Five pairs of art panels depicting the history and culture of Te Awamutu are being
installed on bridges along the Mangaohoi and Mangapiko streams.
Three of the bridges to be decorated are in Te Awamutu War Memorial Park, one
crosses the Mangapiko Stream on State Highway 3, and the fifth bridge connects
Mutu Street and Shanel Place.
Community services manager Brad Ward said the panels champion the unique
history of Waipā, promoting our culture and history. They were approved by the
council under its Public Art Policy, which promotes culturally vibrant and inspirational
art, creating distinctive and unique public places that residents and visitors alike can
enjoy.
A cultural advisory group was established involving mana whenua representatives to
help inform the look and narrative of the panels. The group selected artist Korotangi
Paki, son of the late Kīngi Tuheitia, as the designer.
“The narratives and design for each bridge panel focus on the confluence of the
Mangaohoi and Mangapiko streams and the significance of Kaipaka Pā,” said Ward.
The estimated cost of the design, materials and manufacturing of the panels is
$36,000, with New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi providing $4800 for the
bridge panel on SH3.
Several iterations in design were required to ensure the panels would be robust and
durable, while also deterring people from climbing on them. Ongoing maintenance
costs are expected to be minimal due to the corten steel construction.
In parallel to the artwork, the Returned Services Association (RSA) have been
working on a panel for each Te Awamutu War Memorial Park bridge.
The RSA panels will be placed on the left of each bridge closest to the sunken cross.
These signs identify the bridges for their associations with the Royal New Zealand
Army, Royal New Zealand Airforce and Royal New Zealand Navy.
The art panels are manufactured and ready for installation while the RSA panels are
expected to be completed in November. A date will be confirmed for an unveiling
ceremony once the RSA signs are completed
