Magnificent isn’t it? That’s Waharoa. Or as some call it Te Waharoa o Aotea. It’s a breathtaking sculpture. A true masterpiece right here in Aotea Square.
This isn’t just any artwork. Waharoa is a seven-meter-high archway. It’s a powerful symbol. A gateway to Maori culture. Selwyn Muru the artist created it in 1990. He wanted to welcome visitors. To make Aotea Square feel like a marae. A traditional Maori meeting place.
Muru used macrocarpa wood. He chose it for its mauri. Its life force. It contrasts beautifully with the city’s steel and glass. He even used copper from the old Waitangi wharf piles. This links to his birthplace in Northland and honors Tangaroa the God of the Sea.
Look closely. You’ll see carvings of Maori deities. Tamanuiterā the sun god is there. So is Tangaroa as a whale. Tāne Mahuta the forest god is represented as a bird. And Tawhirimatea the god of weather is also present. There are also stars and the moon. See them?
But it’s not just traditional symbols. Muru also included contemporary ones. A nuclear disarmament symbol is there. A cross a heart and an arrow. Even a guitar and a dog inspired by a fellow artist’s pet. He even added a haiku by Hone Tuwhare. A tribute to the Waihorotiu Stream that once flowed here. Muru’s genius truly shines in this blend of past and present.
Waharoa has had its challenges. It was moved and even leaned once. It needed repairs costing $40,000. But it always returns stronger. A symbol of resilience.
This magnificent artwork. It is a must-see. It reflects Auckland’s spirit. Its history. Its commitment to Maori culture. It’s more than just a statue. It’s a story. It’s a conversation. It welcomes you to Auckland. It’s truly unforgettable.