Significant Queens Wharf artwork moving ahead
The major public artwork planned for Queens Wharf is moving ahead with designs going out for tender in the next few
months.
Aucklanders should be able to see it unveiled at the end of wharf in mid-2016, subject to final production agreements.
The concept for the artwork is a 'lighthouse' signifying a safe harbour and welcome, and including the Māori value ahi
kā – the home fires are burning.
The lighthouse will take the form of a typical New Zealand house filled with a glowing glass chandelier depicting a
brilliantly-coloured glass garden of native flowers, birds and insects.
Stairs will lead to a viewing platform to allow people multiple views of the interior, and a skylight will allow cruise
ship visitors berthing at Queens Wharf to see inside.
Mayor Len Brown told Auckland Council’s Regional Strategy and Policy Committee today: “We have an opportunity to breathe
light into how we display our region’s cultural and artistic beauty, in a significant location and for all Aucklanders
and visitors to our city to see.
“These works tell our stories, reflect the cultures that call our city home and invite people to enjoy our region. We
must continue to shape our city and town centres with quality art.”
Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse acknowledged the significance of this project in receiving one of the largest monetary gifts
for a single public artwork in New Zealand’s history.
“Barfoot and Thompson has chosen to share its 90th birthday celebration with the people of Auckland with a $1 million
contribution to a public artwork. This is an extremely generous act and one we accept with gratitude and commitment to
creating something people will be proud of.”
The project budget is $1.5 million. The council and Waterfront Auckland are exploring options for further contributions
from other parties. The balance of costs will be met from council’s public art capex budget.
A second private donor has signalled an additional bequest of $100,000 and officers are working with other patrons and
funding agencies to explore additional funding sources.
Council is also investigating working with the tertiary education sector to explore opportunities for skills development
with students on the project.
The chandelier will be powered by the solar panels on Shed 10 – the largest commercial solar array in the country.
ENDS