The iridescent green, gold and blue hues of a familiar Riverton landmark are shimmering once again to the delight of residents.
A large pāua shell near the east gateway to the town has had a makeover in its new location.
It was privately owned until about five years ago when the Ōraka Aparima Community Board agreed to buy, refurbish it and move it to Kohikohi Park.
After the shift, water entered the structure through cracks in the laminated surface, which caused the paint to lift.
Southland artist and muralist Danny (Deow) Owen was approached by the Southland District Council to restore the shell.
Mr Owen said he aimed to re-create the pāua shell’s shimmer, depth of movement and natural iridescence that made it so special.
‘‘The goal was to make it feel alive again - something that catches your eye as you drive past, that reflects the ocean and the community connected to it.’’
It took him about three weeks to complete the project as it took time to remove the layer where moisture had entered.
Working outside in the Southland weather had been a challenge.
‘‘Getting the gradients and iridescence right also takes patience.
‘‘Pāua isn’t one flat colour, it’s layered and shifting, so the blending process has to be slow and deliberate.’’
He used exterior primers and acrylics for the colour work, and a strong UV-resistant clear coat to protect the finish from the coastal environment.
He enjoyed being part of projects like this.
‘‘I’m passionate about using public art to uplift communities, bring pride to local spaces, and create moments of connection.’’
Southland District councillor Michael Weusten was the Ōraka Aparima Community Board chairman when the process of buying and shifting the sculpture began.
It was good to see positive feedback online for the restored sculpture , Cr Weusten said.
‘‘Our pāua has rightly been restored as the icon for Riverton and Southland.’’
Siting the sculpture in the park meant traffic travelling from both directions could see it but it was far enough away not to be a distraction.
The new position was also far safer than the former site and there was parking.
‘‘It’s quite scenic and a great photo op. People can walk from there to the cafes or the museum.’’
There were also information boards about pāua.
Ōraka Aparima Community Board chairman Robin McCall said he was pleased the project had been completed.
