Unique project at Kapiti Coast Airport

DESIGN: Work is well underway to create a new a public art space in Paraparaumu.

A unique new public space next to Kapiti Coast Airport, featuring a native wetland and interpretative art features, is progressing well, with work due to be completed in the next two months.

The 4000m2 space will be named Te Huarahi Raupo, which means 'the journey through the wetland', referring to the native wetlands previously found along Kapiti's coastal ribbon that were used by Maori to travel throughout the district.

Sir Noel Robinson, who fostered the initiative, said the key idea was acknowledge the original land owners of the airport land and to offer a reflective space for descendants and the wider community.

The first of five large sculptural elements was installed on the Kapiti Rd site last week as part of the development of the area for public use that is being funded by Todd Property Group, the owner of the airport and the adjacent Kapiti Landing business park.

"We are pleased that work on this fantastic public space is progressing and look forward to opening it up to the local community and visitors to the district as a living museum for people to learn and appreciate the stunning natural habitat that Kapiti offers," Todd Property managing director Evan Davies said.

The design of the new space has been guided by internationally renowned designer Ben Hoyle and carried out in collaboration with local iwi who hold historic associations with the land that now comprises Kapiti Coast Airport.

"It tells the story of their connection to the land and includes distinctive artistic elements such as four atua pou carved by local master carver Chris Gerretzen," Mr Davies said.

"It also includes five contemporary sculptures designed by Ben Hoyle to symbolise the many ancestral connections of tangata whenua.

"New pathways and a lawn area are included in the design along with native planting designed to enhance the natural environment and information panels which tell the history of people and place."

At the start of the project the ground was blessed and the first sod of earth turned by local kaumatua.

Local iwi and kaumatua will also be involved at the formal opening.

From their perspective, this is a public space for the community.