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Launch of Giant Poppy Build Launch in Auckland Domain
Launch of Giant Poppy Build Launch in Auckland Domain
THURSDAY APRIL 16 2015 ( TOMORROW) 10.30am
Artist Tony McNeight is creating a Giant Poppy Art project in the Auckland Domain (the world’s largest man made poppy)with the help of thousands of people and their messages - from April 16 until April 24. ( Further details below).
The launch will be attended by Hon Maggie Barry Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage, Willie Apiata VC, Auckland Mayor Len Brown and Joan Root who is a 100 years old and saw her first Zeppelin at five years old. There will also be a wide range of other guests and children.
The Powhiri will be led by young Ngati Whatua who will also perform the Maori Battalion Company A haka.
The Poppy is in the Auckland Domain on the sports field below the Museum.
Key Facts on Giant Poppy Art Project
A modern take on the poppy- by the people for the people - completely interactive.
Worlds largest poppy (size of a football field) - 59,000 discs that represent the NZ men and women who were wounded or killed in WW1
Gives all Aucklanders an opportunity to come down to the Domain during the 9 days the poppy is being built - give a donation to the RSA -and place a red metal poppy petal with a message to honour those who protected our freedom and democracy.
Also everyone outside of Auckland (expats, ANZAC supporters worldwide ) can become involved by going online to the website and a poppy will be placed for them.
All children of school age do not need to donate just come down and place a disc with their parents or with their class or school
Brainchild and personal initiative of artist Tony McNeight who was a man with a vision to create an art piece that would let everyone pay their personal respects. Had the idea on ANZAC Day 2014 and pretty much put aside the rest of his life to make it happen.
Huge project, need to convince everyone he could do it and it would happen. He has surprising support from all sorts of people and places.
Gaining momentum from all over the world
Next step find a home for the poppy with what will be thousands of heartfelt messages.
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