With a combined weight of just over one tonne, Hana is made up of three koru-shaped, chandelier-like installations comprising 11,000 glass and acrylic beads. Each koru is made up of 109 individual strands, some up to four metres in length.

“Hana, which means to illuminate or brighten, was inspired by the Ngāi Tahu creation story and the concept of Ahikā or keeping the home fires burning,” says artist Lonnie Hutchinson. “These illuminated yellow and red beads will combine to draw people into Te Pae Christchurch and help them feel welcome.”

Hana was designed in consultation with Matapopore to integrate into its specific foyer location in Te Pae. Volunteers from the Christchurch Art Gallery were enlisted to help thread the beads onto the wires during the assembly process at Christchurch’s Prometal Industries. Prometal director, John East, says the biggest challenge was ensuring the patterns aligned. “The team spent countless hours selecting the perfect spacers and used turnbuckles to ensure everything was even,” says East. “Hana will be just as visible to people walking along the city promenade as it is inside Te Pae, so it has to be spot on. It’s going to be pretty impressive.”

Ōtākaro Limited - Te Pae Christchurch - Hana - November 2021 from Ōtākaro Limited on Vimeo.

Ōtākaro Chief Executive John Bridgman says that with Te Pae Christchurch so close to completion, it’s already evident that it will be an iconic building for the city. “With the Hana effectively in the front window, it’s going to be a spectacular site, day and night.”

Barring any further disruptions, Te Pae Christchurch will be delivered by Ōtākaro Limited on behalf of the Crown in December and will be hosting its first events in the lead-up to Christmas. Details of the proposed public open day will be shared in the coming weeks.