Ngā Maunga Tū – The Mountains That Stand

Ngā Maunga Tū represents strength, stability, and legacy. Like the mountains that rise from Papatūānuku, this taonga reminds us to stand firm in who we are and where we come from. It speaks to perseverance through challenge, grounding us in whakapapa while urging us to reach for new heights.

The flowing kōwhaiwhai lines mirror the contours of maunga, each curve a reminder that true strength is both steady and graceful. This piece celebrates the balance between resilience and stillness, teaching that we, too, can stand tall through the changing seasons of life.

Artist's Note

Created by Caleb Kutia of Tekotiri Ltd, Ngā Maunga Tū was carved as part of the Te Haerenga (The Journey) collection for Art in the Park 2025. Each form within the kōwhaiwhai pattern reflects the enduring presence of the mountains and the lessons they hold about courage, patience, and whakapapa.

This piece honours the steadfastness of those who came before and reminds us that, like the mountains, we carry strength not only for ourselves but for the generations that will follow.