The people of the small Pacific nation of Niue celebrate Christmas just as those in many other countries do – by spending time with loved ones, sharing food and gifts, and reflecting on the traditional Christmas story.
Issue information
The Niue Christmas 2011 stamp issue combines photographic scenery of Niue with the Star of Bethlehem, which appeared in the night sky upon the birth of the baby Jesus. The combination of these two elements signifies the importance of the Nativity to the stunning and untouched Pacific island of Niue.
The individual stamps in this issue are as follows:
30c - Pacific Sunset
Niue enjoys sunshine all year round, and in this picturesque stamp the setting sun is shown disappearing below the horizon. The photograph is taken from the well known Matavai Resort, which sits at the south end of Tamakautonga village.
$1.40 - Matapa Chasm
Renowned for its crystal clear waters, Niue is the perfect spot to try your hand at snorkelling or diving. One of the most popular spots is Matapa Chasm, located in the northwest part of the island, near the village of Hikutavake.
$2.00 - Coconut Palms
Coconut palms are found throughout Niue and are extremely resourceful plants, providing locals with food, medicine, shade and building material. These tropical trees are shown blowing in the evening breeze on the $2.00 stamp.
$4.00 - Centennial Church
Religion is an important part of island life. The Centennial Church shown on the $4.00 stamp is located in Alofi, Niue’s capital. The church was built in 1946 to commemorate 100 years of the gospel arriving in Niue.
Technical information
| Date of issue: | 16 November 2011 |
|---|---|
| Number of stamps: | Set of four gummed stamps |
| Denominations: | 30c, $1.40, $2.00, $4.00 |
| Stamps, miniature sheet and first day covers designed by: | Stamps and Collectables Business, New Zealand Post, Wellington, New Zealand |
| Printer and process: | 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 |
| Special blocks: | Plate and value blocks may be obtained by purchasing at least six stamps from a sheet |
| Period of sale: | Unless stocks are exhausted earlier, these stamps will remain on sale until close of business 15 November 2012 |