Bronze statue proposed to help Kaimanawa horses

A life-size bronze Kaimanawa horse statue is proposed for central Waiouru on State Highway 1.

Kaimanawa Heritage Horses, a group interested in the welfare and preservation of the wild horses, is seeking community support for erecting a life-size bronze Kaimanawa horse statue in central Waiouru on State Highway 1.

KHH will present their ideas for the statue at the Waimarino-Waiouru Community Board meeting on October 4 and are hoping for a good turnout of Waiouru residents to listen to their proposal.

Ruapehu District Council group manager community services Margaret Hawthorne says both council and the Army are supportive of the project given the community board and the Waiouru community agree and see it as a benefit to the town.

“The project team has identified a suitable site on road reserve opposite the Rangipo St intersection that is just to the north of the Army Museum,” says Margaret.

“We feel that the life-size bronze statue set amongst raised landscaping using boulders and tussock grasses from the area will look amazing and make a really positive contribution to Waiouru’s CBD area.

“The use of bronze with easy-care natural elements from the surrounding area will mean long-term maintenance and costs will be minimal.”

KHH spokesperson Alan Buscke says they’re not asking for any ratepayer money toward cost of the statue or landscaping.

“If the project gets the go-ahead the goal is to raise around $130,000 and we already have a number of fundraising ideas in mind.

“The Kaimanawa horses are already strongly identified with Waiouru and the Desert Rd and the statue will help strengthen this special connection.”

It is envisaged the statue will not only be a great local attraction to give people another reason to stop, but help to raise public awareness and support for the long-term welfare of the wild herd.

Waiouru residents and others interested are welcome to hear KHH’s presentation to the community board.

For more information on KHH’s work, see: kaimanawaheritagehorses.org or our Facebook page.


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