Thousands Visit Parihaka In First Week

www.parihaka.city-gallery.org.nz

"Exceptional - this story must be told." "A moving reminder of this ongoing struggle - and so great to be able to hear and talk to some of the people of Parihaka." Comments from the Visitors Book City Gallery Wellington experienced a busy week following the emotionally-charged opening ceremony of Parihaka - The Art of Passive Resistance. Over six thousand people have already visited the exhibition, with visitors travelling from throughout New Zealand to see the show.

"We have been overwhelmed by the response from visitors, Maori and Pakeha, many of whom have been moved to tears by the profoundly spiritual atmosphere of the exhibition," said Paula Savage, director. Says Parihaka spokesperson Te Miringa Hohaia, "The success of Parihaka rests with the people who come to see, hear and feel the spirit which is Parihaka. Our intention is to provide a platform which draws people together rather than alienating them from each other. The compelling histories and experiences we must face and resolve can be approached in the same way at Parihaka."

Comments in the Visitors Book show that the exhibition has introduced many people to the story of Parihaka for the first time. Those who are unfamiliar with its history can get an introduction through free videos, films, and weekend tours and talks by staff and young people from Parihaka. A 30 minute video entitled The Ploughmen of Taranaki (Epitaph series) is running continuously throughout the day, with screenings of Te Whiti & Tohu (Pounamu series, TVNZ 1990) at the City Cinema on most days.

The free weekend talks on aspects of Parihaka, have also attracted large audiences. This Sunday, Paula Savage gives a personal tour of the exhibition, with an insight into how Parihaka evolved into a reality (10 Sept, 3pm). A partnership project between City Gallery Wellington and Parihaka Pa Trustees. Generously supported by: New Zealand Millennium Office; The New Zealand Lottery Grants Board; Creative New Zealand Arts Council of New Zealand Toi Aotearoa; Wellington City Council; Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa; Taranaki Museum. Generously sponsored by: Bell Gully Barristers and Solicitors; Wakatu Incorporation; Tohu Wines; Parininihi Ki Waitotara Incorporation; The Dominion; The Evening Post; Saatchi & Saatchi; City Gallery Wellington Foundation. City Gallery Wellington is managed by the Wellington Museums Trust with major funding from the Wellington City Council. ENDS.

Anne Irving Publicist T: 04 801 3959 F: 04 801 3950 Check out: http://www.city-gallery.org.nz

© Scoop Media