New Zealand Post’s annual Fish & Game release is produced on behalf of Fish & Game New Zealand as part of the ‘Game Bird Habitat Stamp Programme’ which was started in 1993 to collect funds for habitat protection.
With a value of $10, the release is actually a ‘cinderella’ rather than a stamp because it’s not valid for postage.
Each season, the stamp depicts a different game bird in its natural New Zealand habitat. Game Bird Habitat Stamps are affixed to all annual hunting licences to validate the licence, and $2 from the purchase of every licence goes directly to this programme.
In addition to the annual stamp, New Zealand Post issues a limited edition print of the artwork, a first day cover and a miniature sheet which has a complete representation of the artwork. From time to time, other related products may be produced. These are available to hunters and the general public and the money from purchases goes to the fund.
Products Available
New Zealand Game Bird Habitat Trust
The New Zealand Game Bird Habitat Trust, established under the 1953 Wildlife Act, exists primarily to improve New Zealand game bird habitat, and secondarily to improve the habitat of other wildlife. The key purpose of the Game Bird Habitat Trust Board is to distribute funding for the development and enhancement of wetland habitat for the benefit of game birds and other wetland inhabitants.
For information visit: http://www.fishandgame.org.nz
Note: Game Bird Habitat stamps are not valid for postage.