Bridge Balustrade
Taupo is the Ngāti Toa name for this area. PRA commissioned local designers to work with Ngāti Toa artists to create a balustrade for the bridge entrance to Plimmerton. The wave panels of this beautiful artwork reflect local landmarks of significance to Ngāti Toa.
These landmarks are Tawhiti Kuri the southern boundary towards Titahi Bay, Tāupo the name for the wider area and the original pa, Motuhara the largest land block, Te Rewarewa a significant landmark, Haukopua northern boundary towards Pukerua bay.
The balustrade was officially with a dawn blessing and more than 100 residents attended and were led across the bridge by Ngāti Toa Kaumatua Kahu Ropata.
At a breakfast catered in St Andrews church hall by Dave and the team from The Big Salami speakers from Hongoeka shared some of the rich history behind the names on the bridge balustrade artwork. Designers Linda Kerkmeester and Anne Johnston talked about the design and construction process. Carolyn Williams from Plimmerton Residents’ Association thanks everyone involved and noted that the balustrade is an artwork and a history lesson.