Your view: 'Tupperwaka'

The giant $2 million 'Waka Maori', a waka-themed venue made of plastic at Te Wero Island in Auckland, has been proposed for installation on Tauranga's waterfront. Picture/NZH

Controversy - The prospect of installing a 75m plastic waka on the Tauranga waterfront has received plenty of feedback against. Below readers Isabel Ashmore and Peter Wren-Hilton share their views, for and against.

What do you think? Have your say by commenting below.

Refurbish real waka on Strand

''What a ridiculous idea to bring this artificial-looking, monstrous, 75m-long mock-up of a waka to Tauranga - and even worse to the waterfront.

Just what are these people thinking? This cost $2 million in 2011, and now they want to spend more money to bring it to Tauranga.

No, thank you.

If the aim is to establish a cultural, technological and innovation showcase centre for the Bay of Plenty then at least use something authentic.

Why not work on refurbishing the existing real waka which stands neglected and forlorn on the Strand? I don't see hordes of tourists or locals wanting to view this piece of history.

However, if this area was expanded to include the real waka, and developed to provide information and a hands-on experience with regard to the carvings brought out of the shadows of the overhanging trees surrounding the waka in its shelter perhaps this would become an interesting site for locals and tourists to learn about the culture and history surrounding the waka.

I think it is important to be able to share our diverse cultures with tourists, and locals alike but let's not create a huge white elephant.''

- Isabel Ashmore

Give it a chance

"I was fortunate to spend time in the Waka during the Americas Cup in San Francisco last year. Far from being an eyesore, it was a significant attraction at the Team New Zealand base. There is absolutely nothing plastic about the interior. It has high quality finishing and could be used for a variety of attractions.

Your photograph does not illustrate the ability to extend a substantial deck from the side of the Waka, providing incredible indoor / outdoor flow. Such a deck would open up the Waka to Tauranga Harbour and enable designers to integrate the Waka into the Strand environment. In San Francisco, the deck performed an outstanding function, bringing both San Francisco Bay and the Americas Cup racing to the heart of the Waka and all those being entertained there.

With the potential to host the Battle of Gate Pa exhibition, the Waka would provide a facility at a fraction of the price of a new build museum. It would emphasis our heritage and could generate significant tourist inflow into the city. It is an opportunity that requires serious consideration."

- Peter Wren-Hilton