Take an art-filled tour of Auckland from anywhere in the world
There’s a new way to explore Auckland that combines public art and marine conservation - and you don’t even have to be in the country to experience it.
The Whale Tales project, launched by WWF-New Zealand, consists of 80 Brig Broos (large) and 80 Pēpi (mini) whale tail sculptures located throughout Auckland’s public spaces which can be explored in-person and via a virtual trail.
Each sculpture has been designed by artists from across New Zealand and comes with a story, accessed via the Whale Tales app, about the artist and what each artwork represents.
The trail stretches from Pukekohe across to the Great Barrier and Waiheke Islands.
It was conceptualised to “capture the hearts of kiwis, near and far,” and catalyse “positive action to protect Bryde’s whales and restore our ocean’s health”, according to a statement from WWF-NZ.
WWF-NZ chief executive Livia Esterhazy said Bryde’s whales are vulnerable to plastic pollution, unsustainable fishing practices, climate change, and other human activities.
“Bryde’s whales are an indicator of ocean health. If our whale populations are healthy and thriving, it is a sign our ocean is also healthy and thriving,” Ms Esterhazy said.
The tales will be on display for 12 weeks, during which time there will also be light shows on the harbour bridge, seminars, and the launch of Hauraki Broo, a children’s book about the importance of conserving marine life.
At the end of the display, the Big Broos sculptures will then be auctioned off to raise funds for WWF-NZ, while the Pēpi sculptures will be returned to the schools that made them.
“So not only can you own an incredible piece of art, but the funds raised will go to support WWF’s vital work to protect our ocean and marine species, like the Hauraki Gulf’s national critically-endangered resident Bryde’s whale,” Ms Esterhazy said.
To view the virtual tour, head here.
Image: @whaletales2022 (Instagram)