Public submissions open over controversial Queens Wharf sculpture

The latest design (April 2015) for the State House Sculpture on Queens Wharf by artist Michael Parekowhai. Photo / Supplied

Public submissions have begun on an application to build the controversial $1.5 million "lighthouse" sculpture on Queens Wharf.

The sculpture, based on a modest Mt Eden state house, will sit on a wooden plinth at the eastern end of the wharf.

The application for resource consent has been advertised today. Submissions closed on June 8.

After two years of artisitc problems and delays, Auckland Council released the first public images of the sculpture last month.

Artist Michael Parekowhai has abandoned plans for a Venetian crystal chandelier weighing four 4.5 tonnes and depicting a glowing garden of native flowers, birds and insects at a cost of $705,000.

It will be replaced with 10 small chandeliers in a Matariki, referencing the Maori New Year, most of which will be made in New Zealand.

The project has impressed art critics, but labelled a monstrosity and joke by members of the public.

It is being funded by a $1 million donation by real estate firm Barfoot & Thompson. Private donors are contributing the remaining cost.