It takes a village, or in this case, a peninsula, to bring to life one of Aotearoa’s most beloved outdoor art events. When NZ Sculpture OnShore opens at Operetu Fort Takapuna Historic Reserve next month, it will do so with the help of hundreds of locals – sculptors, volunteers, students and supporters – whose passion and effort make the biennial event possible.
"At its heart," says general manager Dee Paranihi, "NZ Sculpture OnShore is a community celebration with purpose.
"Our kaupapa is built on three pillars: cause, community, and amplifying the work of Aotearoa artists,” Dee adds. “We exist to support artists, to raise funds for Women’s Refuge, and to bring our community together in a way that uplifts everyone involved.”
Local roots run deep
First held in 1996 in the private garden of David and Genevieve Becroft on the shores of Lake Pupuke, NZ Sculpture OnShore quickly outgrew its original home. By 2004, the exhibition had moved to Operetu Fort Takapuna, where it has since flourished against the stunning backdrop of the Hauraki Gulf.
The historic site’s significance is not lost on organisers. Settlement at Operetu dates back to the 13th or 14th century and the headland was once home to the Tāmaki Māori ancestor Peretū, from whom the site takes its name.
“We feel privileged and immensely grateful to local iwi and the Department of Conservation for allowing us to be temporary custodians of this culturally significant place every two years,” Dee says. “It’s an honour to share this land and its stories with thousands of visitors.”
This year’s exhibition features over 120 sculptures by artists from across Aotearoa, including several from the Devonport peninsula and the wider North Shore – among them Helen Pollock, Debbie Barber, Merle Bishop and Brianna Parkinson.
Powered by volunteers
Behind the beauty of the artworks and the sweeping sea views are more than 400 volunteers, most of them local residents. They help with ticketing, guiding visitors, supporting art sales, and ensuring everything runs safely and smoothly.
“Volunteers are the lifeblood of NZ Sculpture OnShore,” says Dee. “This event simply wouldn’t happen without them. Their generosity, good humour and hard work bring everything to life.”
That community spirit extends to the event’s small staff team and to the Friends of Women’s Refuges Trust, whose members are all local women dedicating hundreds of volunteer hours to ensure the exhibition’s success.
Supporting a life-changing cause
Since its inception, NZ Sculpture OnShore has raised more than $2.6 million for Women’s Refuge NZ, supporting women and children to rebuild their lives after domestic violence. It remains the organisation’s largest public fundraising event.
Funds raised from this year’s exhibition will go directly to the Sievwright Fund, which provides emergency financial and material support for women and children in crisis, and to Women’s Refuge Counselling Services.
“Every sculpture sold, every ticket purchased, and every volunteer hour contributes directly to helping women and children in need,” says Dee. “It’s art with real impact – and our community makes that possible.”
Inspiring art by students
Community involvement also shines through the Auckland Schools Exhibition, held in the underground fort and connecting tunnels – one of the rare occasions the public can access these historic sites.
This year, a record 20 primary, intermediate and secondary schools are taking part, creating collaborative works that reflect the theme of connection and creativity. Among the highlights is Ngā Mata Pūrakau – The Faces of Legends, a striking mask-making project inspired by the stories of Māui.
Over two days in the Vauxhall School hall, Year 9 students from Takapuna Grammar mentored younger tamariki from Devonport, Bayswater, Vauxhall, Stanley Bay, and Belmont primary schools to create fluorescent masks from recycled cardboard. The stunning artworks will be illuminated by UV light in the fort’s tunnels during the exhibition.
“It’s a beautiful example of our young people stepping up as creative leaders,” Dee says. “You see tuākana–tēina in action – older students guiding the younger ones, everyone learning from each other, and their collective effort producing something really special.”
A community legacy
From the artists who create and the volunteers who give their time, to the school children crafting their first sculptures, NZ Sculpture OnShore is, in every sense, a community endeavour.
“It’s our local people who make this event sing,” Dee reflects. “Their creativity, their connection to this place, and their willingness to give back are what make NZ Sculpture OnShore more than just an exhibition – it’s a shared legacy.
“Come and spend a day of awe and wonder,” Dee says with a smile. “You’ll see extraordinary art, enjoy one of the most beautiful settings right here on our doorstep, and know that you’re helping change lives. That’s pretty special.”
NZ Sculpture OnShore runs from 8 to 23 November at Operetu Fort Takapuna Historic Reserve, Devonport.
Tickets are available now at nzsculptureonshore.co.nz
