Monumental appeal for lovable dog

by Anita Moran anita.moran@dailypost.co.nz
Ngati Whakaue Tribal Lands has kick-started an appeal to raise funds for a monument to Rotorua's favourite stray, Harawene.

The newly formed Harawene of Wharanui Action Group are lobbying for funds to pay for a bronze statue of the dog who spent most of her life living on the side of Te Ngae Rd.

Harawene disappeared in May this year, and after a group of friends were discussing a fitting monument, the Harawene of Wharanui Action Group was formed.

The group, headed by Fiona Cairns, envisages a monument for the dog and for it to become a Rotorua tourist attraction.

Ms Cairns said there had been a lot of interest in the project.

"Once we have raised the money for the statue, we hope the local SPCA can take over the business of selling memorabilia."

She said they will be promoting nationwide to raise the $10,000 needed for the life-size sculpture.

Ngati Whakaue Tribal Lands supported the cause by helping to set up the fund and kick-started donations by giving the group $500.

The statue is being made by retired Taranaki surgeon Fridtjof Hanson. Mr Hanson was responsible for the statue of Peter Snell in Wanganui.

Ms Cairns said to help fundraise the group are also appealing to Rotorua businesses to offer goods and services that can be raffled off.

Harawene, believed to be a terrier cross, ran away when she came to Rotorua with her Tokoroa family about 15 years ago.

She lived on the side of Te Ngae Rd, near the intersection of Robinson Ave, ever since, running away from anyone who has tried to get close.