The Waiheke Sculpture Walk or Sculpture on the Gulf (SOTG) as it is officially known is set to return in March 2024. The Matiatia Coastal walkway on Waiheke Island will again be transformed into an Art Scape like no other.
The Perpetual Guardian Sculpture on the Gulf
Perpetual Guardian Sculpture on the Gulf is New Zealand’s foremost outdoor sculpture exhibition. It aims to make a unique contribution to the cultural life of New Zealanders and visitors by creating opportunities for people to experience the power and beauty of contemporary sculpture in the landscape.
Enhanced by a magnificent landscape, headland Sculpture on the Gulf is New Zealand’s premier contemporary outdoor sculpture exhibition.
Stunning artworks are displayed along the spectacular 2.5km coastal walkway overlooking Matiatia harbour, the gateway to Waiheke Island. Guided by terrain and place, both highly respected senior and more recently established New Zealand artists aim to transform a two-kilometre section of the headland from Church Bay towards Te Atawhai Whenua Reserve and Matiatia with ambitious and striking artworks.
Gather your people and get ready to walk, play, connect, reflect. Enjoy!
The Waiheke Sculpture Walk – Next Event:
Dates: 24th Feb- 24th March 2024
View the gallery of the last exhibiting artists of 2022 here.
Website: https://sotg.nz/
Sculpture on the Gulf 2024 will again celebrate Aotearoa’s beauty, culture, and artistic expression, built on the values of Kaitiakitanga, Manaakitanga, Mana Toi, Whakatāiri, and Mahitahi. Expect to see dramatic large-scale works in a range of materials, some will be big and bold while others will be quiet and secluded; a few will be playfully architectural, while there may be one or two that might just require a little help from visitors to reach their full potential. Altogether this mix of sculptures will be guaranteed to offer our visitors an exceptional experience of contemporary New Zealand sculpture in an iconic landscape setting.
Walk, talk, connect, and reflect as you encounter site-responsive sculpture up close and personal against a backdrop of magnificent vistas over the Hauraki Gulf on Waiheke Island.
Plan your Art & Nature Experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do we get to Waiheke Island?
How much is the walk?
Entry is $20 (children 15 and under are free).
How do we get to the start of the sculpture walk?
The shuttle bus ride from the Information Centre near the Matiatia wharf, passing through Oneroa village and heading to the beginning of the track, is available for $10 for adults and $5 for children.
The bus departs from the information tent around every 15 minutes. The shuttle and Information Centre operate 8 am–5 pm daily. It is important to note that your sculpture shuttle bus ticket is valid for the day and cannot be used on public transport buses.
You have the option to bundle the return ferry, Sculpture Bus, and entry tickets. These can be purchased here.
Can I bring my dog on the walk?
Yes, you can as long as it is on a lead at all times. The shuttle buses will also permit dogs, yet the driver will exercise discretion, especially during weekends, public holidays, and busy periods.
How long is the sculpture walk?
The walk is around 2.5km, with limited wheelchair and pram access, and is not suitable for bikes. The unsealed track is quite undulating and has several steps up and down.
What do I need to bring?
- Good walking footwear
- Water ( There will be tanks to top your bottle at the start and end of the walk )
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- A bag ( To also take home your rubbish )
Any other tips?
The walk used to be held over the early months of Jan / Feb when it was much hotter. The change to March should bring some cooler days and make the 2km walk a much more pleasant experience, especially considering that there is little shade and seating along the walk.
If you want to avoid crowds it is always advisable to avoid the weekends.
Whilst you are on Waiheke you should check out Oneroa.
