Part of a series of place-based design interventions that re-invigorate within Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour the lookout’s form and narrative is drawn from a collaborative design process with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei mana whenua mahi toi expert Graham Tipene through the expression of;

‘Taurapa’
An elaborately carved waka sternpost. Positioned vertically at the stern of great waka taua (war canoe). 

‘Matā’
Translates and refers to obsidian and lava. The name Te Waitematā often refers to ‘The Obsidian Waters’ referring to the sparkling or glassy appearance of obsidian (matā) across the harbour. It also refers to Te Mata, a significant rock in Te Waitematā Harbour.

‘Topaki’
To hover (like a bird). Te Mata ‘the headland’ Te Mata Topaki ‘the hovering headland’.

The lookout provides engaging opportunities with the water space of the Viaduct as well as the surrounding Waitematā Harbour. A new landmark and experience. The balustrade is constructed of a layered series of sculptural vertical fins. Each with a unique shape created through a generative design process that together abstract and express the patterns associated with the carving of waka that resonate with this important location.