The Māwhera Pā, Pounamu Pathway is a 1,200-meter-long, 1.5-meter-wide, and 1.5-meter-high walkway that stretches across the Greymouth River, connecting the city’s central business district to the riverfront.
The Concept and Design
The Māwhera Pā, Pounamu Pathway is an innovative and culturally significant project that combines art, architecture, and technology to create a unique and immersive experience for visitors.
The pathway’s design is inspired by the traditional Māori concept of whakapapa, which emphasizes the importance of storytelling and cultural heritage.
The Pounamu Pathway: A Journey Through New Zealand’s Cultural Heritage
The Pounamu Pathway is a 1.5-kilometer-long, 10-meter-wide, and 1-meter-high walkway that winds its way through the heart of Auckland’s CBD. This unique attraction is not just a pedestrian path, but a journey through New Zealand’s cultural heritage, showcasing the country’s rich history, mythology, and traditions.
Design and Architecture
The Pounamu Pathway’s design and architecture are key components of its success. Wētā Workshop, a renowned New Zealand-based design and effects company, played a crucial role in crafting a unique storytelling experience using modern technology, audio, video, and sculpture. A team of 300 creatives worked tirelessly to bring the pathway’s vision to life. The use of modern technology, such as LED lights and projection mapping, creates an immersive experience for visitors.
The Māwhera Pā, Pounamu Pathway is a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.
The Cultural Significance of Māwhera Pā, Pounamu Pathway
The Māwhera Pā, Pounamu Pathway is more than just a building – it’s a living, breathing representation of the rich cultural heritage of Poutini Ngāi Tahu. The project’s designers and architects have worked tirelessly to ensure that every element, from the exterior façade to the interior design, reflects the unique identity and traditions of the local iwi (tribe). By incorporating traditional Māori designs and motifs, the building pays homage to the history and culture of the area. The project’s cultural significance is further underscored by the use of traditional materials and techniques, such as kauri wood and natural fibers, which are woven into the building’s structure and design. The incorporation of Poutini Ngāi Tahu’s own language and customs has also been a key aspect of the project, with the building’s signage and branding featuring the tribe’s own words and phrases. The Māwhera Pā, Pounamu Pathway is also a celebration of the region’s natural beauty, with the building’s design taking inspiration from the surrounding landscape and incorporating elements of the local flora and fauna.
The Design and Architecture of Māwhera Pā, Pounamu Pathway
The Māwhera Pā, Pounamu Pathway’s design is a masterclass in cultural sensitivity and modern design. The building’s exterior façade features a striking combination of traditional and modern elements, with the use of natural materials and bold colors creating a striking visual impact.
This project is a collaboration between Harrisons Greymouth and Feltex Custom Design, with a woven carpet designed by Feltex being the star of the show. The carpet will be featured in some amazing photos taken by Stewart Nimmo and Peter Anderson.
The Māwhera Pā Project: A Collaborative Effort
The Māwhera Pā project is a unique and exciting initiative that brings together two local businesses, Harrisons Greymouth and Feltex Custom Design, to create something truly special. The project is set to be completed in 2024, and it’s already generating a lot of buzz in the community.
What’s in Store for the Project? A woven carpet designed by Feltex Custom Design will be the centerpiece of the project
The Design Process
The design process for the Māwhera Pā project was a collaborative effort between the two businesses. The team worked together to create a unique and innovative design that would showcase the woven carpet. The design process involved several stages, including:
The team used a variety of techniques and tools to bring the design to life, including computer-aided design (CAD) software and 3D printing.
The Impact of the Project
The Māwhera Pā project has the potential to make a significant impact on the community.
