By WAYNE THOMPSON
A $16 million, high-tech Maori tourism venture is proposed for Bastion Pt on Tamaki Drive.
The joint venture of the Ngati Whatua o Orakei Maori Trust Board and Oceania Attractions has won backing from overseas investors.
The project centres around a fish-shaped building called Te Pa, which Jasmax Architects has designed to fit inside a small valley off the main entrance to Bastion Pt.
The "fish" rises to a height of 17.5m to take equipment that will present visitors with an experience of world standard, said Oceania Attractions chief executive Kim Hegan.
The story of the Maori through time would be told through a mix of 21st century technology and live cultural performance.
Technology included 70mm image projections, 15m by 40m images on "wonderwall" water screens creating life-like depth and colours, coupled with special effects, waka and live performers.
Mr Hegan said an audience of 650 would be at the head of the fish building, the water screen would be at its middle and the tail would hold 450 people for a hangi banquet. The centre would employ between 70 and 100.
Mr Hegan said the joint venture had New Zealand rights to the water screen technology developed by Paris company ECA2, as seen at the opening ceremony for the Sydney Olympics.
The Auckland City Council is processing the resource consent application, but the project also requires approval from the Orakei Reserves Board.
Mayor John Banks described the project as "visionary and outstanding" and one that had exciting prospects for Ngati Whatua and Tourism Auckland.
High-tech showcase of Maori life
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