Source: Auckland Council
Dawn broke, Te Punga was revealed.
On a crisp March morning, as the first light of day gently spread across the sky, the quiet anticipation of the crowd filled the air. The soft glow of dawn illuminated the space, casting long shadows across the ground, creating a serene atmosphere as the Te Punga sculpture was unveiled.
The moment was simple, yet profound, connecting the past and present while honouring the land and its cultural significance.
The Anchor. Image: Simon Runting.
Te Punga, created by Ngāti Te Ata Waiohua artist Pāora Puru and sculptor Chris van Doren, stands as a stunning public taonga.
Dawn blessing by mana whenua. Image: Simon Runting.
The sculpture, meaning “The Anchor” – symbolises a waka anchor, as a reference to the area being a traditional waka trading route, was revealed in a ceremony that included Māngere College students, Mana Whenua, Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board, Watercare and local community members.
The inscription on the sculpture helps the public understand its meaning and significance. Image: Simon Runting.
Board chair Tauanu’u Nick Bakulich says, “The Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board area is blessed with strong mana whenua and mataawaka organisations, whose support helps nurture and celebrate our community. It’s truly special to have Mana Whenua share our Māori history and stories in public spaces, honouring our rich Māori identity. We are also home to local heritage sites like Ōtuataua Stonefields, Te Pane o Mataoho Māngere Mountain, and Pūkaki Crater, so it’s wonderful to add Te Punga to this.”
The sculpture, crafted from basalt rock excavated during the Watercare Central Interceptor tunnel project, was transformed by Ngāti Te Ata Waiohua artist Pāora Puru and sculptor Chris van Doren.
The raw basalt was taken to Chris’s studio at the Pacifica Arts Centre in West Auckland to be shaped.
Te Punga honours the cultural significance of Te Maanukanuka o Hoturoa (the Manukau Harbour) to the Waiohua iwi. It symbolises the many waka (canoes) that once anchored in these waters, serving as a vital link for people through transport, trade, and tradition.
L-R: Sculptor Chris van Doren, Ngāti Te Ata Waiohua artist Pāora Puru and board chair Tauanu’u Nick Bakulich.
The sculpture can be found at the corner of Creamery Road and Greenwood Road, by the Māngere Lagoon, Māngere Bridge (near Māngere Domain).
A deeply meaningful and solemn moment at the dawn blessing and unveiling of Te Punga. Image: Simon Runting.
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