Wellington Airport unveils new terminal centrepiece created by Wētā Workshop
Wellington Airport has unveiled its much-anticipated new terminal centrepiece this morning: an illuminated artwork sculpture representing the local bird spirit Manu Muramura.
The artwork has a total length of 15 metres suspended above the main terminal concourse and was created by a team of designers and sculptural artists at Wētā Workshop in Miramar. It features a fibreglass body and wings with steel armature, polycarbonate feathers and 3D printed head complete with internal lighting.
The feathers are translucent and reflective which will offer a glittering variety of hues throughout the day as the natural light changes.
Manu Muramura is inspired by the pūrākau (story) of taniwha Ngake and Whātaitai of Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington harbour. Longing to explore, Ngake broke free from the harbour but Whātaitai became trapped. As he took his last breath, his spirit ascended in the form a bird, Te Manu Muramura, passing through Rangitatau, the portal to the universe beyond.
Wellington Airport chief executive Matt Clarke says:
“Wellington Airport has made headlines around the world for our terminal showpieces, and we’re especially proud of this one because it tells a uniquely Wellington and New Zealand story.
“It’s going to provide a totally unique and memorable welcome or farewell for the millions of travellers who pass through every year.
“Working with Wētā Workshop and Kura Moeahu to develop this taonga has been a great privilege for our airport team.”
Wētā Workshop Co-founder and Chief Creative Officer Richard Taylor says:
"We're proud to support Wellington Airport in representing the story of Manu Muramura, a powerful and inspiring origin story of the place we call home. It's been fantastic to work with them once again, alongside renowned local artist and designer Manukorihi Winiata, in creating something uniquely Wellington to welcome and farewell visitors."
Kura Moeahu (Te Atiawa, Nga Ruahine, Taranaki-tuturu, Ngati Mutunga, Ngati Tama & Ngati Toa) says:
"It's wonderful to see this pūrākau brought to life through this beautiful taonga. This sculpture represents our deep connection to whenua and the stories that have shaped Te Whanganui-a-Tara for generations.
“I'm proud that manuhiri from around the world will now experience our story and understand the spiritual significance of this place through Manu Muramura."
Further information on the design
The sculpture features illuminated artwork under the beak and throat in the form of a flame with the patterns a combination of Puhoro (Movement), Ngutu Kākā (Beak of a Kākā) and Koru (new life and growth). These were designed by artist Manukorihi Winiata.
The patterns and location around beak speak to the idea of a warm welcome to visitors that arrive at the Airport via the pathways created by Te Manu Muramura; an expression of Manaakitanga through karanga.
Manukorihi Winiata’s design is strongly based on the form of a flame and complimenting elements from his artwork for Wellington Airport’s new brand in 2024.
