MEDIA RELEASE

12 August 2005

Millennium Tree takes root in the Domain

Next week construction will start on the Chinese Millennium Tree sculpture, which will find a new home surrounded by Phoenix Palms in the Auckland Domain.

The artwork, created by sculptor Guy Ngan, will be gifted to the city by the Chinese New Zealanders Millennium Trust once installation is complete in mid October. It aims to represent the diversity and contribution that Chinese people have made to society in New Zealand.

The sculpture was originally going to be installed in Sir Dove Myer Robinson Park in Parnell in October 2004. A group of local residents opposed this location for a modern sculpture because of the area’s heritage significance.

“Public artwork often stimulates debate because it’s something that people feel strongly about,” says Councillor Penny Sefuiva, chairperson of the Arts, Culture and Recreation Committee.

The new site in the Domain has met with approval from the Chinese New Zealanders Millennium Trust, the artist and relevant stakeholders.

“It has been a challenge to find the right site for such a unique piece of artwork. However, we are confident that the sculpture will add interest and be a talking point within the Auckland Domain and I am assured that all parties are supportive of the new site,” says Mrs Sefuiva.

The Millennium Tree is constructed of stainless steel and will stand 6.5 metres high on a granite pedestal located in a six-metre diameter raised platform.

Construction will start on Tuesday 16 August at 20 Park Road, Grafton (specifically the corner of The Crescent and Kiosk Road) amongst a grove of Phoenix Palm Trees, with completion on Friday 14 October 2005.

The Auckland Domain is also home to sculptures by eight of New Zealand's leading contemporary artists – a project initiated by Sculpture 2001 and supported by Auckland City Council, the PA Edmiston Trust and the Lottery Grants Board.

More information about the Domain Sculpture Walk, is available online at: http://www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/whatson/arts/publicart/sculpturewalk.asp

ENDS

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