Te Mata Topaki

Artist: Graham Tipene, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei & LandLAB

Year: 2020

Location: Waitematā Plaza

Extending 30 metres out from Waitematā Plaza into the Viaduct Harbour waterspace, Te Mata Topaki has become a distinctive feature of Auckland’s waterfront landscape. The sculptural, pier-like installation — designed by LandLAB in collaboration with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei — offers dramatic views from a previously inaccessible vantage point, encompassing a panoramic backdrop of Auckland City’s skyline, the Viaduct Harbour marina, and the Waitematā horizon beyond.

Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei artist Graham Tipene joined LandLAB on the creative journey, helping transform the structure from a simple wharf extension into a striking sculptural form that represents a taurapa (the stern of a waka) lying on its side. Privately commissioned by Viaduct Harbour Holdings, the structure is intended to strengthen the public’s connection to the water. Its name, Te Mata Topaki — meaning “to hover over the headland” — a clue as to the experience it sets out to create.