Waimahara, a transformative urban artwork

Opened in Myers Park, Auckland in early 2024, visitors who step into this urban space will discover something deeply meaningful in a new civic art installation called Waimahara.

Auckland City Council’s Public Art team worked with artist Graham Tipene (of Ngāti Whātua, Ngāti Kahu, Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Hauā and Ngāti Manu iwi), Kaynemaile and a team of talented mana whenua composers to create this extraordinary urban artwork.

Jenny Larking of Auckland City Council says Waimahara has turned “an uninviting and desolate car parking space” into a “cultural celebration that looks after the wellbeing of residents”.

Kaynemaile’s translucent Marine coloured mesh is suspended from the underpass, creating a scene which is designed to emulate Te Waihorotiu, the stream that flows quietly underneath the location, through colour, shape and movement.

Waimahara is integrated into the landscape of its location through more than just visual elements and is a sensorial experience of light and sound. Birdsong and water can be heard along with the taonga pūoro instrument, adding layers of ambient sound. The presence of visitors and active weather trigger changes to the light and sound experiences to make this an interactive and vibrant experience.

This project was made from our new RE/8 Architectural Mesh, a 100% recyclable and bio-circular polycarbonate material.

Kaynemaile is more than a material or fabric. It allows kinetic movement to create playful, sculptural environments. This beautiful project highlights how successful projects are realised through our collaborate approach with artists and designers around the world.