Kapua Pekapeka
This design is representative of kowhaiwhai (painted design), taniko (intricate weaving) and Whakairo rakau (wood carving).
Inspired by the Pekapeka’s unique sonar, echo-location ability, the design covers the glass balustrades creating a soft feathered cloud feeling to the terminal, while acknowledging the convergence of people from nga hau e wha (the four corners of the world) to this place.
A prominent design element in this design is the radiating sonar elements (half circles) specifically created for the Hamilton Airport terminal.
The image above shows our print and installation team from Vivid Images installing the design.
Artist: Eugene Kara
Iwi: Ngaati Korokii, Kahukura, Ngaati Tipa, Ngaati Kahungunu, Ngaati Paahauwera, Ngaati Tuuwharetoa, Ngaa Rauru Kiitahi, Te Aatihaunui-a-Paapaarangi
As Puukenga Toi, Eugene has lead the curation and co-ordination of cultural artworks for Hamilton Airport.
Eugene is a professional artist, specialising in public sculpture, lost-wax bronze casting and design. He has a particular skill-set that leads him toward cultural navigation, co-design and project management with a cultural focus. He is an advocate for integrating indigenous knowledge in regional blueprints.
Eugene is the co-founder of the first Maaori bronze casting studio at The New Zealand Maaori Arts and Crafts Institute, Te Puia, Rotorua.
He is an experienced art educator with a demonstrated history of working within education management. Further, he is skilled in management, strategy, Maaori tourism, project management, advocacy, art education and arts administration.
Eugene holds a Master of Fine Arts (MFA, Hons) from Elam School of Fine Art, University of Auckland.
