Perch safely in the sub-canopy of a Himalayan cedar tree in Albert Park while taking in Tāmaki Makaurau from a bird’s eye view.
For two weeks, Aucklanders will be able climb a specially constructed scaffolding staircase wrapped around a 50-metre tall tree in the Princes Street park as part of the Walking in Trees project.
The outdoor installation art project, running from August 31 to September 15, is supported by Waitamatā Local Board and Auckland Council through a $13,000 grant from the City Centre Targeted Rate.
With the aim of connecting communities through public art, ecology events and installations, Walking in Trees is presented by Wilde Projects and organised by a collective of nature lovers and art enthusiasts.
“Walking in Trees allows urban dwellers to reconnect with the natural world around them,” project spokesperson and local artist Richard Orjis says.
“It also gives people the opportunity to explore the city from a new perspective and learn about the park’s unique history.”
Richard says along with the sculptural installation, there will be talks and free workshops – for all ages.
The project debuted in 2014 in the park, with more than 5000 visitors making their way to the top of a Moreton Bay fig tree.
“It was very successful and a wonderful experience for Aucklanders, so this time we wanted to do more and illuminate Albert Park’s fascinating history.”
Built on the remnants of an ancient volcano, a pā site and military barracks, the park has also been a site for anti-war demonstrations, music festivals and queer protests.
“A lot of the park’s history remains unnoticed. We are hoping to bring that super rich history to the surface.”
Richard says the “robust and specially designed” scaffolding is large enough for people to walk, sit and relax on it at a height of around 12 metres. Safety balustrades wrap around all sides of the structure and an attendant is on-site at all times.
Open to the public from 9am to 5pm, Walking in Trees is free to the public.
Further information about the project can be found at Wilde Projects on Facebook.
