Tiramarama Way Auckland CBD
(Photo Credit: Rachel Alexander)
In July Tiramarama Way was opened in the heart of Auckland, designed by Wraight Associates in collaboration with Lisa Reihana. The lane is an interpretation of Waitemata Harbour and its past time use as a Mahinga Kai!
We are proud to say that our team of riggers installed the tension cables, which has been tension to over 1000kgs to support the lights being hung from the cables. This catenary lighting system is one of our favorites so far, not only for its aesthetic look, but the mana behind it. The catenary lighting system celebrates Maori astronomy, featuring the Te Punga (The Southern Cross) and Matariki.
Tiramarama Way means to glimmer, shine and light the way. This interpretation also features purposeful puddles which have been designed to rise and fall with the tide.
Ngati Whatua Orakei – Matt Maihi, Bob Hawke, Tihei Tamaariki & Mgaati Whanaunga, Martin Te Moni from Ngaati Whanaunga and Te Akitai Waiohua – Adrian Pettit blessed the site before construction was started.
Photo Credit: Wraight + Associates. http://blog.waal.co.nz/tiramarama-blessing/
We are proud to see that the new development for Wynard Quarter is and will be acknowledging Auckland’s Maori history. With other laneways being named after Maori lunar and celestial systems, showing the obligations to Mana Whenua.
The other lanes which feature around Tiramarama Way all co-relate and tie in to New Zealands Maori Heritage.
Lane A: Puanga Way – Beginning of Harvest Cycle, reflecting the 7th brightest star seen above Tautoru in early morning.
Lane B: Mahuru Way – Spring Cycle of initial Growth, representing the fourth month in the Maori lunar calendar.
Lane C: Autahi Way, signifying the Canopus – the second brightest star, son of Takurua.
Lane D: Waikokota Way – An extension of the existing lane naming across Madden Street.
Lane E: Pipiri Way – reflecting the first month of Maori lunar calendar (The connection of arrival and departure – beginning to end).
A big shout out goes to some of the other contractors involved in this project, including Jagas who were tasked with creating 8 ton ‘puddles’ as well as small stepping stones and concrete planters which really set off the Laneway.