MOSAIC WORK FROM LOCAL SCHOOLS
“There are two things that jump to mind when I think of the Perry Bridge — the colourful green and blue flax pattern the length of the deck and the stunning mosaics on the approaches,” Brian Perry Charitable Trust general manager Jennifer Palmer says.
The mosaics were the brainchild of Simon Perry and were brought to life through local school children’s designs.
“These sit perfectly on the path and tell important and relevant stories about the history of the river and the community’s connection to it,” Ms Palmer says
Students from Nga¯ ruawa¯ hia High School and Horotiu Primary School, guided by Nga¯ ruawa¯ hia artist Tracy Huirama-Osborne, spent several months developing the artwork.
Both schools explored the history and significance of the Waikato River, with the students observing the natural forms they wanted to include in their designs.
Nga¯ ruawa¯ hia High School’s final design included the kowhaiwhai pattern from the school’s wharenui.
Students at Horotiu school voted for their favourite design, with Reese Daniel-Hoani’s drawing of the river current and harakeke (flax) confirmed as the winner.
Ms Palmer said the project has been a true community collaboration and will add to the experience of using the bridge
“The mosaics are a wonderful way for the students to demonstrate their connection to, and appreciation of, their awa.”