Guide Kaiārahi by Reuben Paterson
One of the must-see installations in Auckland is the Guide Kaiārahi, an incredible art installation created by Reuben Paterson. Standing at an impressive ten meters tall, it towers over Auckland Art Gallery's forecourt pool with hundreds of dazzling crystals that shine with iridescence. Inspired by the legend of a phantom waka that appeared at Lake Tarawera before the eruption of Mt Tarawera in 1886, Crystal Waka is a breathtaking depiction of a journey from Papatūānuku (the land) to Ranginui (the sky).
The Lighthouse by Michael Parekōwhai
Another must-see work of art is The Lighthouse by Michael Parekowhai, located on Queens Wharf in the heart of the city. From the outside, it looks like a typical 1950s family home, but once you step inside, you'll be transported to a whole new world. The interior is filled with neon lights that represent star constellations and there is a sculpture of Captain Cook, titled The English Channel, who sits among the stars, adding a sense of grounding to the piece.
Maunga by Shane Cotton
Maunga, created by the talented artist Shane Cotton, is another magnificent five-storey high permanent artwork located in Britomart. Maunga was actually brought to life from a series of 25 works on paper and each pot in the artwork bears the name of a maunga or mountain, which reinforces the city's role as a place where people from all over the country come together.
The Western Wall: Whales Once Again by Cinzah Merkens
The Western Wall: Whales Once Again by Cinzah Merkens is another awe-inspiring installation that you must see. Spanning the entire western wall of New Zealand Maritime Museum, this artwork measures an impressive 150 metres long and eight metres high! The mural reflects the Maritime Museum's focus on ocean health and sustainability, and depicts marine life found in our waters, including a life-sized humpback whale and giant octopus, hammerhead and mako sharks, kahawai, and snapper. It's a breathtaking display of art and environmental awareness that will leave you in awe.