The Big Salmon, Rakaia

Today we drove from Lake Tekapo to Christchurch Airport. We stopped for a break in Rakaia and had some lunch by the big salmon. Plans for the creation of this sculpture began in 1990 with the idea of paying homage to the Rakaia River and its world class salmon fishery. Commissioned by the local Lions Club, the 11 metre structure was made by sculptor and builder Philip Price from steel, wood and fibreglass. Having taken shape over 18 months in a shed in Christchurch, the big fishy was craned into place in April 1991.

These salmon are descended from Chinook salmon which were introduced to New Zealand in the early 20th century from ova sourced from the McCloud River in California. Today Rakaia and its salmon are a world attraction for anglers. 

Everything I've just told you is from the info boards at the base of the fish. Thank you people of Rakaia for such an informative display. 

Okay, time to go through security. See you on the other side.