The large Totara log was carried onto the site by the carvers and work was watched with interest throughout the day as the sculpture took shape. The organisers of ArtBeat commissioned the work from Wihongi Design, a company specialising in contemporary Maori design set up by brothers Tom, Tu and Hori Wihongi (Thomas, Stanford and George Wihongi).

The traditional Maori carving tool, the adze, was used in conjunction with modern chisels and power tools. In this way a variety of textures is achieved. The red ochre finish applied to the carving is a modern derivation, made today from iron oxides mixed with oil. Traditionally, Maori carvings were finished with red ochre, as a preservative for the wood, as well as being used ceremonially, applied to carvings and to people. The similarity in appearance between person and carved figure, thereby accentuated.

In selecting the design image, care was taken to combine Maori and Pakeha elements, to ensure that Te Rongopai is a multi-cultural portrayal of the community. The two figures are therefore represented in a contemporary style, rather than being strictly traditional.
The carving was continued off- site under the direction of master carver Te Warihi Hetaraka and was returned one year later to Cafler Park.

The finished 3 metre high sculpture was installed on Friday 11 February 2000 and blessed before dawn on Saturday 12 February, the first event of ArtBeat 2000.

ArtBeat 2000 was funded by a grant from the Whangarei Disctrict Council.

Text by Desmond Ford