The Heritage Fountain, near Napier's i-site, Marine Parade, Napier, Hawke's BAy, New Zealand. - Fountains on Waymarking.com

The plaque near this fountain reads:

                       This sculptured water feature
                           THE HERITAGE FOUNTAIN
                          (Nga Puna Wai Whakapapa)
                                was designed
                   and constructed by noted Napier Artist
                               PARA  MATCHITT
               It was commissioned by the Napier City Council
                  on 17 December 1996, funded by a Bequest
                   from the estate of Mabel Lea Sanderson.

There are many different features on this fountain which are, as is usual with abstract works of art, open to interpretation. Generally they draw on the region's features highlighting their importance to the city and Hawke's Bay.

Gannets reflect Cape Kidnappers' significance as the world's largest mainland colony of gannets.

Fish at the base of the fountain allude to the importance of the fishing industry to the local economy and to the pastime of fishing enjoyed by locals.

The star symbol points towards our position in the southern hemisphere under the Southern Cross.

The jagged motif near the apex depicts the ranges that adjoin Hawke's Bay - the Kawekas and, further south, the Ruahines.

A heart symbol shows the pride people of Napier take in their city. It also symbolises the love and regard people have for Hawke's Bay and the many positives that the region offers its people.

The wave/water symbol underscores Hawke's Bay's coastal location.

This interpretation is taken from the City's web site at: Heritage Fountain

One of the gannets bears the artist's name and commission date.

Web Link: [Web Link]

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Recent Visits/Logs:

Date Logged Log User Rating   02/15/2015 Punga and Paua visited it