Waimahara

Visitors to the northern end of Auckland’s Myers Park will see a shimmering of aqua blue light beneath the underpass and feel the emotion of mana whenua artistry in a contemporary form they might never have experienced before.

Named Waimahara, this Graham Tipene artwork seeks to awaken the senses of visitors to the presence of ancient waters, now flowing beneath the ground, in this inner-city valley.
Auckland Council’s Public Art team worked with artist Graham Tipene (Ngāti Whātua, Ngāti Kahu, Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Hauā, Ngāti Manu), a team of talented mana whenua composers and several NZ companies to create the extraordinary artwork; which is unique in New Zealand, if not the world.
Opened at the end of 2023, Waimahara is integrated into the landscape of the Mayoral Drive underpass in Myers Park providing a sensorial experience including lighting and audio effects – made up from birdsong, & ‘taonga pūoro’, water sounds.

Global Stainless were engaged to fabricate the six large ‘Hinaki’ eel nets (traditional Maori fishing nets) That are suspended from the underpass. Made from laser cut stainless steel, the nets proved challenging to make, requiring innovation and expertise to create the unique double curved forms in a variety of shapes and sizes. Once formed & welded the ‘Hinaki’ were sent for electro polishing before being fitted with resin .
Graham Tipene explains he wanted this artwork to support feelings of inclusiveness, belonging and welcome, by asking people to take part.

“With most artwork, you stand in front of it. But I wanted us to think differently with this one. I wanted the experience to surround you. I wanted this artwork to ask you to prepare your senses - to look, feel and listen,” Tipene explains.