Focus magazine number 73, April 2022

NZSO 75 Years Eid Mubarak Poppy Appeal 100 Years Historic Ships of the 19th Century

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Historic Ships of the 19th Century

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Kia ora, welcome!

Welcome to the first issue of Focus for 2022. A number of significant commemorations and anniversaries for New Zealand have already taken place this year, and we’re planning to celebrate as many of them as possible in our stamp programme.

First up for 2022 was the 75th anniversary of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra Te Tira Pūoro o Aotearoa in March. New Zealand’s national orchestra has enthralled thousands of audiences in the past three-quarters of a century, and continues to both entertain and educate despite the challenges of the pandemic. You can read more about the world-class ensemble’s legacy and our stamp issue NZSO 75 Years on page 3.

Also issued in March ahead of Anzac Day on 25 April, Poppy Appeal 100 Years celebrates the 100th anniversary of New Zealand’s longest-running charity street appeal. The stamps show five examples of poppies made throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, including the Royal New Zealand Returned and Services’ Association’s iconic design that has been used since the 1970s to raise money and show support for people affected by military service.

Another milestone that we celebrated in the early months of 2022 was the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. Marking Queen Elizabeth’s remarkable 70-year reign, a collection of exquisite coins designed by Wellington artist Sacha Lees was issued in partnership with the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. Each year NZ Post issues stamps and coins to celebrate Matariki, the Māori New Year. This year’s collectables coincide with an exciting change for the New Zealand public - the introduction of a Matariki public holiday. There are now 11 national public holidays in New Zealand, in addition to local anniversary days. A revival of Matariki in recent years has seen a growing presence in local festive calendars, and I’m sure a national holiday will further cement its place in our collective culture.

Matariki Day wasn’t the only change made by the government to be reflected in stamps this year. From 2022, the National Curriculum will include New Zealand history. Students up to year 10 will focus on three big themes - Māori history, the impacts of colonisation, and the exercise of power. Issued in February, the Historic Ships of the 19th Century stamp issue depicted contemporary paintings of historic encounters at sea as settlers arrived in New Zealand and began trading with Māori. They reflect an important moment in New Zealand’s history and offer an opportunity to have conversations about our nation’s past.

Since the days of colonisation, Aotearoa New Zealand has become a truly multicultural nation. For the first time, we’re delighted to acknowledge New Zealand’s Muslim communities with a stamp issue. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the month of daylight fasting in the Islamic religious calendar. The annual celebration is the most popular Muslim festival in the world and has been observed in New Zealand for more than 100 years. The stamps will be issued on 6 April, during Ramadan.

Finally, catch up on all our latest stamp and coin issues, and meet a new member of the NZ Post design team.

I hope you enjoy this issue of Focus

New milestones for our national orchestra

In 2022 the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra Te Tira Pūoro o Aotearoa (NZSO) marks 75 years of bringing the timeless joys of classical music to audiences in Aotearoa and around the world. One of

the world’s oldest national symphony orchestras, the NZSO is recognised internationally as one of the leading ensembles of its kind.

The anniversary coincides with another milestone for the orchestra – the first-ever appointment of a woman as its Principal Conductor. At only 35 years of age, New Zealand-born Gemma New has already made a name for herself on the international stage.

NZSO Chief Executive Peter Biggs says New’s appointment is a coup for both the NZSO and Aotearoa New Zealand. He says the NZSO is delighted that despite her numerous international commitments, New has committed to taking on the role back home in New Zealand.

The NZSO is a national taonga. Since its first performance in 1947, it has ignited a love of music in generations of New Zealanders. It has collaborated with some of the biggest names in classical music, with Igor Stravinsky, Jaqueline du Pré, Yehudi Menuhin, Nicola Benedetti and New Zealand’s own Dame Kiri Te Kanawa among them. Beyond its classical heritage the NZSO has worked with a diverse range of contemporary artists, from BENEE to The Muppets. It topped the album charts with Split Enz collaboration ENZSO and features on film and gaming soundtracks including The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring and Titanfall 2

Biggs says the 75th anniversary year is a celebration of what the orchestra means to New Zealanders today and in the future, as well as past triumphs.

“More than ever, all of us appreciate that it’s essential for our wellbeing to experience live performances. Despite the pandemic, the NZSO has pulled out all stops to present a diverse selection of music in 2022 with some of the most talented artists from around the world and Aotearoa New Zealand.”

The NZSO will also continue to stream concerts online so audiences can access its many thrilling performances from anywhere in the world.

“Gemma will mesmerise audiences in concert with the orchestra and make a significant contribution to what we play and do over the next three years.” He says the NZSO is honoured that she’s joined the orchestra in its 75th anniversary year.

New says she’s thrilled to be joining the NZSO team for the next three years. She says she is deeply impressed and inspired by the excellence, passion, dedication and inventiveness of the whole team and is looking forward to celebrating new heights together.

In 2020 and 2021 New conducted seven programmes with the NZSO, including Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring, Shostakovich’s Leningrad Symphony and Handel’s Messiah. She also conducted works by New Zealand composers Gareth Farr, Maria Grenfell, Ihlara McIndoe, Anthony Ritchie and Robin Toan. In 2022 New is scheduled to conduct in Wellington and Auckland three back-to-back concerts with multi-GrammyAward-winning American violinist Hilary Hahn as part of the NZSO’s winter festival in August, followed in November by Mozart’s Requiem in a programme also featuring Seikilos by New Zealand’s John Psathas.

75 Years was issued on 2 March 2022. Miniature sheets will remain on sale until 1 March 2023.

Musicians at the first rehearsal of the National Orchestra, 1946.

NZSO

Eid Mubarak

What is the significance of Arabic calligraphy in Islam?

Arabic calligraphy is a fundamental element of Islamic art and floral motifs, and geometric patterns, which are arabesque in nature, are used to decorate the calligraphy. The arabesque patterns represent the transcendent, indivisible and infinite nature of Allah (God).

Arabic calligraphy is sacred to Muslims as the Holy Book of the Muslims, The Qur’an, was revealed in Arabic language 1,400 years ago by Prophet Muhammad. Over the centuries the art of calligraphy has been refined and developed into a phenomenon of hard work and practice by Muslim artists around the globe. In Muslim architecture, Arabic calligraphy is also used to decorate the interiors and exteriors of mosques and other buildings.

Can you explain the different styles of Arabic calligraphy?

There are two main calligraphy styles - traditional and modern Arabic calligraphy. The traditional Arabic calligraphy style has six principal cursive scripts, which are Thuluth, Nasta’liq, Dewani, Nasekh, Reqa, and Kufi. Some of the modern Arabic calligraphy styles are Al-Wissam, Sunbali, Square Kufic, and Freestyle. There are many other scripts evolved from these calligraphy styles.

We have used a combination of both modern and traditional calligraphy styles for these stamps. The scripts include Thuluth, Dewani, Al-Wissam and Freestyle. Thuluth script is the master of all scripts and the most beautiful due to its charm and elegance. Dewani is a cursive style of Arabic calligraphy that is difficult to read and write due to its heavy stylisation, whereas, Al-Wissam and Freestyle calligraphy is modern and beautiful due to its curves, flows and elegance.

Is there any significance in the colours and patterns used in the stamps?

We’ve used a custom geometric pattern in the background of the stamps, which is one of the main elements of Islamic art. The dome shape is an illustration of Al-Noor mosque’s (Christchurch) dome.

We used fresh and vibrant colours in these stamps, like gold, green, blue, purple and turquoise to reflect the nature of the Eid event, which is all about happiness, caring, and sharing love. These colours coordinate well with each other and create the visual harmony that is an inherent feature of Islamic art.

In Islamic art, different colors have different meanings. For example, when gold is the color of the sky it represents prosperity and success. We’ve illustrated Arabic calligraphy in gold to give it elegance and class.

Artists Muhammad and Sameera Waqas share a love for the unique beauty of Arabic calligraphy. Meaning ‘Eid Blessings’, Eid Mubarak is the first stamp issue from NZ Post to recognise New Zealand’s Muslim communities and the fasting month of Ramadan. We spoke to the creative couple about their work and community.

The inclusion of Islamic art in New Zealand stamps is a milestone achievement for the Muslim community in New Zealand. Muslims in Aotearoa will be overjoyed by this beautiful gesture of cultural inclusivity and solidarity from NZ Post. It will give a feeling of belonging. It will also create awareness of this unique and beautiful Islamic art.

How do you and your community celebrate Eid al-Fitr?

Eid al-Fitr is a celebration after Ramadan when Muslims around the globe fast for the whole month of Ramadan. We decorate our homes and dress up in the best of clothes, and every household does special charity work for the poor and needy so no one is left out. We start the Eid day with Eid prayer in congregation followed by meet-and-greet gatherings where we enjoy traditional foods and the company of family and friends. Almost all Muslim households have open doors and welcoming arms for Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Kids are given special treats like money and gifts.

What led you to become artists and how has your practice evolved?

Islamic art has a golden and inspiring history of 1,300+ years, and we wanted to showcase the beauty of Islamic art to New Zealanders. We have always been inclined towards visual arts. I (Muhammad Waqas) am a multidisciplinary visual artist and

have always had a passion for Arabic calligraphy and Islamic art. My wife is an abstract artist and works mainly with acrylics on canvas. It was early 2020 when we started collaborating and there has been no looking back. Since then we have had several art exhibitions and displays with the encouragement and support of our community, friends, family and whānau. We are getting good responses from New Zealanders who appreciate our art. Alhamdulillah! (Praise be to God!).

We hope that our paintings illuminate the hearts with love of acceptance and bring a unique experience of this ancient art form to the people of Aotearoa New Zealand.

What’s next for you?

We plan to do more Islamic art exhibitions all over New Zealand and set up a proper studio and eventually switch to being fulltime practicing artists. We would also like to offer regular Arabic calligraphy classes. I am now studying traditional calligraphy scripts Al-Thuluth and Naskh and am determined to get my IJJAZZA (traditional calligraphy certification) and share this beautiful art practice with others.

Some of our artworks are a fusion of Islamic and Māori art. We believe it is not necessary to understand the Arabic language or any language to understand a piece of art, and this can be seen in our Arabic calligraphy artworks.

We are open to any sort of collaboration and are keen to work on community projects. You can visit mwcalligraphyart.com to find out more.

Eid Mubarak was issued on 6 April 2022. Stamps will remain on sale until 5 April 2023 and first day covers will be available until 1 June 2022.

What will this stamp issue mean to New Zealand’s Muslim communities?

Recent stamp issues

Christmas 2021

The Christmas stamps for 2021 focused on the essence of each Nativity character. With a contemporary design, colour-blocked gradients nod to stained-glass windows. Alongside simple forms, shapes and profiles in both the characters and the landscapes they occupy, the feeling of each character and the warmth and connection of Christmas are brought to life.

Date of issue: 3 November 2021

Designer: Cam Price, NZ Post, Wellington, New Zealand

Printer: Southern Colour Print, Dunedin Withdrawal date: 2 November 2023

2022 Year of the Tiger

The design of the 2022 Year of the Tiger stamps is inspired by Chinese nianhau posters. The style of the posters can be dated back to the woodblock printing method made popular during the Ming Dynasty. Typical subjects included immortal gods, mythical stories and rotund babies. By establishing a connection to this tradition, the stamps aim to help connect Chinese New Zealanders with the cultural practices of mainland China.

Date of issue: 1 December 2021

Designer: YMC Design, Wellington, New Zealand

Printer: Southern Colour Print, Dunedin Withdrawal date: 30 November 2023

Historic Ships of the 19th Century

Much of New Zealand’s early history is interconnected with stories about encounters at sea. Trade and exchange, voyaging and migration, settlement and interactions between Māori and Pākehā centred on the ocean. All of the four stamps, featuring paintings created by Sean Garwood in 2021, depict important historic scenes.

Date of issue: 3 February 2022

Designer: Chris Jones, Graphetti, Wellington, New Zealand

Artist: Sean Garwood, Nelson, New Zealand

Printer: Southern Colour Print by offset lithography

Withdrawal date: 2 February 2023

NZSO 75 Years

The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra Te Tira Pūoro o Aotearoa (NZSO) is a national taonga. Since its first performance in 1947, the NZSO has ignited a love of music in generations of New Zealanders. To celebrate the NZSO’s 75th anniversary, NZ Post produced a commemorative miniature sheet. Each of the two stamps features an instrument designed to resemble the number 75, and the miniature sheet features a photograph of the National Orchestra’s first-ever rehearsal. Contemporary conductor Gemma New is shown in action on the first day cover.

Date of issue: 2 March 2022

Designer: Hannah Fortune, NZ Post, Wellington, New Zealand

Printer: NZ Post Collectables, Whanganui, New Zealand

Withdrawal date: 1 March 2023

Poppy Appeal 100 Years

The year 2022 marks 100 years of the Royal New Zealand Returned and Services’ Association (RSA’s) Poppy Appeal in New Zealand. Every year on the Friday before Anzac Day, volunteers collect charitable donations in exchange for remembrance poppies. This stamp issue celebrates the poppy in its various forms, and everything it has meant to New Zealanders for the past 100 years. Although the remembrance poppy’s appearance has evolved through the years, the help the RSA Poppy Appeal affords service veterans today is as important as it was for veterans of World War One and the families who lost their loved ones. The act of buying and wearing a poppy is a powerful way to show support for veterans and to remember those who have passed on.

Date of issue: 3 March 2022

Designer: Nicky Dyer, Wellington, New Zealand

Printer: Southern Colour Print by offset lithography Withdrawal date: 2 March 2023

Eid Mubarak

Represented by dozens of nationalities, languages, customs and traditions, the New Zealand Muslim community is spread through every statistical district in the country. The distinctly New Zealand twist on Eid al-Fitr (‘eed-al-Fit-er’) lies in the inclusion of these diverse communities into one broader culture, sharing the same prayer spaces for worship and fostering a collective sense of identity.

The Islamic calendar is predicated on the cycles of the Moon, so the exact date of Eid al-Fitr fluctuates throughout the Gregorian calendar. Muslims will greet each other on this date with the special salutation ‘Eid Mubarak’ (eed-mu-bar-ak), meaning ‘Eid blessings’. In New Zealand, most members of the Muslim community gather early in the morning for special congregational prayers, then return home to eat, with family and friends visiting throughout the day.

Date of issue: 6 April 2022

Designer: Chris Jones, Graphetti and Waqas and Sameera, MW Calligraphy Art, Wellington, New Zealand

Printer: Southern Colour Print by offset lithography

Withdrawal date: 5 April 2023

Making a day of it

Set out until 2052, the Gregorian calendar dates will move every year to align with the Māori lunar calendar system, similar to the shifting dates of Easter. The first Matariki public holiday is earmarked for 24 June 2022. The Government has committed to ensuring that mātauranga Māori will be at the heart of celebrations of the Matariki public holiday, and it will be a time for remembrance, gratitude and looking ahead to the new year.

been a subject of debate. However, today the the treaty claims are being settled by Māori and the Crown and the document is beginning to take on a more mediatory role rather than remaining a point of grievance.

Waitangi Day was first observed in 1934 when Governor-General Lord Bledisloe gifted the Treaty House and grounds at Waitangi to the nation, but it wasn’t until 1974 that it became a public holiday (briefly known as New Zealand Day). Waitangi Day commemorations traditionally take place at the treaty grounds at Waitangi in the Bay of Islands. Attended by the prime minister and other politicians, the governor-general and diplomats, events include a dawn service, pōwhiri (welcome ritual), launching of waka (canoes), sports, performances and a naval salute. From the 1970s to early 2000s official functions were sometimes disrupted by protests by Māori who took the opportunity to raise the issues of inequality that stemmed from colonisation and the different interpretations of the treaty.

The Matariki 2022 stamps issue on 4 May 2022. Stamps will remain on sale until 3 May 2023 and first day covers will be available until 29 June 2022.

The first public holiday in New Zealand was St Andrew’s Day in 1857, but it wasn’t until the Bank Holidays Act 1873 that the tradition of nationwide public holidays began. Today’s national public holidays are a combination of international and local celebrations, with a mix of commemorative, cultural and religious themes. With the addition of Matariki Day, New Zealand will have 11 statutory national public holidays, with a paid day off work taken on the date or on the following Monday.

Waitangi Day

Waitangi Day is a day to remind all New Zealanders - Māori, Pākeha and Kiwis of all backgrounds - of the heritage they share as citizens of Aotearoa. The Treaty of Waitangi is a document written in Māori and English that intended to found a nation state and build a government in New Zealand. It was signed at Waitangi in the Bay of Islands on 6 February 1840 by Captain William Hobson, several English residents and around 45 Māori rangatira (chiefs). Approximately 540 rangatira from around 39 areas of the country eventually signed. The Treaty consists of nine documents in all - seven on paper and two on parchment. Different understandings of the Treaty have long

In 2022 legislation is expected to pass bringing in Matariki, the Māori New Year, as a national public holiday. Te Pire mō te Hararei Tūmatanui o Te Kāhui o Matariki/Te Kāhui o Matariki Public Holiday Bill is only the fifth dual-language Bill to be introduced to our Parliament, and when enacted will create the first public holiday to recognise te ao Māori (the Māori worldview).

A miniature sheet commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Treaty of Waitangi, issued by NZ Post in 1990.

Although Christmas traditions had been imported by settlers, for many people in the mid-19th century 25 December was just another working day. The Industrial Conciliation and Arbitration Act 1894 guaranteed a handful of holidays, including Christmas Day and Boxing Day. This was confirmed by the Public Holidays Act 1910.

Homesick settlers ensured that midnight mass and other Christian church services were well attended. Christmas trees, which had been introduced to England by Queen Victoria’s German husband Prince Albert, were gradually adopted in New Zealand. Many of the well-known carols composed in the 1800s made their way to our shores. Children were the main recipients of

faiths as autumn holidays. In New Zealand, the Christian Easter holiday takes place on Good Friday and Easter Sunday. The next day, Monday, is given as a day off as one of the holy days falls on the weekend. Kiwis indulge in the more modern practices of surprising children with chocolate eggs and other treats from the ‘Easter bunny’. Although traditionally baked and eaten on Good Friday, hot cross buns are on supermarket shelves as early as January, along with chocolate eggs. In the mid-1800s most English Methodist or Anglican and Irish Catholic settlers observed Christmas, Good Friday and Easter Sunday, but Scottish Presbyterian settlers did not. Instead, the Scots celebrated New Year’s Eve (Hogmanay) and New Year’s Day.

Anzac Day

First observed during World War One (in 1916) and observed as an official day of remembrance in 1921, Anzac Day commemorates the landing of New Zealand and Australian troops at ‘Anzac Cove’ on Turkey’s Gallipoli peninsula on 25 April 1915. The intention of the Gallipoli campaign was to open the Dardanelles strait to the Allied fleet, giving it access to the Ottoman capital of Constantinople to possibly force a Turkish surrender. The ultimately unsuccessful campaign came to an end after nine tragic months.

presents, especially once the American concept of Santa Claus (better known to young New Zealanders as Father Christmas) caught on in the late 1860s. The pōhutukawa tree, which blooms in December, became known as New Zealand’s Christmas tree, and settlers began to enjoy eating and celebrating outdoors.

Today, many Kiwis enjoy barbecues or lighter seasonal meals rather than traditional Northern Hemisphere roasts. Gifts are exchanged and parents make sure their children wake up to gifts from Santa. A number of New Zealanders in the transport, health and hospitality sectors and essential services work on Christmas Day, but they are entitled to time-and-a-half pay and an alternative day off.

New Year’s Day and the day after

The Scottish practice of first footing - a custom of trying to be the first to visit your neighbours in the new year - was common until late 20th century. Festivities would continue on New Year’s Day. The traditions of bonfires, fireworks, drinking and singing Auld lang syne spread around the country. New Year’s Day picnics and sporting fixtures became traditions and are still practised today.

In 1921 the Christmas and New Year holidays were ‘Mondayised’ - where a holiday that falls on the weekend is moved to the following Monday - contributing to today’s practice of a long summer holidays from school and work. Today, Kiwis are also treated to a paid day off on the day after New Year’s Day. New Year’s Eve concerts, festivals and fireworks are popular, and many people take the opportunity to set goals for self-improvement in January.

Good Friday and Easter Monday

Easter is celebrated in March or April, on the first Sunday following the full moon that occurs on or just after the spring equinox. Lent (the period of self-denial leading up to Easter), Passion week (culminating in Good Friday) and Easter Sunday are important religious days for Anglicans and Catholics, and have been adopted by New Zealanders of other denominations or

More than 8,700 Australians and more than 2,700 New Zealanders lost their lives in the Gallipoli campaign. It was through this hardship that the Anzac spirit was born, a comradeship felt and remembered to this day with the annual observance of Anzac Day. It is widely believed that for the Gallipoli experience fostered a sense of nationhood in New Zealand. Many New Zealanders rise early on 25 April to attend dawn services, where dedications to remembering those who died in service, and the last post is played. Later in the morning a televised national service is held. Most commercial activities are prohibited until 1pm.

Queen’s Birthday Weekend

The sovereign’s birthday was first officially marked for King George II in 1748. The Queen’s Official Birthday is celebrated on various dates throughout the Commonwealth and in the United Kingdom, generally set around the end of May or start of June. In New Zealand, Queen’s Birthday is a public holiday observed on the first Monday in June. Celebrations are mainly official, including the Queen’s Birthday Honours list and military ceremonies. Until the introduction of the Matariki public holiday, it was the last day off before winter and the long wait for Labour Day.

Labour Day

Labour Day was first celebrated by trade unionists on 28 October 1890; they were bringing attention to a campaign to extend the eight-hour working day to all industries. The Labour Day Act 1899 established a public holiday on the second Wednesday of October. From 1910 Labour Day was held on the fourth Monday in October. Today, Labour Day is looked forward to as the first holiday after winter. For many, Labour weekend is the unofficial start of spring, and for gardeners the cue to plant tomatoes.

NZ Post Christmas stamps from 1960 and 2019

1936 Anzac stamp

Christmas Day and Boxing Day

Timeless appeal

As early as 2,500 BCE Egyptians were creating elaborate floral displays for burials and processions. One of the oldest known uses of burial flowers was discovered in an Iraqi burial site that dated to 62,000 BCE. Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth II wore a wedding dress embellished with embroidered flowers from each of the Commonwealth countries. In each of these examples, flowers were used to highlight the importance of a particular situation. Flowers are also often chosen for their associated meanings or, in the case of the Queen’s wedding dress, to illustrate allegiance.

The symbolic meanings behind flowers are equally important when it comes to remembrance, conveying sentiment or celebratory events. Learning the language of flowers became a popular pastime during the 1800s for Victorians, who would often choose to give flowers as a way of conveying messages they couldn’t say in person. For example, a white carnation said ‘you’re adorable’ and a red carnation conveyed a flaming heart or passionate love. A white lily represented virginity, purity and heavenliness, an orange lily was a statement of hatred and an orange marigold stood for grief or jealousy.

For the Victorians, the poppy stood for consolation or comfort in times of grief. It therefore makes perfect sense that the poppy became a modern-day international symbol of remembrance in World War One. Here in Aotearoa New Zealand the poppy is strongly associated with the Royal New Zealand Returned and Services’ Association’s annual charity appeal, which was established 100 years ago. The act of buying and wearing a poppy has become a powerful way to show support for veterans and to remember those who have passed.

Fields the poppies blow / Between the crosses row on row...’).

In 1921 the New Zealand Returned Soldiers’ Association (RSA) placed an order for thousands of silk poppies from the French Children’s League. There was some debate within RSA circles on whether the poppies should be sold directly before Armistice Day in November 1921 or on Anzac Day in April 1922. The popular narrative is that, in the end, the poppies arrived too late to be sold for Remembrance Day, so they were sold in in advance of Anzac Day instead. It was a huge success, with some of the profits being sent to the French Children’s League to help relieve suffering in the war-ravaged areas of northern France. The RSA used the remainder to assist needy, unemployed returned soldiers and their families. The tradition continues today, with the funds providing welfare services to war veterans and the returned services community.

The RSA began producing its own poppies in 1931, with disabled former servicemen in Auckland and Christchurch making them. The shape was similar to the poppy in the $2.80 stamp (above) although was made of cloth rather than paper. This example is thought to have been made between 1960 and 1977. The current ‘opened’ or ‘flat’ paper design was adopted for Poppy Day in 1978.

The poppy on the $4.10 stamp was used in 2015 when an emergency shipment of Australian poppies was sent to New Zealand because, owing to production problems at the Christchurch factory, a machine expected to produce up to 1.25 million poppies had only made about 800,000 in time for Anzac Day. In an act of ANZAC solidarity, Australia agreed to provide the remaining required poppies at cost price.

Madame Anna Guérin of France, c. 1920. Image courtesy of The Evening Sun, Baltimore, USA.

Madame Anna Guérin of France is credited with the idea of the remembrance poppy. Through selling fabricated poppies, Guérin raised funds for a charity to rebuild livelihoods in France after World War One. However, the poppy’s direct association with the war began earlier when it was noted that red poppies were one of the first flowers to grow in the mud and soil of the battlefields in Flanders. This was famously observed by Canadian LieutenantColonel John McCrae in his poem In Flanders Fields (‘In Flanders

During the COVID-19 lockdown in April 2020, people couldn’t attend dawn services on Anzac Day. The Poppy Appeal was moved online, and people made their own poppies. The image of the crocheted poppy on the $4.90 stamp is a good example of a home-made poppy, but a rich variety was made and displayed throughout the country. The example on the stamp is from the National Army Museum in Waiōuru, where a large collection of similar poppies is on display.

The Poppy Appeal 100 Years stamps were issued on 2 March 2022. The stamps wil remain on sale until 1 March 2023.

For many centuries flowers have been used to celebrate, commemorate and mourn our most significant events.

Upcoming stamp issues

Matariki 2022 - Issue date: 4 May 2022

Matariki, the Māori New Year, is celebrated annually throughout Aotearoa New Zealand when, in mid-winter, the Matariki star cluster rises. This signals the time of year for us all to remember those loved ones who have gone before us. It leads the way to te waka o Tamarereti, where those who have died in the past year have gathered to begin their voyage to the gathering of those who lived before them, known as te kāhui o ngā kahurangi.

As souls depart for their next lives, Matariki greets the rising sun - bringing, in all its glory, the promise of a new year and signalling a time to plan for the future and grasp new opportunities.

Designer: KE Design, Tolaga Bay, New Zealand

Printer: Southern Colour Print, Dunedin

The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers 20th Anniversary - Issue date: 1 June 2022

After 12 long months of eagerly awaiting part two of the trilogy, the world was rewarded with the release of The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers in late December 2002. The enthusiastic audiences for the sequel ensured it was not only the highest grossing film of that year but, at the time of its release, the third-highest grossing film of all time.

To continue the celebration of 20 years since the spectacular film adaptations of the beloved The Lord of the Rings trilogy captured the attention of a new generation, a set of six miniature sheets depicting scenes from The Two Towers has been designed by Wellington artist Sacha Lees.

Designer: Sacha Lees, Wellington, New Zealand

Printer: Southern Colour Print, Dunedin

COMING SOON

Maritime stories in stamps

Issued in 1898, the eight-penny Pictorial is believed to be the first New Zealand stamp to depict both Māori life and a maritime subject. Melbourne’s E Howard was the artist - though with lines more akin to a pākehā (European) canoe, his waka (boat) suggests a degree of artistic licence. Ethnologists describe the great waka taua (war waka) as being “as big as Viking ships”, propelled by up to 100 paddlers. Howard’s little waka carries seven figures, five of them paddlers. The figure in the bow is probably the kaitiaki (guardian). The vessel carries a sail amidships, while the taurapa (stern) is unconventional in style. It would be interesting to know the source of Howard’s design.

Many waka were destroyed in colonial conflicts to inhibit Māori mobility. The only remaining large, intact waka taua is Te Toki a Tapiri at Auckland Museum. Built in 1836 in Hawke’s Bay, it found its way to the Manukau Harbour where it was confiscated by colonial militia in 1863. It’s carved from a single tōtara and could carry around 100 kaihoe (paddlers).

BARQUES AND BRIGANTINES

Two of the earliest ships built in the north were the Herald and the New Zealander - both appeared on stamps issued in 1975. The Herald was built at Paihia in 1826 by Henry Williams and Gilbert Mair. Weighing 50 tons, she was the first vessel built for the Church Missionary Society led by Henry Williams. She provided better links to Sydney for the mission and reduced dependence on local supplies. Like many others, she struck rocks while entering Hokianga Harbour and stranded on the shore.

A similar fate befell the New Zealander, a 200-ton brigantine laid down at Hōreke on the Hokianga Harbour in 1828. Hōreke, formerly known as Deptford, is often referred to as New Zealand’s first shipyard. The ship’s name derived from her figurehead – that of a Maori, commonly referred to as New Zealanders in those days.

The New Zealander’s first voyage from Hokianga to Sydney took six days, earning her the accolade of being the fastest ship sailing out of Port Jackson. The Horeke shipyard belonged to Raine, Ramsay and Browne, prominent Sydney merchants, but by the end of 1830 they were broke and the yard was sold to an East India Company man, Thomas McDonnell. The New Zealander met her fate in 1836 on Mahia Peninsula, when the anchor chain snapped in stormy weather and she was wrecked on the rocks.

BOATBUILDERS

Auckland was home to numerous boatbuilders from the first days of European settlement. Three of the most prominent families were the Niccols, Logans and Baileys whose creations have all featured on New Zealand stamps. A 1975 stamp features the Jessie Kelly, a 110-foot (33-metre) topsail schooner built by Henry Niccol at Devonport in 1866. Niccol arrived in Auckland in 1842 and was based at Mechanics Bay until transferring to Devonport around 1865. He built Jessie Kelly for Captain Kelly of Sydney, and her speed was legendary. In an 1873 test against the Sydney-built Noumea, she arrived in New Caledonia well ahead of the Australian contender.

In 1847 Anglican Bishop Selwyn purchased a Niccol vessel (the schooner Undine) to explore the Melanesian reaches of his vast episcopal see. Years later the Church of England Melanesian Mission chose Niccol to build its new barquentine the Southern Cross III, for the same work. Auckland boatbuilder John Waymouth’s design was chosen from 14 submissions.

The Southern Cross was launched with great ecclesiastical ceremony in March 1874. Lady Martin, a key mission supporter, chalked a cross on the stem and declared “I name thee Southern Cross and may thy mission be to carry the message of the Cross amongst the islands of the sea.” But with the arrival of Southern Cross IV from England in 1891 her name was changed to the Ysabel. In 1925 the Ysabel was purchased by a Tahitian, Nicholas Tuhiva. She sailed under the French flag until destroyed by fire in 1925.

Modern boaties may struggle to remember when they last licked a stamp but, as philatelists will attest, New Zealand’s postal legacy is intertwined with boats and the sea. Centuries of nautical history are richly reflected in the humble stamp.

In 1873 Septimus Meiklejohn began work on a revolutionary type of ship at Ōmaha that became a trusty workhorse around the coast. Based on North American principles, the Lake Erie was New Zealand’s first scow, a flat-bottomed, square-ended vessel with a schooner rig.

A migrant from Nova Scotia, Meiklejohn was associated with the Waipu settlement, arriving as a youngster in 1858. His family began building ships in 1859 and the Lake Erie was the first Septimus constructed in his own name. With a retractable centreboard the scow could work in shallow waters and was run up on to a beach for easy cargo handling. The Lake Erie didn’t live long - in June 1879 she sprung a leak off Bream Tail and was wrecked after being run ashore to save the lives of those aboard.

Charles Bailey, the founder (around 1870) of the Bailey boatbuilding dynasty on Auckland’s North Shore was renowned for his prize-winning yachts. Bailey won the contract to build the Britannia - a paddle steamer designed by James Trevithick, grandson of celebrated inventor and steam engine pioneer Richard Trevithick. She was launched in 1885.

Her timber came from a giant kauri tree that had lain undiscovered on the forest floor for more than a century. She was a regular on excursion and charter runs but wasn’t popular with passengers - too noisy, and smuts from the funnel soiled passengers’ clothing. In 1921 she was sold and refitted with enclosed wheelhouses, an extended funnel and modified engines. She appears on a 1984 stamp. She continued charter work around Waitematā Harbour, running until the mid-30s when she was broken up at Coromandel.

The Countess of Ranfurly, a three-masted topsail schooner was built for the New Zealand Government by Lane and Brown of Totara North in Whangaroa Harbour. William Brown and Thomas Major Lane had founded their firm in 1870 on the Kaeo River, before moving to Totara North two years later. Workers at the mill and shipyard were a pious bunch and often sang hymns as they worked - the yard was colloquially known as ‘The New Jerusalem’.

Christened in June 1901 by the Governor (the Earl of Ranfurly), the Countess serviced New Zealand’s island territories until around 1907 when she was sold to a Sydney firm. She was wrecked in 1910 on a reef off New Caledonia’s Isle of Pines.

Charles Bailey junior designed and built the 173-ton Tiare Taporo in 1913 for the Pacific Islands trading company AB Donald. She was the last schooner built for the islands trade and was named after the lime flower in recognition of the company’s lime-juice trade. She sailed regularly to French Polynesia and was considered lucky to have not fallen victim to German raiders during World War One. She was lost in the mid-60s after dragging her mooring at Aneityum, New Hebrides.

TINSELTOWN

British director David Lean’s proposed remake of Mutiny of the Bounty was the fifth for the sea saga. The first was Raymond Longford’s Australia/New Zealand silent movie, partly filmed in Rotorua.

Lean’s Bounty was to be based on Richard Hough’s 1972 book Mr Bligh and Mr Christian. In September 1977 Hollywood businessmen visited Whangarei Engineering Company to seal the deal - building the Bounty replica for $1.5 million. Where predecessors had been wooden, the Whangārei vessel was steel-hulled, sheathed with timber.

Mac McGuire was asked by Lloyds to oversee the construction and in 1977 Dino de Laurentis agreed to finance the project. A year later The Bounty was completed (at a cost of $4 million) and the

production budget set at $25 million. However, following the sudden illness of his codirector, Lean abandoned the film and the whole enterprise seemed to be in jeopardy. But De Laurentis had sunk too much money into the scheme and recruited New Zealand director Roger Donaldson to pick up from Lean. Anthony Hopkins played Bligh with Mel Gibson in the role of Christian. The movie made it to the big screen in 1984.

After filming, the Bounty found its way to Sydney’s Darling Harbour, where she played a major role in Australia’s 1988 bicentennial celebrations. She was sold to a Hong Kong company in 2007, but having been decommissioned a few years ago her future may be uncertain.

TAKING ON THE WORLD

New Zealand’s bicentenary gift to Australia was a restored historic yacht, Akarana Then Prime Minister David Lange said it was a fine example of the maritime tradition shared by both countries.

Built in Auckland by Robert Logan in 1887, she’d crossed the Tasman to take part in the Australian centennial regattas in Sydney and Melbourne in 1888. She’d won both races and been a star attraction at the Great Exposition in Sydney that year.

Restoration was tackled by Auckland’s Salthouse Brothers, with the Devonport Naval Dockyard attending to masts, spars and rigging. Her missing figurehead was found during the six-month restoration.

Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke raised the mast and Robert Logan’s granddaughters witnessed her re-launch at Greenhithe. She was shipped to Sydney and launched there with due ceremony and a Māori blessing. She’s now based at the Australian National Maritime Museum.

DINGHIES

The P Class and the Z Class (Zeddie or Takapuna) are two of New Zealand’s most iconic yachts. Peter Blake and Russell Coutts both cut their teeth in these spirited craft. Wellington civil engineer Harry Highet designed the P Class, first seen at Onerahi on New Year’s Day 1920.

Also known as the Tauranga Class, it was developed further after Highet moved there around 1923, quickly gaining popularity with novice yachties. Just over two metres in length, it was originally built in plywood but later modifications introduced fibreglass, aluminium and carbon fibre.

The 12’6” Takapuna (designed by RB Brown at Northcote in the 1920s) features on the 1951 Health stamps. The national Zeddies competition is known as the Cornwell Cup in memory of 16-year-old Jack Cornwell, who lost his life in the Battle of Jutland in 1916.

New Zealand’s exploits in the America’s Cup have been celebrated on stamps issued since 1987. Among the yachts is Black Magic (NZL 32) - built by McMullen & Wing. She achieved victory in 1995 with Peter Blake as team leader and skipper Russell Coutts. Today Black Magic lives at Auckland’s Maritime Museum.

This article was first published in Boating New Zealand magazine, December 2020.

Historic Ships of the 19th Century was issued on 2 February 2022. Stamps will remain on sale until 1 February 2023.

Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee

Not only has Queen Elizabeth II caried out her role in an exemplary manner, she has done so for an extraordinary length of time. For more than 70 years, she has been a constant figure in the public life of New Zealand, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and the entire Commonwealth.

The vast majority of people cannot remember a time before Elizabeth II was our Queen. Her presence has been a continuous thread linking several generations. She is rapidly approaching the record of being the longest-serving monarch in the history of the world. At this point she has already enjoyed the fourth-longest reign ever. Prince Johann II of Liechtenstein and King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand have both reached their Platinum Jubilees, but she will surpass their records early in May. At that point, only Louis XIV of France, who reigned for 72 years, will still exceed her. We hope that, in May of 2024, she will surpass him and become the longest-serving monarch ever.

The Platinum Jubilee in 2022 is the ideal occasion to reflect on the seven decades of service Elizabeth II has provided to her peoples around the world. She has shone a spotlight on countless good causes and has recognised innumerable people who have worked to build a better world. She has praised all her countries in times of triumph and offered consolation to each in times of national tragedy. She has offered counsel to many governments and served as a non-partisan symbol of unity beyond the political fray. She is a voice for amity and for reconciliation, showing a deep respect for the past but also a committed concern for the future.

While such records are not as important as the commitment she has shown to her role or the admiration of her peoples around the world, her unmatched endurance would make the reign of this extraordinary woman all the more remarkable.

Queen Elizabeth II is renowned around the world for her dedication and devotion to the 15 nations she serves as sovereign. Her commitment to her role, her compassion for the people she meets and her professionalism in the work she does are all cornerstones of her character, writes Sean Palmer of Monarchy New Zealand.

Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee coins were issued in February 2022.

Recent coin issues

Tāne Mahuta - February 2022

Māori myths and legends imbue all facets of life in Aotearoa New Zealand. Stories about Tāne Mahuta, the atua (god) of the forests and all who reside within them, are well known throughout Aotearoa. These coins depict the story of Tāne and how he acquired the three baskets of knowledge.

In the story, Tāne was confronted by his jealous brother Whiro, the atua of darkness, and his underlings. Tāne had to best them to reach the 12th heaven, where he was escorted by attendants into the presence of Io-Matua, the Supreme God, and bestowed with the three baskets of knowledge.

These coins have been designed by David Hakaraia, the designer of the NZ Post Māui coin series. One coin depicts the god Tāne Mahuta, who is embodied in the living world as a towering, sacred kauri tree. The second coin depicts poutama (the stairway to attainment of knowledge), the messengers of Io (the supreme spiritual power) and the three baskets of knowledge:

Date of issue: February 2022

Designer: David Hakaraia, Wellington, New Zealand Mint: B. H. Mayer’s Kunstprägeanstalt GmbH

Worldwide mintage: 150

2022 New Zealand Proof Currency SetFebruary 2022

Alongside two ½oz silver proof coins depicting the story of Tāne Mahuta and the baskets of knowledge, this set features proof versions of New Zealand’s circulating currency coins. Each coin is specially dated 2022. Collectively the coins feature many well-known New Zealand symbols such as the Māori carved mask, known as a ‘kōruru’ on the 10-cent coin, and HMS Endeavour, the ship of Captain James Cook, on the 50-cent coin. The silver coins in this set have been designed by David Hakaraia, the designer of the NZ Post Māui coin series. They portray the story of Tāne Mahuta, the god of forests and birds, who brought the baskets of knowledge to Earth. One coin depicts Tāne Mahuta, who is embodied in the living world as a towering, sacred kauri tree. The second coin depicts poutama (the stairway to attainment of knowledge), the messengers of Io (the supreme spiritual power) and the three baskets of knowledge.

Date of issue: February 2022

Designer (proof coins): David Hakaraia, Wellington, New Zealand Mint (proof coins): B. H. Mayer’s Kunstprägeanstalt GmbH Worldwide mintage: 750 sets

2022 Limited Edition New Zealand

Five-Coin Proof Set - February 2022

This limited-edition set features New Zealand’s iconic currency coins in magnificent proof quality. Each coin is specially dated 2022, and there are only 250 available worldwide.

Date of issue: February 2022

Worldwide mintage: 250 sets

For full technical details see collectables.nzpost.co.nz

2022 Kiwi

Also known as kiwi pukupuku, the little spotted kiwi is the smallest of five kiwi species. Despite their size, little spotted kiwi are fiercely territorial and will defend their turf, feathers flying, with their short and powerful legs and sharp claws. Their other distinguishing features include light-brown and grey plumage that is finely mottled or banded horizontally, and long white beaks.

During the day these nocturnal birds rest in burrows or hollows. After nightfall they emerge to feed, ambling along and tapping the ground to find earthworms, larvae, spiders, beetles and occasional fallen leaves and fruit. Although the male parents stay with the nests until the chicks are mature enough to leave, chicks are never fed by their parents. Instead, they are nourished by the large yolk sacs from their eggs until they leave the burrows to feed at around one week old.

Date of issue: February 2022

Designer: David Hakaraia, Wellington, New Zealand

Mint: B. H. Mayer’s Kunstprägeanstalt GmbH

Worldwide mintages:

1oz silver specimen coin: 5,000

1oz silver proof coin: 2,500

¼oz gold proof coin: 500

1kg silver proof coin: 100

Discover New Zealand

This coin set features the three coins issued as part of the ‘Discover New Zealand’ series, a stream of commemorative 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: April 2022

Worldwide mintage: 1,000 of each coin, 207 sets available

For full technical details see collectables.nzpost.co.nz

Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee

The vast majority of people cannot remember a time before Elizabeth II was our Queen. Her presence has been a continuous thread linking several generations. Queen Elizabeth II is renowned around the world for her dedication and devotion to the 15 nations she serves as sovereign. Her commitment to her role, her compassion for the people she meets and her professionalism in the work she does are all cornerstones of her character. For more than 70 years she has been a constant figure in the public lives of New Zealand, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and the entire Commonwealth.

Date of issue: February 2022

Designer: Sacha Lees, Wellington, New Zealand Mint: Royal Dutch Mint

Worldwide mintages:

1oz silver proof coin: 1,000

5oz silver proof coin: 200 ¼oz gold proof coin: 500

1oz gold proof coin: 96

2oz gold proof coin: 96

SOLDOUT

2022 New Zealand Annual Coin: Archey’s Frog

New Zealand is home to many unique threatened species, including one of the world’s most endangered amphibians. A living fossil that has barely changed in 150 million years, Archey’s frog is New Zealand’s smallest native frog. One of four remaining native species of frog, it is the number one Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered species of any kind in the world. This special creature is being celebrated with the 2022 New Zealand Annual Coin.

NZ Post has dedicated the 2022 New Zealand Annual Coin to the memory of Emeritus Professor Phil Bishop, a giant in the field of amphibian conservation who cast his expert eye over our artist’s impression of Archey’s frog.

Date of issue: March 2022

Designer: Sacha Lees, Wellington, New Zealand Mint: B. H. Mayer’s Kunstprägeanstalt GmbH Worldwide mintage: 350

SOLDOUT

Staff profile: Nick Jarvie

Nick Jarvie joined the NZ Post design team in 2021. Nick’s seen the ins and outs of NZ Post both as a delivery agent and now as a visual communications specialist. As his next challenge, he’s currently designing his first-ever stamp issue.

What’s your history with NZ Post?

My actual work history with NZ Post is relatively short. I have been working for NZ Post for just under a year. I started out as a delivery agent working at the Porirua depot - a real change of pace from the work I had previously been doing as a freelance designer. While working there I heard about the rebrand that was in progress, so kept a bit of a lookout for any jobs that might match my skillset. As luck would have it, there was an opportunity to join the Content and Visual Design team and I was fortunate enough to get the job. So I’ve been working as a visual communications specialist for the past six months. This past year has been a real crash course in what makes NZ Post tick, from working and learning on the frontline to moving into the corporate side and taking that experience through to my work.

What’s your approach to design and why do you enjoy it?

I think my approach to design is focused a lot on clarity and functionality. Good design should communicate ideas clearly and effortlessly, but should start from a place of human insight and experience.

The aspect of design I enjoy the most is the problem solving. Being able to distil an idea, concept or message down to its most effective form is very rewarding. Helping to share people’s stories, especially when those stories help to communicate informative and helpful ideas that can ultimately lead to positive social change - that’s when my work really transforms into an enriching experience.

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

I think the obvious answer, when thinking about how designing stamps is different from other kinds of design work, is the size. There are very few other design jobs where you work at that

scale. To create something that has both an inherent functional purpose while also being framed as a miniature piece of art in and of itself is an interesting balance. There are also mandatory elements within the stamp that must remain consistent in order for it to achieve its intended purpose. To work within those constraints and find that functional and artistic balance is an interesting dynamic. Stamps also have such significant design histories in themselves, which is something to consider when designing and choosing whether to keep them more traditional or try for something that feels and looks different.

Stamps and coins are popular collectors’ items. Tell us about something you’ve collected. I have always flirted with the idea of collecting things but never quite reached the point where I would consider anything an actual collection. As a kid I did the usual thing of collecting various cards and toys, but nothing really stuck or carried through. At this stage I would say the closest things I have to a collection are some of the activities I started doing during the pandemic and lockdowns to help pass the time. I started building Lego again and have a collection of architecture sets of cities and places I’ve visited. As well as that, like a lot of people I think recently, I’ve slowly been amassing a small forest of house plants.

If you could design anything, what would it be and why? I think a large part of the reason I enjoy design is that aspect of problem solving. I have also been interested in trying to tackle different and varied jobs. Any job that pushes me to learn a new skill or think about an object, subject or situation in a different way is always going to be very appealing. As things increasingly push towards digital, I would be interested in expanding my skillset as a developer and work more within the UI/UX (user interface design/user experience design) space or even in some aspect of the games and entertainment industry.

Celebrating the conservation of a unique endemic amphibian.