The National Arboretum Canberra is displaying the world’s largest knitted kiwi as part of its 2018 Warm Trees installation.
The Friends of the Arboretum and the New Zealand High Commission worked together to create the giant bird with a mosaic of colourful scarves.
New Zealand High Commissioner, Chris Seed said the kiwi, whose name is Mahana, meaning warmth, can be seen strolling along the events terrace.
He said the bird is one of dozens of winter woollies that form the Warm Trees installation, with others including crocheted ferns, hand-crafted pohutukawa flowers and, as always, dozens of colourful scarves wrapped around tree trunks.
Mr Seed said he was thrilled to be able to partner with the Friends and National Arboretum in this way.
“It’s not every day you are asked if it is okay to build a giant 20 m x 14 m knitted kiwi at the National Arboretum; this is an exciting opportunity to showcase a little bit of New Zealand at one of Canberra’s leading national attractions,” Mr Seed said.
He said there was also a Matariki display inside the Village Centre.
“Matariki is the celebration of Maori New Year and it is wonderful to be able to share this special time of year for New Zealanders with National Arboretum visitors,” Mr Seed said.
Director of Venues Canberra, Liz Clarke said the partnership showcased New Zealand’s culture and the work of hundreds of knitters from Australia and across the world.
“Warm Trees has evolved to draw inspiration from a different embassy each year and it’s so exciting to be featuring some of New Zealand’s icons this winter,” Ms Clarke said.
The installation will run until 5 August.
