This project grew from work previously undertaken by HBRC and Shannon developing the Hawke’s Bay Regional Parks Network. Waitangi was an under-utilised and generally unloved public space that needed a focus. After being approached by Ātea a Rangi Trust, a vision for the site as an educational facility began to be established. 

 

The main focus of the project was the development of Ātea a Rangi itself, a “star compass” that helps explain the location and movement of the night sky. It centres around 32 carved pou, aligned around a small teaching space – elevated to ensure extensive views to the horizons. Students are taught how to navigate by the stars, and graduate by paddling to the islands!

 

However, the Ātea is only part of the project, which also includes extensive salt marsh inlets that have been designed to provide for whitebait spawning, whilst also providing recreational opportunities. Car parking and interpretative signage provide functionality, and in more recent years a marquee space for use during important cultural celebrations (such as Matariki).