Wellington Airport has unveiled its new terminal centrepiece this morning — an illuminated artwork sculpture representing the local bird spirit Manu Muramura.
In May, the airport announced the famous giant eagle sculptures would be replaced after 12 years in the terminal.
The new artwork — spanning a total length of 15m — was created by a team of designers and sculptural artists at Wētā Workshop in Miramar.
The artwork suspended above the main terminal concourse featured a fibreglass body and wings with steel armature, polycarbonate feathers and a 3D-printed head complete with internal lighting.
The feathers were translucent and reflective, which would offer a glittering variety of hues throughout the day as the natural light changed.
Manu Muramura was inspired by the story of taniwha Ngake and Whātaitai of Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington harbour. Longing to explore, Ngake broke free from the harbour but Whātaitai became trapped. As he took his last breath, his spirit ascended in the form a bird, Te Manu Muramura, passing through Rangitatau, the portal to the universe beyond.
Travellers will now be welcomed at the terminal’s main concourse by a giant mythical bird representing the local spirit of Manu Muramura. (Source: Breakfast)
Wellington Airport chief executive Matt Clarke said he was proud to showcase “a uniquely Wellington and New Zealand story”.
“It’s going to provide a totally unique and memorable welcome or farewell for the millions of travellers who pass through every year.
He said working with Wētā Workshop and Kura Moeahu to develop this taonga had been “a great privilege for our airport team”.
Wētā Workshop co-founder and chief creative officer Sir Richard Taylor said it had been fantastic to work with Wellington Airport once again, alongside renowned local artist and designer Manukorihi Winiata.
Kura Moeahu (Te Ātiawa, Ngāruahine, Taranaki-tūturu, Ngāti Mutunga, Ngāti Tama & Ngāti Toa) said it was “wonderful to see this pūrākau brought to life through this beautiful taonga”.
“This sculpture represents our deep connection to whenua and the stories that have shaped Te Whanganui-a-Tara for generations.”
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