perspective to this ancient institution, writes Sean Palmer, Chair of Monarchy New Zealand.

The monarchy is a truly international institution, one shared by many countries around the world. Queen Elizabeth II is the sovereign of 16 independent nations. Each of these diverse countries, from Papua New Guinea to Canada, from Jamaica to New Zealand, has freely chosen to be a constitutional monarchy and to give the role of Head of State to the Queen.

In doing so, each nation has modified the monarchy to suit its own needs and cultural preferences. As a result, the monarchy is associated with many different symbols, places, plants, and animals in each of these nations.

New Zealand has been particularly successful in demonstrating its own distinctive interpretation of the monarchy. Nowhere else in the world would members of the royal family deliver messages in te reo Māori, the Māori language. Nowhere else would they have korowai (feathered cloaks) or other taonga (treasures) for use in national ceremonies. In some countries, the monarchy is associated with the rose and thistle, but here it is associated with the silver fern and the mānuka flower, as can be seen in the insignia of the New Zealand Royal Honours system. Beyond these symbols, there are few other places in the world where members of the royal family can be as informal and as accessible to the public as they are here in New Zealand. The monarchy in New Zealand is a modern, multicultural institution woven into the fabric of the country.

It would be a misconception to think that the Queen’s role is purely ceremonial. First and foremost, the sovereign is part of our constitution. Her job is to ensure that there is an elected government in place, to give effect to laws passed by Parliament, and to appoint officials. All of this she does on the advice of duly elected advisors, Ministers in general and Prime Ministers in particular.

Nevertheless, it has long been recognised that in a constitutional crisis, she might have to exercise her own judgement in some of these matters. Other countries around the world have seen the monarchy intervene in defence of democracy. We are fortunate that it hasn’t happened in New Zealand, but having a neutral person able to call an election in a political emergency is a very valuable democratic safeguard.

Queen Elizabeth II Ninety-Fifth Birthday stamps, first day covers, presentation pack and Limited Edition were issued on 7 April 2021. The coins in this issue are due for release at a future date.

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Focus issue 71 - April 2021

The monarchy has been an important part of the New Zealand national family for almost two centuries. Many members of the royal family have worked their entire lives for this country, always ready to provide whatever assistance the government might request. For many generations, they have been with us through the good times and bad. In times of triumph, they have celebrated with us, sending messages, making visits, and holding receptions. In times of tragedy they have offered condolences, donated to recovery efforts, and drawn the attention of the world to the unfolding events.

In New Zealand the Queen represents the Crown, one partner in te Tiriti o Waitangi. It is a unique role and one whose importance should not be overlooked. The Queen’s great-greatgrandmother, Queen Victoria, lent her name to the Treaty of Waitangi more than 180 years ago. It is clear that members of the royal family today continue to treasure their relationships with the original inhabitants of this land. It is not surprising that the monarchy, as an institution, resonates with traditional Māori tikanga (protocols). The importance of ancestry and whakapapa (genealogy) and the concept of mana are all expressed in the nature of the monarchy. The relationship that Queen Elizabeth currently has with Māori is an extension of the bond that was initiated by her direct ancestor six generations ago. Of course, as with all families, the relationship is not confined to the past. Queen Elizabeth’s great-grandson, Prince George, is third in line to the throne. He will carry on his family’s legacy and build on its connections to this country and its people into the 22nd century.

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Upcoming stamp issues Sarah Featon - Botanical Artist - Issue date: 5 May 2021 The Art Album of New Zealand Flora was the first full-colour art book published in New Zealand. It was produced by the Wellington-based firm Bock and Cousins, well-known stamp engravers at the time, and was praised as a ‘colonial work of art’.

Firmly grounded in science, it also had popular appeal and shared mātauranga, Māori knowledge. Today, Sarah Featon’s vibrant watercolours are celebrated as works of art in their own right.

Sarah and her husband Edward hoped the art album would inspire a love of New Zealand’s flora. Many of the plants illustrated and described by the Featons are now widely cultivated in botanic and home gardens around the world.

Date of issue: 5 May 2021 Designer: Hannah Fortune, New Zealand Post, Wellington, New Zealand Printer: Southern Colour Print, Dunedin

Whānau Mārama - Family of Light - Issue date: 3 June 2020 Tamanuiterā (the Sun) and Marama (the Moon) together with Ngā Whetū Matariki (the Pleiades star cluster) make up the family of heavenly bodies known as Te Whānau Mārama (The Family of Light).

Knowledge of the relationship between these celestial bodies has been handed down over time through wānanga (schools of learning) and pūrakau (folk stories) of Māori. This knowledge is integral to Māori tikanga (custom and practice) and is especially relevant to the whenūa (land) - agriculture, planting, harvesting - and the moana (oceans) - fishing, navigation and weather.

A reacceptance of Matariki by Aotearoa New Zealand as a time to celebrate the Māori New Year has seen a rekindled interest in this old Māori knowledge. Tshis stamp issue illustrates the stories that have carried them through the generations.

Date of issue: 7 July 2021 Designer: Dave Burke, Tauranga, New Zealand Printer: Southern Colour Print, Dunedin

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The Lunar New Year is an increasingly significant cultural festival celebrated in New Zealand each year. For the past 24 years, New Zealand Post has commemorated the occasion with sets of stamps and other collectable products.

The Year of the Ox was no exception, and we were delighted to attend both the Auckland and Wellington Chinese New Year festivals in January and February to share our products and celebrate the new year. Programme Manager Lynette Townsend tells us more about presenting our new designs by Ying-Min Chu.

Focus issue 71 - April 2021

2021 Year of the Ox

In Auckland, the festival was opened by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, adding ceremony to the occasion and reinforcing the importance of the Lunar New Year as an important community event in Aotearoa New Zealand. A crowd of predominantly new Chinese New Zealanders was in attendance. Many people spoke Chinese as their first language and a large number were after gifts to send to family and friends in China. Despite the smaller-than-usual crowd, the festival was buzzing with a sense of celebraton.

In Wellington, Chinese Kiwis and New Zealanders of all backgrounds flocked to explore Chinese New Year keepsakes.

This year we issued a commemorative pin which was popular in the capital. Customers enjoyed being able to buy our gold products, the premium collectables in our Year of the Ox range.

At both events we were delighted to receive positive feedback on our new stamp and medallion designs. The Year of the Ox designs mark a new design direction that we will continue for the several years. Designer Ying-Min Chu visited our Wellington stall and was able to talk directly with customers about the products and her designs. It was a rich and enjoyable experience for the customers as well as Ying.

For me personally, it was very exciting and my first time representing New Zealand Post at public events. Every opportunity to engage directly with our customers is a golden opportunity, and this was certainly the case for the two Chinese New Year festivals.

Smita Sali and Lynette Townsend talk to members of the public at the Wellington Chinese New Year Festival.

2021 Year of the Ox stamps and collectables were issued on 2 December 2020. Stamps, presentation packs, pins, medallions and gold-foiled products are available now.

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Pride 2021 marks 35 years since the Homosexual Law Reform Act was passed in New Zealand, a landmark piece of legislation that meant homosexual men could live without fear of prosecution. Although the Stonewall riots (New York, 1969) are widely considered the birth of the international pride movement, New Zealand’s history of activism from its LGBTQIA+ community predates that historic event.

Ngahuia Te Awekotuku Takatāpui and Māori activist Ngahuia Te Awekotuku is rightfully known and respected as the ‘spark’ of gay liberation in New Zealand. She founded the first gay liberation group in Auckland in March 1972 after giving rousing speeches throughout the country, passionately urging queer people to come out of the closet. In April that same year, Ngahuia led gay activists on New Zealand’s very first pride protest, ‘Gay Day’. It took place in Auckland’s Albert Park under the statue of Queen Victoria, where activists chanted “when will Victorian morality die?”

In this photograph, Ngahuia is featured speaking at #OurMarch, Auckland’s pride march in 2020. Mirroring 1972’s Gay Day, the protest began under the same statue in Albert Park, with Ngahuia leading the way once again. Honouring our past by marching forward into the future.

Chrissy Witoko Chrissy Witoko embodied pride in a profound way that had a big impact on the communities around her. A staunch whakawahine who passed away in 2002, Chrissy was most well known as the proprietor of The Evergreen Coffee House, a safe space for queer communities, an organising hub for activist groups and a drop-in centre for sex workers.

Chrissy is remembered for her warmth and the way she built whanaungatanga. She was also the creative mind behind this collage, and the many others with which she proudly plastered the Evergreen’s walls - beautiful collages of friends and family which often featured magazine clippings and flyers from local businesses. These collages show queer people partying, having fun and grinning from ear to ear - the simple fact of their joy an expression of resistance and their unwillingness to cave in to queerphobia.

Chrissy Witoko collage collected by Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa.

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Pride was issued on 3 February 2021 as a single $1.40 stamp.

While stocks last, single stamps and stamp sheets will remain on sale until 2 February 2022. collectables.nzpost.co.nz

Focus issue 71 - April 2021

The campaign for reform This image, taken by David Hindley in Wellington on 24 May 1985, is surely one of the most joyful of the campaign for homosexual law reform. This protestor’s sign was one of many cheeky signs featured at the protest, including “Variety is the spice of life”, “Get you Normie” (in reference to anti-gay politician Norman Jones) and, hung around the neck of a dog, “I’m a gay bitch”.

The cheerful sign and brilliant smile of the activist in this photograph demonstrate the hope and humour gay activists used not only for the benefit of their campaign for equality, but for the benefit of eliminating the shame felt by others like themselves, by reclaiming gay as something to celebrate. Yay for gay!

A new pride flag Gilbert Baker’s six-stripe pride flag has been the internationally recognised symbol of LGBTQIA+ communities for more than 40 years, with its six distinct colours - red, orange, yellow, green, blue and violet. Pictured on the 2021 Pride stamp, the Progress Pride Flag is an evolution of this symbol, with five arrow-shaped lines added to the six-coloured rainbow flag to focus on the current needs of the community. Designed by Daniel Quasar in 2018, the flag incorporates the pink, blue and white of the Transgender Pride flag, alongside black and brown stripes from the More Color, More Pride flag designed by Amber Hikes to highlight racism within queer communities.

The added colours form a chevron arrow at the hoist of the flag, pointing to the right to show forward movement, while being situated along the left of the flag to show that progress still needs to be made.

Latest stamps from Niue Boys’ Brigade Niue - 75 Years Founded in Glasgow in 1883, the Boys’ Brigade is an interdenominational Christian youth organisation that now has more than 700,000 members in 60 countries. Grounded in Christian values, the Boys’ Brigade members participate in both drill and fun activities to foster character and discipline.

The Boys’ Brigade was established in Niue 75 years ago. This stamp issue commemorates the anniversary with images of past and present members and leaders, and the official Boys’ Brigade emblem.

Date of issue: 7 April 2021 Designer: Hannah Fortune, New Zealand Post, Wellington, New Zealand Printer: Collectables and Solutions Centre, New Zealand Post, Whanganui, New Zealand Withdrawal date: 6 April 2022

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Recent coin issues Discover New Zealand: Tūī Featuring a stunning photographic image of the tūī, a bird unique to Aotearoa New Zealand, this is the first coin in a new series celebrating New Zealand’s natural wonders. The tūī feeds from harakeke, New Zealand flax. This vivid image is framed by the engraved high-relief kaitiaki (guardian). The kaitiaki not only acts as a unifying feature that acknowledges Māori as tangata whenua (the people of the land), but is a minder or caregiver, protecting the taonga (treasure) encapsulated by the coin.

Date of issue: October 2020 Designer: Kaitiaki designed by Dave Burke, Tauranga, New Zealand Mint: Royal Dutch Mint Worldwide mintage: 1,000

Kākā This coin features an illustration of the endemic kākā painted by New Zealand artist Ben Timmins. In the background two ferns crown the bird, as a symbol of protection and guardianship. The ferns are engraved, and the background colour treated to give greater depth to the imagery and highlight the kākā painting.

Date of issue: December 2020 Designer: Ben Timmins, Taranaki, New Zealand Mint: Royal Dutch Mint Worldwide mintage: 1,000

2021 Kiwi Kiwi are equally cherished by all cultures in New Zealand. They are a symbol of the uniqueness of New Zealand wildlife and the value of our natural heritage. The bird itself is a taonga to Māori, who have strong cultural, spiritual and historical associations with kiwi.

The 2021 Kiwi coin features the brown kiwi Apteryx mantelli in an underground burrow with two eggs. The brown kiwi nest in short burrows, rocky crevices or the hollow bases of trees. The kiwi on this coin is likely male, as they do all the incubation in this species. One or two large eggs can be laid any time of year, but the peak time is between June and November.

Date of issue: December 2020 Illustrator: Stephen Fuller, Wellington, New Zealand Designer: Helcia Knapp, Raumati, New Zealand Mint: BH Mayer’s Kunstprägeanstalt GmbH Worldwide mintage: 5oz silver proof coin: 350 1oz silver proof coin: 2,500 1oz silver specimen coin: 5,000 ¼oz gold proof coin: 500 5oz gold proof coin: 30

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New Zealand’s primary circulating 50c coin features HMS Endeavour, the ship on which Captain James Cook became the first Briton to reach New Zealand. Issued as part of the ‘smallest gold coins of the world’ series, this is the first-ever .5g gold replica of a New Zealand circulating currency coin.

New Zealand’s decimal currency has been in circulation since 1967 and, although reduced in size in 2006, the 50c coin still bears the original design.

Date of issue: December 2020 Designer: James Berry Mint: Mint of Norway Worldwide mintage: 3,000

Focus issue 71 - April 2021

New Zealand 50 Cent .5g gold proof coin

Pōhutukawa The pōhutukawa is a uniquely New Zealand tree that holds both iconic status and deep cultural significance for the people of Aotearoa. These magnificently gnarly evergreen trees can live for hundreds of years in their natural coastal environment. Some trees reach 1,000 years of age.

The pōhutukawa’s famous red flowers generally bloom only for a few weeks in December, and are a welcome sign that summer is coming.

They are accepted as New Zealand’s honorary Christmas tree. Christmas takes place in the warm summer months, and many New Zealanders will have memories of spending their Christmas holidays at the beach, where pōhutukawa are most abundant. Found throughout the North Island, particularly in the northern half, pōhutukawa grow best in warm, drier areas close to the sea, growing up to 20 metres high and 35 metres wide.

Date of issue: December 2020 Designer: Nick Clarkson, Wellington, New Zealand Mint: Royal Dutch Mint Worldwide mintage: 1,000

2021 New Zealand Annual Coin: Auckland Island Merganser Mergansers are fish-eating waterfowl. The Auckland Island merganser Mergus australis was first discovered in 1840 after two French corvettes arrived at the rarely visited Auckland Islands. In the following 60 years around 20 specimens were collected, and is thought there were probably no more than 30 breeding pairs at any one time. The last sighting was in 1902, and by 1910 the species had been declared extinct, primarily due to predation by introduced mammals, and collecting for museums.

This stunning coin features a coloured illustration of the extinct Auckland Island merganser, inspired by the few specimens that exist today. The merganser stands in front of the steep cliffs of the Auckland Islands, and a southern rātā, a native tree with bright red flowers. This 2oz coin has been minted at a 38.6-millimetre diameter, distinguishing it from other 2oz silver coins issued by New Zealand Post.

Date of issue: January 2021 Designer: Stephen Fuller, Wellington, New Zealand Mint: BH Mayer’s Kunstprägeanstalt GmbH Worldwide mintage: 500

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2021 New Zealand Proof Currency Set Alongside a 1oz silver proof version of the Auckland Island Merganser coin, this set features proof versions of New Zealand’s circulating currency coins.

Each coin is specially dated 2021. Collectively the coins feature many wellknown New Zealand symbols such as the Māori carved mask, known as a ‘kōruru’ on the 10-cent coin, and the HMS Endeavour, the ship of Captain James Cook, on the 50-cent coin.

Date of issue: January 2021 Designer - Auckland Island Merganser 1oz silver proof coin: Stephen Fuller, Wellington, New Zealand Mint - Auckland Island Merganser 1oz silver proof coin: BH Mayer’s Kunstprägeanstalt GmbH Mint - New Zealand proof currency coins: Royal Dutch Mint Worldwide mintage: 750

2021 Limited Edition New Zealand Proof Five-Coin Proof Set This limited-edition set features New Zealand’s iconic currency coins in magnificent proof quality. Each coin is specially dated 2021, and there are only 250 available worldwide.

Date of issue: January 2021 Mint: Royal Dutch Mint Worldwide mintage: 250

Discover New Zealand: Aoraki Mount Cook Featuring a beautiful illustration of Aoraki Mount Cook by New Zealand artist Ben Timmins, this coin is the second in the ‘Discover New Zealand’ series, a stream of coins showcasing New Zealand’s unique natural beauty. The coins in the series are united by a specially designed kaitiaki guardian - that sits at the base of each coin. The kaitiaki not only acts as a unifying feature that acknowledges Māori as tangata whenua (the people of the land), but is a minder or caregiver, protecting the taonga (treasure) encapsulated by the coin.

Date of issue: February 2021 Designer: Ben Timmins, Taranaki, New Zealand Mint: The Commonwealth Mint Worldwide mintage: 1,000

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In October 2020, New Zealand Post issued Discover New Zealand: Tūī, the first commemorative coin in a new stream of products showcasing New Zealand’s beauty and the natural wonders that make our place unique. The coins in this series are united by a specially designed kaitiaki (guardian), a protector of the taonga (treasure) encapsulated by the coin.

Focus issue 71 - April 2021

A new series of coins to treasure

Tūī - October 2020 This coin features a stunning photographic image of New Zealand’s endemic tūī.

Tūī are familiar to most New Zealanders, populating forests and suburbia throughout the country. While they look black from a distance, in good light their plumage boasts iridescent sheens of blue, green and bronze, and delicate white, lacy feathering around the neck. But it is the distinctive white throat tufts (poi) that are often the best sign you have spotted one.

Aoraki Mount Cook - February 2021 Te Waka-o-Aoraki is an early name for the South Island of New Zealand. According to local legend, the island is an overturned canoe, and the rugged peaks of the Southern Alps are Aoraki and his three brothers, turned to stone by the south wind.

Local iwi (tribe) Ngāi Tahu considers Aoraki to be the most sacred of the ancestors from whom they descend. The mountain is the physical embodiment of this ancestor and is a link between the supernatural and natural worlds.

Kōwhai - May 2021 The kōwhai is one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most cherished trees, its vibrant yellow blooms and the birds that flock to them welcome signs of spring. Some species are semi-deciduous, and their bounteous golden flowers appear before rows of small, round leaves join them.

The distinctive kōwhai flower is an icon that has featured on postage stamps and coins several times, including New Zealand’s former two-cent coin.

The Discover New Zealand series is part of New Zealand Post’s programme of legal tender commemorative coins issued on behalf of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. Find out more at collectables.nzpost.co.nz.

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Staff profile: Christine Lovett Christine Lovett is the Service Centre Manager at the Whanganui Collectables and Solutions Centre. She manages the dedicated staff who package, process and deliver all of New Zealand Post’s stamps, coins and other collectables. Chrissie has been with New Zealand Post for more than 25 years.

When did you join New Zealand Post and what was your role?

I joined what was known as the Philatelic Bureau in 1995 as a philatelic officer. In 2010 I became Operations Team Leader and in 2019 I stepped into the role of Service Centre Manager.

When I first started, I was part of a large team that put together our annual albums and annual stamp packs and collectables.

Today we are an efficient team of 21 in Whanganui, and we work alongside the six people in the Wellington team.

I would like to acknowledge the loss of two of our valued colleagues in 2020: Teresa Crowley (Customer Service) and John Arundel (Inventory Support). They are dearly missed by everyone here.

How would you describe your day-to-day role in 2021?

I recently faced some new challenges as Service Centre Manager, as did the rest of the world, as we figured out how to work under the conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic. We managed to stay focused and adapted quickly to new ways of working. We were proud that, despite the circumstances, we were still able to achieve a timely delivery of products.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is being involved with the development of design concepts and seeing them turned into high-quality products. I am very passionate about our stamps and coins and very proud to be in my position.

Tell us about your favorite stamp or coin issues and why you loved them.

There are quite a few to choose from, having been here for 25 years! I loved the artwork in the 2001 Art from Nature stamp issue. I love when we’re able to print stamps celebrating sporting wins - it makes me proud to be a Kiwi. I also love our quirky Kiwiana designs. My favourite coin issue was quite recent - Te Riu-a-Māui - Zealandia, which was issued in 2019 and sold out within 48 hours.

If you could do another job for a day, what would it be and why?

I’d be a PA for the Jane Barnes Band. I love music so it would be great fun.

Tell us something surprising about you.

I’m in my early 60s but I think it’s never to late to learn new things. I love to swim, so I’ve purchased a surf board.

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On 17 March 2021, Emirates Team New Zealand entered the history books with their successful defence of the prestigious America’s Cup, winning it for a fourth time. On the seventh day of the 36th America’s Cup, the team took out the Auld Mug with a spectacular performance that saw them pull out over 500 metres ahead of Luna Rossa Prada Perelli. By the final gate, the Kiwis took the righthand mark 49 seconds ahead of the Italians as they headed off on the last leg of what would become the exhilarating final race.

Focus issue 71 - April 2021

2021 America’s Cup

The America’s Cup, affectionately known as the Auld Mug, is the oldest active trophy in international sport. First contested in 1851, it predates the modern Olympics by 45 years.

The competition for this prestigious cup began when a schooner named America won a race around the Isle of Wight against a fleet of Britain’s finest boats. In 1857 the owners of America donated the cup to the New York Yacht Club. The cup was to become a ‘challenge trophy’ for friendly competition between foreign countries. And so began America’s 132-year winning streak and domination of the sport.

The America’s Cup is notoriously difficult to win. Since the first race more than 150 years ago, only four nations have been able to join the extremely exclusive winners’ circle, New Zealand being one of them. America successfully defended the cup 24 times, until in 1983 when they met their match and failed to beat Australia. The longest winning streak in history was finally broken.

New Zealand’s turn for victory came in 1995. Team New Zealand sailed to glory in their superior craft and the America’s Cup was welcomed with open arms back to the Southern Hemisphere. This was short-lived, and despite having their successful defending the cup in 2000, New Zealand farewelled the cup in 2003. After regaining the cup in 2017, Emirates Team New Zealand and Te Rehutai once again defended the cup for New Zealand after 10 races in Auckland. A commemorative stamp sheet was issued on the same day to celebrate the win.

2021 America’s Cup was issued on 17 March as a commemorative stamp sheet. Stamps will be available until 16 March 2022, while stocks last.

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Commemorating the legacy of the RNZYS and New Zealand’s world-class boat builders and sailors.