2009 Year of the Ox – New Zealand

Name: 2009 Year of the Ox
Date of Issue: 7 January 2009
Denominations: 50c, $1.00, $2.00

The Ox is the second of the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac – an emblem of spring and agriculture and, it’s believed, able to repress the evil spirits that disturb the waters of lakes, rivers and oceans. The Ox symbol on this stamp is set against a cloud motif, a device commonly used in Chinese art to symbolize great good fortune and joyfulness.

People born in the Year of the Ox are natural leaders – dependable, calm, modest and hardworking. Just like the animal they represent, they are tireless in their work and capable of enduring any hardship without complaint.

No Chinese New Year is complete without the beautiful red lanterns that light up the night sky. Symbols of fertility, they also have a traditional role in ensuring the safe passage back to the ‘world beyond’ of the souls of ancestors who return to the homes of their descendants for the festivities.

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