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The Talking Poles Project |
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VISION |
Creation of a unique world icon that inspires and generates community pride, while developing a tourist attraction leading to a sustainable niche industry based on tall sculptures.
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History
Tokoroa’s tall sculptures were first suggested by landscape designer Colleen Priest, as part of concept designs for the Central Business District upgrade for Tokoroa in 1996. At a public meeting in 1997 there was very positive support for the idea of a collection of sculptured poles representing Tokoroa’s many different cultures, clubs and organisations.
Achievements
 Since then, the project has produced 34 Talking Poles in a variety of themes, styles and materials and there are more Poles in the making. The sculptures can be seen mainly around the CBD of Tokoroa and form a trail for tourists to follow. The sculptures have helped to build pride in the town, and are now an established tourist attraction. Many local businesses contributed funds and in-kind support.
The inaugural Pole Art of the World Symposium in March 2004 produced 8 new sculptures in native and exotic timbers by a mix of local, New Zealand and international sculptors. The event attracted around 5000 people to the site over 3 weeks, revitalizing the Talking Poles project and proving the interest and commitment of the community to its future. The following 2006 Symposium produced another 12 beautiful sculptures in timber, stone, steel and concrete.
The first 22 sculptures have been valued at $158,377 (cost price only) by the South Waikato District Council.
 Key Strategies
10-year objectives
- develop the project into an internationally recognized attraction
- develop a plan to offer a range of local and international business and training opportunities around the Talking Poles theme
- continue to develop the number of sculptures – 60+ to achieve critical mass
3-year objectives
- run Pole Art of the World Symposia in 2006 and 2008 as the principle method of generating more sculptures, engaging the public and developing profile. Grow the event each time:
- 12 Poles from the 2006 Symposium (achieved)
- 15 from the 2008 Symposium
- widen the scope of the sculpture themes to include an international flavour
- secure the formal support of key partners
Management Structure
- The Talking Poles will be operating under the umbrella of a charitable trust from this year, with representatives from the community, iwi Raukawa and the South Waikato District Council.
For further information please call:
Sue Arthur, Committee member, ph 07 8836873
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