Statue of Wairaka facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The Lady on the Rock |
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| Artist | Jim Allen |
| Year | 1965 |
| Type | Bronze |
| Location | Whakatāne Heads, New Zealand |
The Statue of Wairaka is also known as The Lady on the Rock. You can find it at Whakatāne Heads in Whakatāne, New Zealand. This statue honors a brave Māori woman named Wairaka. Her story is an important part of New Zealand's history.
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Who Was Wairaka?
Wairaka was the daughter of Toroa. Toroa was the captain of the Mātaatua waka (canoe). This large canoe traveled a long way from Hawaiki to New Zealand.
Wairaka's Brave Act
When the Mātaatua waka first arrived in the Whakatāne area, the men went ashore. They left the women alone in the canoe. But the canoe started to drift back out to sea. This was a big problem!
At that time, women were not allowed to handle a waka. However, Wairaka knew she had to act fast. She bravely picked up a paddle. She then led the other women to paddle the canoe back to shore. As she paddled, she called out, "Kia Whakatāne au i ahau!" This means, "I will act the part of a man!" Her quick thinking saved everyone on board.
Creating the Statue
The idea for the statue came from Sir William Sullivan. He was a former mayor of Whakatāne. He wanted to create the statue after his wife, Lady Sullivan, passed away in 1963.
A Symbol of Unity
Sir William wanted the statue to be a special memorial for his wife. He also wanted it to show the strong connection between all people in the Whakatāne District. He chose Jim Allen to create the artwork. Jim Allen was a senior lecturer at the Elam School of Fine Arts in Auckland.
The statue was finished and placed on Turuturu-Roimata rock in 1965. It is made of bronze.
About the Statue
The statue shows Wairaka standing tall and strong. It reminds everyone of her courage and leadership. It stands as a symbol of bravery and unity for the community.
Protecting the Statue
Over the years, the statue has sometimes been damaged. For example, in 2007, someone painted it white and yellow. The community works to keep the statue safe and respected.
