I feel incredibly grateful and proud to have been part of the Muriwai Commemorative Sculpture project team. It’s been a deeply meaningful journey, and a huge thanks goes to artist Jeff Thomson for his powerful vision and for leading the creative process with such heart.
The sculpture, named Pou Hihiri, is made up of seven striking columns, crafted from materials recovered from Category 3 homes in Muriwai — a poignant reminder of the resilience and spirit of this community.
One of the most special parts of the project for me was working alongside a small team to run mosaic workshops for local residents. These sessions gave people the opportunity to contribute their own creative touch to the sculpture — sitting side by side, making, talking, sharing stories, and simply being together. It was a beautiful reminder of the healing and connection that happens through art.
Pou Hihiri was officially unveiled on 23 March and now stands at the corner of Waitea and Motutara Roads, just opposite Sandunz. It’s a place for reflection, remembrance, and community — a space that belongs to all of us.