24 June 2009 signals the start of 'Matariki' - the dawn of a new Maori year. Traditionally a time for renewal, reflection and celebration, Matariki is also a time to honour Maori culture as a key influence on, and an integral part of, New Zealand's sense of nationhood.

This year New Zealand Post honours heitiki as an icon of Maori art - past and present. Expressed as images in six self-adhesive stamps, the collection also includes two first day covers, a gummed miniature sheet, a presentation pack and - in a rare collector's opportunity - a prestigious and meticulously designed and documented Limited Edition.