The NZ Post design a stamp competition is now open, to school students aged five to 12.

Works from three lucky winners will grace the 50c, $2 and $2.50 stamps, all of which can be used to post mail overseas at Christmas. The children’s designed stamps will complement the traditional Christmas range.

It’ll be the third year NZ Post will have run the competition. The three category winners will each receive $1000, while $3000 goes to their school.

NZ Post stamps general manager Ivor Masters says this year’s competition theme is a Kiwi Christmas.

“We’re asking children to really let their imagination run wild, but at the same time to think about what might look good on a stamp. Since stamps are small, children need to keep their designs simple and use bright, strong colours.”

• Entry forms and tips on what makes a good stamp image can be downloaded from www.nzpost.co.nz/designastamp. Entries close on May 9 and the stamps will be available for sale from October 3.

Entries can be sent to: FreePost Design A Stamp, PO Box 38707, Wellington Mail Centre, Lower Hutt 5045.