Viaduct sculpture began as 60th birthday present

Denis O'Connor's work celebrates migrant and trading traditions. Picture / Dean Purcell

A sculpture paying tribute to port workers and migrant ships has been unveiled on a pedestrian boulevard in Auckland's Viaduct Harbour.

Standing 6.5m high and 7.2m across on Viaduct Harbour Ave, Raupo Rap was handed over to Auckland Mayor Dick Hubbard last night.

"I'm absolutely delighted with the artwork," said Mr Hubbard, who stressed the importance of public art throughout the city.

Raupo Rap was designed by artist Denis O'Connor, whose father was killed while working on the wharf.

It consists of one main pillar and three smaller ones - each with the name of a migrant ship on the base - and a large, stainless-steel hook to symbolise the loading and unloading of cargo ships. The smaller columns are decorated with raupo flower patterns. The sculpture's shape signifies welcome and protection.

Raupo Rap was commissioned by the Auckland City Sculpture Trust for $200,000. The Auckland City Council is now responsible for its maintenance.

Prime Minister Helen Clark, who attended the celebration, praised the relationship between the trust and the city. The sculpture was funded in unusual circumstances.

Property investor Adrian Burr, whose offices overlook Raupo Rap, asked friends for his 60th birthday in June 2003 not to give him a present but make a donation towards a public sculpture.