The year 2020 marks 75 years since the end of World War Two. For nearly six years New Zealanders lived through immense hardship, suffering and change. Through this time they connected, worked together, rallied as citizens and solved problems both abroad on the battlefields and on home soil. During the war advancements in medicine, trade and manufacturing occurred worldwide – changes that we still benefit from today.
This issue consists of a 15-stamp sheet that highlights key events and elements of World War Two for New Zealand. With commentary by historian Steven Loveridge, a miniature sheet booklet delves into these stories.
The three first day covers for this issue feature additional imagery from the war:
Spitfires: Spitfire 1As of 610 Squadron based at Biggin Hill, July 1940. Bernard Brown from New Zealand flew with the 610 but there were others who transitioned in and out during the Battle of Britain.
Jumping Men: New Zealand soldiers participating in a beach landing exercise, during amphibious training in the Pacific (exact location unknown).
Land Girls: Private Arlen Olson (left) and Corporal Al Cartwright pose for a photograph with New Zealand ‘land girls’ Dorothy Penny and Lindsay Horwell (right), who they are helping harvest crops at Patumāhoe, near Pukekohe.
Date of Issue:1st April 2020
