He Moana Whairepo

The iconic Wellington Boatshed will be transformed into a giant digital canvas, as part of Jim Beam Homegrown Music Festival and summer harbour festivities.

He Moana Whairepo is commissioned by WellingtonNZ. The installation features original work from award-winning Wellington artists Dylan Herkes, Mike Bridgeman, Justin Rotolo, and Kimi Moana Whiting, with sound design from acclaimed composer Paddy Free (Pitch Black, Salmonella Dub), and animation by National Park.

The projection, with two chapters, will take 6-8 minutes in total and will be on a loop.

Chapter 1 - a story of Whairepo Lagoons silent inhabitants
The name Whairepo was submitted to the New Zealand Geographic Board by mana whenua Taranaki Whānui, after being given by (the late) kaumātua Sam Jackson. The Whairepo (eagle rays) that inhabit the lagoon are considered guardians of the area, they visit the water in our warmer months. The name highlights the silent inhabitants of the lagoon and is a reminder of our collective responsibility to the environment. 

Chapter 2 - amplifies the buzz of Jim Beam Homegrown
The Boatshed will transform into soundwaves moving to the rhythm and beats of Jim Beam Homegrown and on other nights to a unique soundtrack by Paddy Free.

Wednesday 18 March – Wednesday 25 March (excluding Friday 20 March).
The projection will run from 8pm-midnight each evening (excluding Fri 20 Mar).