The Heritage Fountain, near Napier's i-site, Marine Parade, Napier, Hawke's BAy, New Zealand.
Posted by: greysman
S 39° 29.422 E 176° 55.170
60H E 493077 N 5628801
The Heritage Fountain contains various features which draw on the region's features.
Waymark Code: WMH4QH
Location: North Island, New Zealand
Date Posted: 05/22/2013
Views: 3
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.