Local artists have created five designs for a sculpture planned for Moana Reserve in Ōrewa.
The designs will be on show at the Estuary Arts Centre throughout June, giving people an opportunity to choose their favourite. The designs all focus on the theme of water, and the winning sculpture will replace the fountain which was removed from the reserve several years ago.
The new sculpture will attract a lot of interest given its proximity to the town centre and beach, and Hibiscus and Bays Local Board is keen to collect public input.
Local board chair Julia Parfitt says that the fountain is being replaced as repair wasn't possible. The replacement water feature must fit the council's renewal budget criteria, and the funding cannot be allocated to other projects.
“We are excited and impressed with the designs, and hope that our community are too," she says.
"Everyone loves and is very proud of our beautiful public spaces, so it’s important to choose an option we can enjoy for years to come."
Estuary Arts Centre Manager Kim Boyd agrees and says public opinion about public artwork can be polarising.
"It is important to trigger a healthy debate in the engagement process. We encourage you to have your say and keep an open mind during the engagement process.”
Designer Nick Hindson says that the designers are very excited about receiving feedback from the public consultation.
"Creating the right balance of art, sculpture, water feature and sense of place has been the centre of tension in the design and creation of these concepts."
From 18 June, details of the five designs titled Airborne, Bloom, Fleet, Harp and Pacific Motion will be on the council website at aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/haveyoursay.
Have your say
Consultation is open now.
- Attend a drop-in session to view the designs and talk to the artists on Tuesday, 18 June 6pm-8pm or Saturday, 22 June 10am-12pm at Estuary Arts Centre, 214B Hibiscus Coast Highway, Ōrewa.
- Give feedback online at aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/haveyoursay. The survey is open from 18 June to 7 July.
