The dollar in this 1970 set shows Mount Cook with its Māori name «AORANGI», the Cloud Piercer: it was issued for the visit of Elizabeth II, who was in New Zealand from 12 to 30 March 1970 for the celebrations of the bicentenary of Cook’s voyage.

The design is by James Berry, the author of most New Zealand reverses in the early decimal years. «MOUNT COOK» runs above the peak and «AORANGI» sits at its foot. For the Queen it was also a family occasion: she introduced Prince Charles and Princess Anne to the country.

The set holds seven denominations from 1 cent to 1 dollar. The 1970 ten cents has its own distinction: it is the first year the «ONE SHILLING» legend, a reminder of the old system, was removed. The remaining designs, a fern, kōwhai flowers, a tuatara, a kiwi and the bark Endeavour off Mount Taranaki, continue the 1967 series.

The VF-AU grade runs from visible wear on the high points with clear legends to almost untouched relief. The set sits well beside the 1969 group: two neighbouring years with two different commemorative dollars.

Collectors who focus on a single country will find its other issues in the VPcoins catalogue as well.