An underpass at Myers Park — an historic walkway in Auckland’s city centre — has been transformed as part of an upgrade that showcases the stunning light and sound from artwork designed with mana whenua.
The new artwork, named Waimahara, is inspired by the Waihorotiu Stream, which used to run through the park and Queen St before it was covered in the 19th century.
Underneath shimmering aqua-blue light, the multi-sensory experience and revamped Myers Park have been 10 years in the making. As part of the park upgrade, there's also a new pedestrian stairway, more native trees and wetland gardens.
Opening by the end of the year, initially in an ambient form, Waimahara is integrated into the landscape of the Mayoral Drive underpass.
Auckland Council's Hayley Wolters said there were a thousand different combinations of light and sound people would experience as they went through the underpass.
"No two passes will be the same," she said.
"For now, we are giving visitors an ambient experience, themed around the remembering of water. Early next year, when we have installed the speakers and a microphone on-site, Waimahara will become interactive.
"At that point, you will be able to learn one of two waiata and sing it in the park.
"With accurate rhythm and pitch, your singing will trigger another dimension of audio and light response. It will be well worth the wait."
Artist Graham Tipene (Ngāti Whātua, Ngāti Kahu, Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Hauā, Ngāti Manu) helped demonstrate the interactive experience to 1News and said he wanted Waimahara to help Aucklanders remember the significance of the Waihorotiu Stream.
"It was the biggest inspiration. My first site visit here, I knew straight away, this is the path the awa (river) went, straight down here to Queen St."
Auckland Council's public art manager David Thomas said the park upgrade would also make the walkway more inclusive and welcoming to visitors.
The second part of Waimahara is expected to be complete by March next year.
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