Sculpture back after wee break

Chris Carey, left, watches the artwork being re-installed at the Town Basin sculpture park. Photo/John Stone.

A sculpture depicting the Maori legend of Whangarei's founding sisters has been returned to its site beside the Hatea River after being bowled over in an act of vandalism.

The burnished black carving, one of two upright waka/whale-shaped statues with the heads of legendary women Reitu and Reipae was broken off at its base early last month. It is thought the work made by sculptor John Ioane toppled when someone tried to climb it. The only damage caused was at the point where the sculpture was set in the ground.

"Luckily the damage was minimal, and not to the sculptures," said Chris Carey, from Culture Heritage Arts Resource Trust.

"I was amazed how many people were firstly saddened by the event then so pleased to see it come back. They [the Town Basin sculptures] really have become important to many people."