Niue’s geographical isolation has allowed for many types of tropical flora to flourish. This illustrated stamp issue looks at four types of flora that can be found in Niue.
Issue information
Owing to a warm climate and high levels of rainfall, flowers and trees suited to a tropical climate grow well in Niue. The flora featured in this stamp issue tend to be utilised in Niuean culture, both for creating practical tools for everyday life and for decorative purposes. Each stamp includes a stylised illustration of the flora, the Niuean name and the scientific name.
30c - Fou (Hibiscus tiliaceus)
The fou is one of the most commonly found trees in Niue, with bright yellow hibiscus flowers that turn red with age. The fou has several useful elements that are utilised in Niue. The bark of the fou contains strong fibres, making it ideal for creating cordage and fashioning into ceremonial clothing. The wood of the fou is used in various aspects of creating canoes.
$1.40 - Pua (Fagraea berteroana)
This appealing tree is loved for its striking white flowers,which become yellow over time.The flower also has a sweet scent, making it popular as a hair accessory for women.The pua’s timber is highly valued for making tools and furnishings.
$2.00 - Toi (Alphitonia zizyphoides)
The toi is indigenous from South-east Asia to the Society Islands. Its wood is highly valued for use in furnishings because of its attractive grain. The bark and bark sap are used in traditional medicines for various diseases and ailments.
$4.00 - Sī (Cordyline fruticosa)
The sī are tall, leafy, evergreen plants found in Niue, with little yellow-red flowers that grow into bright red berries. The leaves of the sī were traditionally used to fashion skirts and kilts. They are still used for this purpose nowadays, but the items are worn for ceremonial and performance purposes rather than as everyday clothing.
Collectables to add to your Niue stamp collection
Included in this issue are a miniature sheet, a first day cover and a miniature sheet first day cover. The two first day covers include enlarged imagery of the illustrations on the $2.00 and $4.00 stamps, and make the perfect addition to any Niuean stamp collection.
Technical information
| Date of issue: | 3 June 2015 |
|---|---|
| Number of stamps: | Four gummed stamps |
| Denominations: | 30c, $1.40, $2.00 and $4.00 |
| Stamps and first day cover designed by: | New Zealand Post Ltd, Wellington, New Zealand |
| Printer: | Collectables and Solutions Centre, New Zealand Post, Whanganui, New Zealand |
| Number of Colours | Four Process Colours |
| Stamp size and format: | 30mm x 40mm (vertical) |
| Paper Type | Tullis Russell 104gsm red phosphor gummed stamp paper |
| Number of stamps per sheet: | 16 stamps |
| Perforation gauge: | 13.33 |
| Period of sale: |
Unless stocks are exhausted earlier, these stamps will remain on sale until 2 June 2016 |