Ann Fletcher MFA (hons)

I am writing to share my thoughts regarding the proposed 20-foot giant kiwi sculpture planned for the entrance to our town at The Hub.

While I fully appreciate that art is entirely subjective and understand the intent behind celebrating our proud status as the Kiwi Capital of the World, I believe this specific design misses the mark for what should be a defining gateway symbol for Whakatāne.

An entry sculpture should serve as a welcoming, instantly recognisable landmark that truly reflects the spirit of New Zealand and our unique local environment.

The proposed abstract steel sculpture lacks the organic warmth and natural character of the very bird we are trying to honour.

Instead of an abstract form that divides community opinion, our town entrance deserves something that carries a deeper, more authentic connection to New Zealand.

We only have to look down the road to the recent Kiwi Art Trail in Tauranga to see how public art can successfully capture the hearts of a community.

The 20 larger-than-life-kiwi sculptures featured in that initiative retained the classic, recognisable form of the kiwi while bursting with warmth, vibrant colour, and distinct personality.

Crucially, they were painted by New Zealand artists, each bringing local stories and cultural depth to life on a recognisable canvas.

Whakatāne has a spectacular real-life kiwi conservation story built on decades of hard work by local volunteers, iwi and community groups.

Our gateway art should mirror that dedication by being distinctly kiwi.

I urge those behind the project to reconsider the current design and look towards a concept that celebrates the classic form of our national icon – embracing the warmth, colour and artistic talent that New Zealand creators do best.