6 September 2011

Kiwis can take home the Webb Ellis Cup - weeks ahead of the final

New Zealand's bid to reclaim the Rugby World Cup won't reach its zenith for another six weeks - but the public will be able to take the trophy home in eye-catching 3D as early as this Wednesday, 7 September.

For the first time ever New Zealand Post is set to release a 3D stamp - and the legendary Webb Ellis Cup has been chosen as its theme.

The large full-colour stamp, which has a $15 face value, has been produced in strictly limited quantities to coincide with New Zealand's historic hosting of the Rugby World Cup 2011.

The Webb Ellis Cup can be seen in photo-realistic detail against a changing backdrop of mangopare pattern that represents the hammerhead shark and the koru.

"You don't need to wear silly glasses or cross-your-eyes to see this stamp in 3D - it pretty much leaps off the background for anyone who sees it," says Simon Allison, New Zealand Post's Sales and Marketing Manager for the stamps business.

"We expect this limited edition stamp to sell quickly. This stamp will appeal to sports fans, international visitors and to anyone who loves exciting, innovative and visually appealing stamps.

"It's also a fully functioning postage stamp, so we expect a number of these stamps to end up on parcels sent overseas by fans attending the Rugby World Cup.

"The innovative and limited edition 3D stamp comes in a sealed plastic case for protection and is priced to be an affordable keepsake for young and old. . It will also be available on a collectable First Day Cover," Mr Allison said.

The Webb Ellis Cup – New Zealand’s first 3D stamp is available from 7 September 2011 through all New Zealand PostShop stores, at REAL Aotearoa stores in Auckland and Wellington, online at www.nzpost.co.nz/stamps, or by phoning 0800 STAMPS (782 677).

ENDS

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