A proposal for a giant kiwi sculpture in Whakatāne is gaining momentum, with the Detroit-based New Zealand artist behind the concept visiting the Eastern Bay to discuss the project.

Robert Onnes was in Whakatāne recently to talk about the concept, creative process and vision for the proposed installation.

He also visited the potential site for the sculpture and an engineering firm, where he said he would need to spend two to three months creating the work.

Originally from New Zealand, Onnes is an experienced sculptor with several large-scale installations in the United States. He also runs a complex of artists’ studios he established in Detroit.

The proposed Whakatāne kiwi would be made from Corten steel, with a potential location in the car park at The Hub, where it would be highly visible to people entering the town.

Onnes’ practice combines technical skills including CAD modelling, precision CNC cutting and MIG welding. Working mainly with steel and copper, he creates large, three-dimensional forms that combine structural strength with sculptural design.

“This would be my 17th kiwi,” he said. “I built my first kiwi in 2006. There is one outside my factory in Detroit.”

The proposed 20-foot sculpture would be a stylised, abstract kiwi constructed from 4-5mm thick Corten steel.

Onnes said the sculpture would represent the archetypal Kiwi male – “head down, bum up. It is introverted and shy.”

Questions were raised during the talk about protecting the sculpture from graffiti and vandalism.

“I have been driving around New Zealand and there are about 14 sculptures along the new motorways, mostly built with Corten steel, and none have been tagged,” he said.

Onnes said working with steel was fulfilling because of the way it allowed him to create sculptures that appeared to be solid forms despite being constructed from sheets of metal.

“I figured out a way of making sculptures with sheets of steel, and all the processes I use and the idea that it looks like a solid chunk of material.”

The appearance of the Corten steel would change over time, developing a darker hue as it weathers.

Onnes expects the proposed project could be completed by 2027, if plans work out.

Eastern Bay artist David Poole, who came up with the idea for a giant kiwi, said it had been a journey to reach this stage, although they still needed to work through issues including consents, confirming the location and raising funds for the project.

Poole said, like the giant gumboot in Taihape and giant carrot in Ohakune, the kiwi could become a distinctive feature for Whakatāne. His vision is for the sculpture to attract visitors while celebrating Eastern Bay identity, enhancing public space and creating opportunities for community engagement and education. “It’ll be big enough so that you can stand beside it and get your photo taken there.”

More examples of Onnes’ work can be seen at onnz.co.nz