Skylid, a concrete structure measuring 8m in diameter, is a map of historical waterways.
Skylid, a concrete structure measuring 8m in diameter, is a map of historical waterways.
Auckland train commuters will be greeted downtown by a bold new entrance to Waitematā Station featuring a 31-tonne concrete artwork by a celebrated artist.
The piece, called Skylid, designed by Graham Tipene (Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, Ngāti Kahu, Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Hauā, Ngāti Manu), is a circular structure in front ofthe eastern entrance to the station.
In February 2026, once construction is fully complete, the glass atrium will open into a new square – Waitematā Station Plaza.
Designed in partnership with mana whenua, Skylid features a sand-blasted design depicting the movement of converging waters.
Graham Tipene designed the striking new concrete structure for Waitematā Station Plaza.
Tipene said the artwork, which measured 8m in diameter, was a map of the historical waterways coming together.
“The design talks about the Waihorotiu stream. When the stream meets the harbour, the waters of the harbour have a different behaviour. They have tides, whirlpools and swirls, which you’ll see in the design. The centreline represents the meeting place of these two waters,” Tipene said.
“The long lines talk about the pursuit of excellence and knowledge. The dips in the line-work talk about disruption and how we navigate disruption.”
The two parts of the concrete structure were skilfully crane-lifted into position in September, and the new entrance was blessed last week with a dawn karakia led by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei.
Skylid forms part of the work Auckland Council is doing alongside City Rail Link Ltd to ensure the station’s surrounding streets and spaces are upgraded and ready for the influx of people expected to arrive once the project is complete.
CRL chief executive Pat Brockie told Auckland councillors in a recent meeting that there were cost pressures, but he was confident of staying within the $5.5b funding envelope.
The concrete structure was lifted by crane into its now prominent position.
There have been repeated rail network closures throughout the project, which have caused delays for Auckland commuters.
There is a final summer push lasting a month from December 28, closures over Waitangi weekend, two short closures in February and March and three separate closures between Easter weekend and April 17.
Safety fencing will surround Waitematā Station Plaza until the works wrap up and the area is formally opened, but the central Skylid is now open to the public.
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