Huge warrior statue to dominate Ngaruawahia landscape?

Ngaruawahia could boast one of the western world's largest bronze human statues if plans to build an 8m high Maori warrior can attract enough community funding.

The imposing warrior is the Ngaruawahia Community Board's preferred choice for a "township icon" and a model of the statue has been formed by Wellington sculptor Denis Hall. The statue – part of a wider plan to improve Ngaruawahia's image – would not only completely dwarf Hamilton's Riff Raff, and overshadow Paeroa's L & P bottle, but would also likely become a tourist attraction.

However, board chairman Bryce Sherson stressed it would become a reality only if it was totally externally funded. "No ratepayer money will be going into it," he said.

Cost estimates are not yet available and the work is still at a preliminary stage.

Mr Sherson said Mr Hall was in China having discussions with foundries over the possible supply of bronze.

"There is still much consultation to do with various parties".

Mr Hall's previous work includes Te Kuiti's giant shearer statue.

No decision has been made on where in Ngaruawahia the statue would be situated. "The original thought was to put it where the old railway station was, but I imagine that would be a major concern for the New Zealand Transport Agency, being so close to State Highway 1," Mr Sherson said.

- © Fairfax NZ News