VN:F [1.9.1_1087]

One of New Zealand Post’s most enduring stamps, the Round Kiwi stamp was first produced in olive green in 1988. Since then, New Zealand’s national bird has appeared in red (1991), blue (1993), purple (in 1997 initially, and re-issued for the new millennium in 1999), gold (2000) and bronze (2002).

In 2011 the Round Kiwi stamp returns in three denominations that reflect New Zealand’s current postage rates. The $1.20 stamp has been printed in black – widely regarded as New Zealand’s national colour and worn by several of our sports teams. The $1.90 stamp has been printed in silver – reflecting New Zealand’s iconic silver fern (Cyathea dealbata), and the $2.40 stamp is printed in classic blue – synonymous with the vast amount of water surrounding our small island nation.

As well as other subtle design changes, the 2011 Round Kiwi stamps feature the New Zealand Post identifier – the fern.

Technical Details:

Date of issue: 6 July 2011

Number of stamps: Three gummed stamps

Denominations: $1.20, $1.90, $2.40

Stamps and first day cover designed by: Stamps and Collectables Business, New Zealand Post, Wellington

Printer and process: Southern Colour Print Ltd by offset lithography

Number of colours: Four process colours

Stamp size and format: 33mm (diameter)

Paper type: Tullis Russell 104gsm red phosphor gummed stamp paper

Number of stamps per sheet: 10 stamps

Perforation gauge: 14.5

Special blocks: Plate/Imprint blocks may be obtained by purchasing at least four stamps from a sheet. Barcode blocks are available in A format.

Period of sale: Unless stocks are exhausted earlier, these stamps will remain on sale until 5 July 2012.

Source: New Zealand Post