July 16, 2018
Papatuānuku to rise above Takaparawhau
A massive statue which would assert Ngāti Whātua Ōrakei's status as the city's mana whenua.
The hapu is proposing a sculpture of Papatuānuku on Takaparahwau that could be as big as New York's Statue of Liberty.
Auckland mayor Phil Goff says having a statue that reflects Auckland's unique identity and Maori culture would be a great asset to the city.
He would like the sculpture to be ready in time for the America's Cup and APEC summit in Auckland in 2021.
The council has earmarked $100,000 for the concept development phase and a further $900,000 for its implementation.
Ngāti Whātua Ōrakei Trust spokesperson Ngārimu Blair said the sculpture would help boost Māori involvement in the tourism sector.
It's just one of the options being considered by Ngāti Whātua Ōrakei Trust.
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