Vaka ‘A Hina will be installed on the East Frame of the central city.
The sculpture by Tongan artist Sēmisi Fetokai Potauaineis made of corten steel and will
be installed on October 3.
The sculpture will become the first permanent piece of Pasifika artwork in the city.
It will be lit up day and night. A spectrum of colourswill be available to customise the illumination of the sculpture for special occasions such as green for St Patrick’s Day and pink for Breast Cancer awareness.
Mr Potauaine said he hoped the sculpture would become a beacon and meeting point for people.
“Beautiful things unite people and I always try to make beautiful things,” he said.
“With the recent tragedy in the city, I do hope the presence of Vaka ‘A Hina, as a way-finder, offers relief to those who have been stricken and provides connection to those who have been separated.”
SCAPE Public Art is undertaking the project in partnership with the city council.
The total budget for the project is $275,000 with the city council making a $43,000 contribution towards the sculpture’s lighting.
Vaka ‘A Hina translates to ‘Vessel of Hina’ in English. Hina is a Tongan goddess who lives on the moon above the langi (sky) in vāvā (outer space) and travels frequently back and forth to maama (earth).
Vaka ‘A Hina can be imagined as the vessel or receptacle she uses as transportation on these intergalactic trips.
