Recent coin issues Discover New Zealand: 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. Date of issue: May - June 2021 Designer: Stephen Fuller, Wellington, New Zealand. Kaitiaki designed by Dave Burke, Tauranga, New Zealand Mint: The Commonwealth Mint Worldwide mintage: 1,000
Tangaroa - Guardian of the Ocean Tangaroa is a deity described in Māori traditions as the kaitiaki (guardian) of all oceans and waters. He is one of the children of Ranginui (the sky father) and Papatūānuku (the earth mother), from whom life originates. Among various accounts throughout Aotearoa New Zealand and the Pacific, Tangaroa is identified as the father of sea creatures. In some traditions, the sea is thought to be where all life originated. In traditional carvings, Māori ancestors can resemble amphibians - animals that can live on both land and water - with snake-like bodies and large heads. The pūhoro (wave) motif that surrounds Tangaroa makes reference to his ability to control the tides and waves, as well as his strength and power as guardian of the seas and waterways. The pūhoro design traditionally refers to speed and agility, depicting the cutting or rippling effect of the water or waves when a waka (canoe) travels. The pūhoro design is often used to adorn the prows of waka. The sea creatures within the design represent the many stories, traditions and lineage of Tangaroa, including the tohora or whale. Whales are viewed as the guardians of navigators. According to Māori oral tradition, whales guided canoes to New Zealand, and the ancestor Paikea is said to have arrived riding a whale. Date of issue: May 2021 Designer: KE Design, Tolaga Bay, New Zealand Mint: BH Mayer’s Kunstprägeanstalt GmbH Worldwide mintage: Set of two 1oz silver proof coins: 400 Set of two ½oz gold proof coins: 150
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