On March 5, 2025, New Zealand Post issued a series of postage stamps "Animals in Service".

The series consists of four stamps, each dedicated to one animal. The heroes of the commemorative postage stamps are dogs ($2.30), pigeons (3.60), horses ($4.30), donkeys and mules ($4.90). At first glance, we see large silhouettes of animals and poppy petals on a light background. But upon closer examination, additional details appear. Designer Sumin Ha placed a fragment of a historical photograph with animals in each silhouette. Thanks to this technique, the stamps turned out to be deep and multi-layered, they gradually immerse us in the past, telling about the military everyday life of people and their four-legged and winged assistants. Thus, service dogs served as messengers, orderlies, guards and simply loyal friends for soldiers. Pigeon post was used even during World War I, when other means of communication were unavailable. Donkeys and mules were actively used as draft animals to transport ammunition, food and water in difficult-to-reach areas.

Horses played an important role in military operations, especially in World War I. New Zealand cavalry units - the New Zealand Mounted Rifles took an active part in campaigns in the Middle East, especially in Egypt and Palestine. To staff the expeditionary force in 1914, the New Zealand government purchased 10,000 horses. Back in the 19th century, the hardy New South Wales horse was bred in Australia for the needs of the cavalry, the name of which was eventually shortened to the capacious Waler. In New Zealand, Walers were also bred - strong, hardy horses well adapted to hot climates and harsh conditions. They were the ones who went to the Middle East with the soldiers. Horses were used for rapid troop transport, supply and reconnaissance during the war. The cavalry units of the NZEF in the Middle East were recognised for their bravery, discipline and contribution to the victory over the Ottoman Empire. The memory of the Mounted Rifles remains an important part of New Zealand’s military heritage.

When creating the stamp, designer Sumin Ha used a fragment of a historic photograph from 1918. The image was taken by Henry Armytage Sanders on 20 May 1918 in Vaucelles, France. During the war, the 1st New Zealand Infantry Brigade held a horse show there. It was not only a demonstration of military skills and horsemanship by officers, but also a way to maintain morale among soldiers and strengthen ties between the allies. The original photograph is held in the National Library of New Zealand.

The series of postage stamps "Animals in Service" not only emphasizes the importance of animals in the military history of New Zealand, but also reminds us of their devotion and sacrifice for people. It is no coincidence that the stamps depict poppy petals. In New Zealand, red poppies are the main symbol of memory, respect and grief for those who died during the war. Thus, this series of stamps is a tribute to those who faithfully served alongside soldiers, helping them and making their own contribution to success on the battlefield.

Sources: collectables.nzpost.co.nz , natlib.govt.nz
Special thanks for help to AMark at www.stampboards.com