The Haast’s eagle (Harpagornis moorei, pouākai) is the largest, most powerful species of its kind ever to have existed. It had an impressive 2-3 metre wingspan and weighed up to 17.8 kilograms, and its talons could be as long as a modern-day tiger’s. This formidable predator’s main source of prey was South Island moa, but it is also believed to have eaten kererū, ducks, swans, geese and rails. It is thought that the Haast’s eagle would perch in the forest waiting for suitable prey to appear before swooping down with incredible force.

The 2025 New Zealand Proof Currency Set features proof examples of New Zealand currency, with the effigy of King Charles III on the obverse as will appear on circulating coins as they are minted during his reign.

Pouākai | Haast's Eagle: Designed by Māori artist Dave Burke, the silver coin featured in this set depicts a close-up of the Haast’s eagle in the background, with the impressive bird swooping down to catch its prey in the foreground. With a mirrored proof finish, the coin depicts a rose gold-plated eagle in the background, with vibrant colour-printed detail in the foreground. The landscape illustration depicts Canterbury, where remains of Haast’s eagles have been found. The rim of the coin features both the Māori and English names. 

Proof Currency Coins: Alongside the silver coin, this set features proof versions of New Zealand’s circulating currency coins. Each coin is specially dated 2025 and is the second to feature the portrait of King Charles III. Collectively the coins feature many well-known New Zealand symbols such as the Māori carved mask, known as a ‘kōruru’ on the 10-cent coin, and the HMS Endeavour, the ship of Captain James Cook, on the 50-cent coin.

KEY FEATURES:

• Proof currency set featuring unique Pouākai | Haast’s Eagle coin
• Includes examples of New Zealand’s currency coins featuring the Commonwealth effigy designed for the Royal Mint by Dan Thorne
• 1oz silver proof Pouākai | Haast’s Eagle coin minted from 0.999 silver and finished with rose gold and selective colour
• Silver coin designed by Dave Burke, Tauranga, New Zealand
• Low worldwide limited mintage of 750 sets.