Statue of Pania facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pania of the Reef |
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| Year | 1954 |
| Type | bronze |
| Dimensions | 1.5 m (4.9 ft) |
| Location | Napier, New Zealand |
The Statue of Pania is a famous bronze statue located in Napier, New Zealand. It's also known as Pania of the Reef. This special statue honors Pania, a well-known figure from Māori mythology.
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Discovering the Pania Statue
The Pania statue stands proudly on Marine Parade in Napier. It was created to celebrate the story of Pania. Her legend is an important part of Māori culture.
How the Statue Was Made
The idea for the statue came from a group called the Thirty Thousand Club. They heard the legend of Pania from Bishop Frederick Augustus Bennett. He was an important leader in the Anglican church.
To create the statue, several students from Hukarere Girls College posed for photos. One student, Mei Irihapiti Robin (now Mei Whaitiri), was chosen as the main model. Her photos and a traditional piupiu skirt were sent to Italy.
In Carrara, Italy, a company used these to make a clay model. This model then helped create the bronze statue. The finished statue weighs about 60 to 70 kilograms. It was officially shown to the public on June 10, 1954. The Prime Minister at the time, Sidney Holland, unveiled it.
Pania and The Little Mermaid
Many people compare the Pania statue to The Little Mermaid statue. That famous statue is in Copenhagen, Denmark. Both statues are small and made of bronze. They are also both located near the ocean. Plus, both statues are based on similar old stories.
Looking After the Statue
Over the years, the Pania statue has faced some challenges. In 1982, it was damaged but later fixed.
In 2005, the statue was taken from its spot. Luckily, it was found by Jeff Foley and recovered by the police. After being repaired, the statue was put back on November 16, 2005. It continues to be a beloved landmark in Napier.
