Eruption features on special stamp

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 14, Issue 673, 11 February 1997, Page 14

Eruption features on special stamp

Ruapehu's eruptions are to feature on a new $10 postage stamp, to be released tomorrow. The new definiti ve stamp features a striking aerial photograph, by New Zealand photographer Craig Potton, of Mt Ruapehu in eruption during June 1996, and replaces the

$10 Little Brown Kiwi. The stamp with its distinctive border of volcanic rocks was designed by Red Cactus Design of Wellington and printed by Joh. Enschede of the Netherlands by lithography. Also to be released on 1 2 February 1997, is a set of stamps that explores six of New Zealand's own Discoverers. Leading up to the year 2000 New Zealand Post will be releasing a series of stamp issues focusing on the country's development and history over the centuries. The Discoverers is the first feature of this series. "With the change-over of

the century so close, we felt it an appropriate time to reflect on our heritage and history through these stamps, especially with New Zealand being one of the first places in the world to see the sun rise in the year 2000," said Russell Watson, general manager, New Zealand Post Stamps Business Unit. "The Millennium series of stamps will celebrate important milestones of our past, chronicling the changing face of New Zealand over the centuries." The six voyagers depicted on the Di sco verers stamps include: James Cook (40 cents), Kupe (80 cents), Maui ($1.00), Jean de Surville ($1.20), Dumont

d'Urville($ 1.50), and Abel Tasman ($1.80). A close look at each stamp will reveal depictions of different aspects linked with each of the famous individuals portrayed, such as the first-ever complete map of the New Zealand coastline, produced by James Cook; an artist's impression of the legendary Kupe, the Polynesian voyager who ultimately discovered New Zealand; the portrayal of Maui, a Maori mythical figure; and one of three anchors that was lost by Jean de Surville during his voyages in the Pacific. The Discoverers stamps and first day cover were designed by Red Cactus

Design of Wellington, and the stamps were printed by Southem Colour Print of Dunedin, New Zealand.