At a public meeting in the township earlier this week the waka design was unveiled by Invercargill sculptor Russell Beck to a group of about 50 people.
Owaka Going Forward chairwoman Aileen Clarke said the waka, designed by Mr Beck, would be made of stainless steel and would be about 10m long and 8m high.
Mr Beck had put a lot of time and effort into the design, free of charge, she said.
Estimated to cost between $80,000 and $100,000 - including landscaping underneath the sculpture and lighting - the project will be funded through grants and community fundraising.
The Catlins Historical Society and the Pounawea Camping Ground had each given $1000 to the project, Mrs Clarke said.
The design was well-received, with some residents already coming forward with fundraising ideas, she said.
Clutha District Council Catlins ward councillor Hilary McNab described the meeting as ''very positive'', drawing unanimous support for the waka - its design and location.
''People were really supportive of it.''
It is planned to install the sculpture in the triangle park on the corner of Main Rd and Campbell St near the Owaka Museum.
Cr McNab said the waka design would be on display in the Owaka Museum until Christmas.
Owaka Going Forward was formed as the result of a series of public meetings last year as a representative group for Owaka, and to help enhance the township in preparation for its 150th celebrations in 2016.
Mrs Clarke said the group asked the Clutha District Council to start a reserve management plan process to protect and guide the future development and maintenance of the green spaces in the township.
The plan will look at reserve areas at Owaka, including the recreation reserve (sports ground), Main Rd playground, and areas around Owaka Museum, Owaka Memorial Community Centre, and Owaka Swimming Pool.
The council would consider the first round of submissions in preparing a draft reserve management plan, which would then go out for a further round of public consultation.
The first round of submissions closes at 5pm on December 19. Mrs Clarke said the group encouraged other submissions supporting the plan process, as it would ensure the areas were protected and maintained as the community wanted.
