Millennium Tree

This morning on my way through the Auckland Domain, I went past this sculpture, and for the first time the light was ideal for taking a picture of it. The lights which pick out aspects of the sculpture were still on and their effects visible. And the day was old enough for sufficient ambient light to allow for an effective photograph. My previous attempts have been plagued by it being too dark or too light.

The Millennium Tree was created by Wellington artist Guy Ngan on a commission from funds provided to the Auckland City Council by the Chinese Society as a gift to celebrate the contribution Chinese have made in New Zealand since the 1860s.

Guy Ngan says that the 6.5 m tall sculpture was inspired by the wand of the Monkey King of Chinese legend, and he was very happy with its placement here beneath large Phoenix palms, which are reflected in the stainless steel structure. The structure was unveiled by the then Governor General of New Zealand, Dame Sylvia Cartwright, on 01 November 2005.

A year earlier, residents of neighbouring Parnell had successfully prevented the sculpture being placed in the Parnell Rose Gardens, on the basis that it was out of keeping with the Victorian Heritage of the gardens.

I note its presence as I go past and am pleased to learn a little more about it for this blip.