Cutting-edge sculpture poses dilemma

The buyers of Jeff Thomson's $18,000 'Contour' sculpture are giving it to Waiheke, but finding a home for the 20m corrugated galvanised steel piece is proving a challenge. Picture / Amos Chapple

Waiheke Island art lovers and the Auckland City Council are struggling to find a permanent home for a large, expensive - and potentially dangerous - sculpture.

The piece, titled Contour, by sculptor Jeff Thomson, was part of February's outdoor Sculpture on the Gulf exhibition and was bought by a group of Waiheke residents as a gift to the island.

But the $18,000 work, made of corrugated galvanised steel, is proving problematic, especially as its sharp edges could cut children who try to play on it.

It cannot stay put as its resource consent has expired, and the island's community board has asked the city council to consider possible locations.

The buyers say the size of the piece - about 20m long - means it would be ideally suited to a permanent home within view of the island's gateway, Matiatia wharf.

Suggested sites include the northern heads of Matiatia, or a point below its present position above Matiatia Bay.

Council community planning group manager Mark Vinall said no decision had yet been made.

"We are just starting to have a look at what options there are."

The sculpture's sharp edges would complicate matters, Mr Vinall said. The council might need to consider fencing it off.

Recommendations will be sent to the council's arts, culture and recreation committee.