Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about Whale Song.
Clear answers about the sculpture, location, funding, staged delivery, environmental purpose and ways to take part.
What is Whale Song?
Whale Song is a family pod of seven life-sized bronze humpback whales planned as a major public sculpture and cultural, environmental, educational and visitor destination for Kāpiti.
Where will Whale Song be located?
Whale Song is planned as the centrepiece of a new central park and wetland destination adjacent to the refreshed Paraparaumu Town Centre on the Kāpiti Coast.
Will ratepayers fund Whale Song?
No ratepayer funds will be used for the project. Whale Song is being funded through sponsorship, philanthropy, fundraising, donations and professional support provided in kind.
How will Whale Song be delivered?
Stage One will deliver Kaitiaki, Piripoho, Manaaki and Kaha Taua, together with foundations for all seven whales. Stage Two will complete Atawhai, Hinemoana and Mataara.
How much support has been secured?
More than $1.3 million has been raised and committed toward Whale Song. The current funding position is maintained on the Support page.
Will Whale Song be free to visit?
The public sculpture and park are intended to be free to visit. Optional paid digital, immersive or enhanced visitor experiences may be developed separately.
Why are there seven whales?
The seven whales form a family pod and create a balanced odd-number composition. Seven also carries broad symbolic meaning across stories, nature and human culture. Read more on the Seven Whales page.
What is the environmental purpose of Whale Song?
Whale Song links the health of streams, wetlands and oceans, using the message that every drain leads to the sea to support marine and environmental education.
Who is leading the project?
The Whale Song Pakake Waiata Charitable Trust leads the project with trustees, an executive team, cultural partnership, community support and specialist professional contributors. Meet them on the Leadership page.
How can I support Whale Song?
You can donate securely online, discuss sponsorship or philanthropy, support the book fundraiser, join the mailing list or contribute professional help. Visit the Support page.