Created by artists Lissy (Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Kahu) and Rudi Robinson-Cole (Taranaki, Ngāti Pāoa, Waikato, Ngāti Tahu/Ngāti Whaoa), the wharenui was crocheted with vibrant neon wool and merges traditional Māori practices with modern technology, bringing joy, colour and connection to Aotearoa.
Presented by Auckland Live in collaboration with Lissy and Rudi, Wharenui Harikoa is a fully immersive, multi-sensory experience. SBN Impact Investors (members), Māia, are proud to be supporting with this kaupapa.
Visitors are welcomed by karanga, drawn into the heart of the whare via a shifting soundscape created with taonga puoro artist Libby Gray (Ngāti Rēhia, Ngāti Uepōhatu, Tama Ūpoko Ki Te Awa o Wanganui Me Ngāti Tūwharetoaanō Hoki) and musician Rewi McClay (Ngati Hine, Ngati Kahu). Lighting transitions from warm tones to pulses of fluro, guiding guests from the physical into the wairua realm.
The whare welcomes all visitors, children and kaumātua to experience the aroha of Wharenui Harikoa.